Synthetic materials for real injuries

Recently, scientists from McGill University have combined a knowledge of chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering to develop a biomaterial that is tough enough to repair the heart, muscles, and vocal cords, representing a major advancement in regenerative medicine.

This breakthrough is especially promising for those recovering from heart damage, who often face challenges with healing due to the constant movement tissues withstand as the heart beats. Until now, no injectable materials existed that were durable enough for the job.

The team at McGill has developed a new injectable hydrogel, a type of biomaterial providing room for cells to live and grow, for wound repair.

Early results are promising and the research team is excited for potential clinical benefits, such as restoring the voice of laryngeal cancer survivors with damaged vocal cords. The innovation brought forth with biomaterials is exciting and we're looking forward to seeing next steps in the research, as well as broader applications in the future.

- Bayley