Functionalized hydrogels presenting simultaneously β1-integrin selective ligands and bone morphogenic protein 6 to stimulate osteoblast function and induce myeloma cell apoptosis ((08) M09)

• Subject Area: Biomaterials ; Orthopaedics, Traumatology, Reconstructive Surgery
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 107540325

Aim of project M9 is the development of materials for the use in osteolytic lesions which is able to effectively stimulate osteoblast precursor cells (osteoanabolic axis) and to inhibit osteoclastogenesis aiming at a net increase in bone mass within the defect. In parallel, myeloma cells are attracted and apoptosis is induced in terms of a local treatment of a residual myeloma cell population (minimal residual disease) in the defect. In detail our aims are i) the manufacturing of functionalized hydrogels and ii) their investigation in vitro regarding their impact on cellular functions. Functionalization is implemented via covalent binding of molecules of the extracellular matrix as well as simultaneously either BMP-2 or BMP-6 homodimer compared to the heterodimer; to enhance the biologic activity, antibodies against BMP-antagonists are evaluated (anti-sclerostin).

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 79: Materials for Tissue Regeneration within Systemically Altered Bone
• Applicant Institution: Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Elisabetta Ada Cavalcanti-Adam; Dr. Anja Seckinger