i-DISC

Rejuvenation of the Intervertebral Disc Using Self-Healing Biomimetic Extracellular Matrix Biomaterial Tissue Adhesives

i-DISC will develop injectable biomimetic hydrogel systems for the lower back that aim to halt degeneration and restore natural biomechanical function through minimally invasive spine treatment strategies.

This will accelerate research in developing new strategies in treating disc degeneration, offering new hope and insights for patients suffering from back pain.  This research opens new horizons in minimally invasive spine treatment strategies but also has the potential to enhance patient quality of life, reduce healthcare expenses, and minimise lost productivity throughout the European Union.

iDISC will receive the funding over an 18-month period to progress biomechanical testing, pre-clinical evaluation, and marketing and commercialisation evaluation.

The project start date is 1st April 2024 with a budget of €150,000. This is an ERC Proof of Concept grant to Conor Buckley.

Project (group) website: https://www.buckleylab.eu/

AMBER Researcher & Coordinator: PI Connor Buckley, TCD