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Whitaker International Fellow, 2008-09
Home Institution: Duke University
Host Country, Institution: The Netherlands, Eindhoven University of Technology
Project Title: Development of Artificial Nulcleous Pulposus System to Simulate the Inter-Vertebral Disc
Project Abstract:
Disc degeneration is a medical ailment faced by many patients. A lot of research has been performed to determine methods to stop the degenerative process or to regenerate the disc. In order to regenerate an inter-vertebral disc, it is necessary to fully understand the cellular processes of the disc. The goal of this project will be to develop and characterize a system to culture nucleus pulposus tissue of the disc to simulate the environment of the inter-vertebral discs and spinal vertebrae so that an artificial inter-vertebral disc can be developed.