Scientists develop a glass that dissolves harmlessly in the body and activates calcium-producing genes
Posted 06.05.2008 at 1:36 pm
1 Comment
Bone Cells Growing on the Bioactive Glass
Imperial College
Vitamins may soon be a thing of the past. Researchers at Imperial College have developed a new type of glass that dissolves harmlessly in the body and promotes calcium growth. As the bioactive material dissipates, it releases silica and calcium ions into the body. If released at the correct rate, these can activate genes responsible for producing calcium—a near-panacea for an otherwise healthy aging body.
Though used previously in clinical trials, the mechanism behind the material wasn't well known. Now, using neutron diffraction, scientists can see how the material releases calcium at the needed rate at the atomic level. For the next round of research, the scientists are hoping to develop a stronger version of the glass that could be used in joint replacements to promote bone re-growth in a way ordinary replacements can't.
Via PhysOrg
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This sounds like an outstanding breakthrough and it (if procured) could have amazing applications. One question is when the glass disolves will it disolve unevenly creating shards or smaller peices? Then again clinical studies are yet to come so we will see wont we :)
~Taio~