The VUTURE project is developing a bone-on-chip model to study bone fractures, non-union healing, and test potential therapies.
Bone fractures healed on a chip
Every year, around 17,500 bone fractures result in inadequate or slow healing, leading to 'non-union' fractures that often require surgical intervention. In this procedure, the surgeon removes soft tissue and stabilises the bone fragments, but this approach doesn’t always ensure full healing. Therefore, research into healing processes and new treatment strategies is essential.
In 2022, research groups from VU Amsterdam and the UT launched the VUTURE consortium to develop a bone-on-chip model to simulate bone fractures and non-union healing. This innovative model will allow researchers to study bone regeneration mechanisms and test potential therapies. The system features two bone fragments with a central defect, covered by a membrane. Researchers can modify the environment within the model to see how different factors influence healing. The project is integrated into the curricula of both universities and offers opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to participate in internships.
Researchers involved
Nathalie Bravenboer (Contact)
Liliana Moreira Teixeira Leijten