Israeli biotech company successful in growing and regenerating bones

Scientists from the Israeli biotechnology company Bonus BioGroup have entered the second phase of a clinical study in which they are attempting to grow bones in the laboratory, reports Times of Israel.

The first phase, which began four years ago, was successfully completed, involving 32 patients.

>>>Scientists mastered the creation of human eggs

The process of growing bones first begins with liposuction of fat cells from the body, some of which are isolated. The isolated cells are then developed in a bioreactor, an artificial simulation of the human body. After two weeks, new bone tailored to the patient’s needs is injected back into the patient’s body in the form of thousands of small bone particles called BonoFill.

Bone can strengthen and grow along with the patient, especially when it comes to the regeneration of children’s bones. Older patients, as well as those suffering from osteoporosis, infections, cancer, or traumatic injuries, could receive new bones up to seven times stronger than the original. A cleft palate, which is currently treated through a series of surgeries over several years, could be healed with the new method in early childhood.

From Bonus BioGroup, it is estimated that the procedure, when and if hospitals begin to use it, will cost less than the current bone regrowth treatment, which can cost up to $90,000.

>>>Revolutionary nanotechnology heals wounds and regenerates organs

In the second phase of the research, scientists will perform more than 60 surgeries on two groups of patients, cranial and orthopedic. The team of scientists expects that the method, after the testing phase is completed, will receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and become common in the next three to four years.

In the next phase, the team’s focus will be on regenerating fat and cartilage, with the goal of creating “spare parts” for people to treat knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows. Fat regeneration could allow for the replacement of silicone in breast implants with actual fats from the human body.

>>>Genetic engineering: Scientists have ‘reprogrammed’ DNA within the human body for the first time

One of the first patients in the study was a 28-year-old man who lost the bone in his arm in a traffic accident, and there are 14 patients on the waiting list for treatment.

Bonus BioGroup employs 40 people and has raised investments totaling $20 million.