Exponent has the expertise needed to address the unique challenges of developing and assessing therapies and devices used to heal and stabilize diseased and injured musculoskeletal tissues. We are experienced in the basic, preclinical, and translational aspects of musculoskeletal tissue repair and regeneration. This work includes design and optimization of research protocols; assessment of tissues at the molecular, cellular, and structural level; and assessment of construct performance and failure. A comprehensive understanding of the biological, biochemical, structural, and biomechanical characteristics of hard and soft tissues (bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament) is a critical factor that underlies our expertise.
Some aspects of development to consider in musculoskeletal tissue repair and regeneration include cell type, stability and phenotype, choice of scaffold, mechanical input, biodegradation characteristics, optimal preclinical models, and ultimately, quantitative outcome measures to demonstrate restoration of tissue to native function. We use a multi-faceted approach to assist in some or all of these aspects of development and assessment, from initiation to product validation. In vitro and in vivo assessment of the repair process is critical to demonstrate product purity and efficacy. We use traditional, gold-standard methods, such as histology and mechanical testing, combined with more sophisticated modalities, such as vibrational spectroscopy or MRI, to assess tissue repair and biomaterial molecular properties.
Specific capabilities include:
- Pre-clinical model development
- Cell culture within 2D and 3D environments
- Cell migration assays
- Cell phenotype and response characterization
- Cytotoxicity assays
- Gene expression
- Tissue phenotype assessment
- Toxicity assessment
- Microfluidic and microscale systems development
- Biomaterials characterization
- Morphology, pore size, chemical composition, mechanics
- Assessment of biomaterial/tissue integration
- Assesment of impact of biologics on device or materials
- Biologic and biomaterial degradation profiling
- Biophysical property measurements
- Mineralization characterization
- Purity characterization
- Device performance
Our proficiencies in core technologies include microscopy (light, confocal, fluorescence, SEM), histology and immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, digital imaging, materials and device mechanical testing, micro CT, and spectroscopy and spectroscopic imaging (mid and near infrared and Raman).