And on the Running theme, anyone who’s had a joint issue for whatever reason, can attest to how hard it is to get back on your feet.
Well, buck up little camper, Because: Science!
By synthesizing a new combination-gel that unites two different types, that then absorb calcium molecules,
Scientists at Harvard have come up with what they think might be a pretty good Replacement for Cartilage.
The jury is still out on how well it can be formed at-thickness, how it would be affixed to the site in-question, and if the body would reject, encapsulate, or integrate it.
-The material already seems to stretch so much, that it probably has some shock-absorption properties built-in. Another fantastic property, is that it also has some degree of “self-healing” properties, also.
Anyway: Older Runners, REJOICE!
-Just heed the advice of the other scientists and don’t kill yourself with your brand new knees.
Head over to the links for more details.
Image/Video Credits:
Photo, “Blue Gel Macro 1”, by Nicolas Raymond, freestock.ca
Video, “Hydrogel_Final”, by Jeong-Yun Sun, Harvard SEAS
JUMP BONUS!: Demo Vid!
Links:
• Source Study: Nature-Highly stretchable and tough hydrogels
• via: HarvardSEAS-Tough gel stretches to 21 times its length, recoils, and heals itself
• More Coverage: Gizmag-Hydrogel Cartilage
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