Innovation in Regenerative Medicine Showcased at Leeds

Some of the latest research using regenerative medicine took centre stage at Leeds University last month, as delegates attending the Regener8 Annual Conference (Sept 17) heard expert speakers cover topics ranging from therapies for dental care, scaffold structures for cardiac repair and bio-cements for bone regeneration. The conference, hosted by the University - which also works in partnership with the Medical Technologies IKC  - attracted leading academics, industry and clinicians. It focused on pathways that will nurture innovation in regenerative medicine and how academic research could be translated into products for use by clinicians and patients. Currently being used to treat conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, bone fractures and wound management, regenerative medicine (‘RegenMed’) is one of the ‘Eight Great Technologies’ highlighted by the Government as priorities for investment.

Professor John Fisher, Regener8 Executive Director and Director of the Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering, University of Leeds, said: “This is a very exciting time for regenerative medicine and the UK is at the forefront of developing regenerative therapies – much of it underpinned by the partnerships that exist between academics and industry. UK companies are succeeding in commercialising therapies and an increasingly joined-up community in the UK is helping to bring this about.”

Kevin Baughan, Director of Technology and Innovation at the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK said: “These are demanding times for the healthcare sector as they seek both greater efficiency and effectiveness. The opportunities created by scientific breakthroughs in regenerative medicine from the UK’s world class research base, put us in a unique position to lead the world in this transformative approach to healthcare.

“As the UK's innovation agency, we look forward to continuing our partnership with business and academia in supporting those breakthroughs on their journey through to commercial viability and ultimately success on the global stage.”