PALERMO (ITALPRESS) – Reconstructing bone and cartilage from stem cells. In the Bioplast research laboratory located within the Institute of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Policlinico “Paolo Giaccone” in Palermo, several regenerative medicine research projects based on the study of stem cells obtained from fat samples are underway. Adipose tissue represents the main source of mesenchymal stem cells for clinical and experimental use because it can be harvested in large quantities without leaving outcomes. Recent projects include the introduction of an innovative technology called organ-on-chip (OoC), which offers new opportunities for scientific research, pharmaceutical development, and personalized medicine. These systems are designed to replicate the specific functions of human organs on a small scale, enabling three-dimensional (3D) culture of cells and tissues in a dynamic environment, with the goal of using them in clinical settings for bone and cartilage reconstruction. “The BIOPLAST laboratory,” says Adriana Cordova, Director of the Operative Unit of Plastic Surgery as well as of the Surgical Department of the University Hospitals Company, “is our flagship. In fact, it is the only laboratory that communicates directly with the operating room, representing the perfect integration between surgical care and research activities, and we expect to have tangible results soon in the production of tissue substitutes, cartilage and bone. “The innovation of this system lies in its ability to replicate the human physiological environment, allowing the control of various mechanical stimuli, biochemical gradients, tissue interactions and other microenvironmental conditions. While simpler than the complexity of real organs and tissues, these systems are able to reproduce specific human physiological and pathological states.AOUP Director General Maria Grazia Furnari comments, “This project represents a fundamental step in our mission to improve people’s health and well-being through scientific innovation. Stem cells, with their unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, offer extraordinary therapeutic potential. I congratulate Professor Cordova and all the researchers at the BIOPLAST Laboratory in the belief that the results of their research will have a profound impact, not only in the improvement of existing therapies, but also in the development of new approaches. “In the Laboratory’s research alongside Professor Cordova are Professor Franz Moschella, biologist Barbara Di Stefano, doctoral student Mara Franza and biologist intern Marco Trapani.-photo press office Policlinico Palermo-(ITALPRESS).
