Associate Professor Indira Prasadam and Professor Ross Crawford
are tackling osteoarthritis by developing cell-based therapies that aim to repair joint tissues, rather than just relieve pain. Osteoarthritis is one of the world’s leading causes of chronic pain and disability, costing Australia an estimated AUD23 billion each year in healthcare and lost productivity. To create truly effective treatments, the researchers are targeting the complex cellular “conversations” that occur between different tissues within a joint. Their team is investigating whether concentrated substances naturally released by stem cells – collectively called the secretome or “stem-cell juice” – can stimulate tissue repair and reduce inflammation. The secretome comes in several forms: some rich in proteins, others in lipids, and some packed with tiny particles known as exosomes. The team is testing which formulation best promotes cartilage repair and joint regeneration, paving the way for next-generation, non-cell-based treatments for osteoarthritis.
Find A/Prof Prasadam’s QUT Academic Profile here.
Find Prof Crawford’s QUT Academic Profile here.
Read and download the Advanced Biomaterials Capability Statement
