Research boost for the ageing

QUEENSLAND Government funding of $300,000 has supported the establishment of a joint Queensland-china research centre using 3D printing technology to repair ageing body parts.

The Queensland University of Technology-led Joint Research Centre for the Development of Functional Biomaterials in Advanced Manufacturing of Human Tissues and Organs will boost collaboration between leading scientists and industries in Queensland and Shanghai in tissue and human organ engineering.

Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the new centre was developed to address the common challenges faced by both countries’ ageing populations.

“With increasing numbers of older people needing care, our health systems will be put under enormous pressure,” she said. “By accelerating research in this important field, we can improve the quality of life for all of us as we get older, reducing the burden off our healthcare systems.

“The centre will focus on living tissue replacements to restore the functions of damaged tissues and organs in the treatment of bone and joint disorders, including osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, fractures and soft tissue trauma.

“The market for the printing of biomaterials to either repair damaged tissues and organs or even replace them is expected grow substantially over the next few years.”

A biomaterial is a biological or synthetic substance that can be introduced into body tissue as part of an implanted medical device or used to replace an organ. The world market for biomaterials is expected to almost double by 2024 to $US207 billion.