Sep 22 2003
Spire Corp have won a $400,000 grant from the National Institute of Health, NIH, to develop a new family of smart nanophase ceramic coatings that will enhance osseointegration and implant fixation for orthopaedic implants.
Spire’s nanophase hydroxyapatite coatings are modified to selectively encourage hard tissue growth on implants whilst at the same time discouraging soft tissue growth, which can lead to less than optimal performance.
These coatings are aimed at being used in conjunction with metallic implants, such as those used in hip and knee replacements.
This grant constitutes Phase I and is part of the NIH’s nanotechnology initiative and could lead to Phase II funding, which could result in grants totaling $1.2 million.
For more information on hydroxyapatite, click here.