Innovative thinking and success in its translation to practical application are hallmarks of the contribution to medical science by Professor Minghao Zheng (UWA Medical School and Perron Institute).
Exploring the potential to use sustainably certified mother of pearl (nacre) to support new bone formation is among the most exciting projects in his outstanding track record of ground-breaking research and its translation to benefit health outcomes.
Professor Zheng said the research shows Perron Institute’s commitment to biomedical research and education in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.
In collaboration with UWA, new WA biotech company Marine Biomedical intends to develop medical products and devices including PearlBone from marine resources such as nacre which are sustainably certified.
Co-inventor Professor Zheng has devoted many years to the development of the product and said its potential for orthopaedic applications could not be overstated.
“Our work has proven that PearlBone substantially supports the process of new bone formation, compared to other synthetic bone substitutes in the market.
“The results to date are very encouraging. Through PearlBone, there is a revolutionary opportunity to use the process of marine biomineralisation in place of traditional devices in orthopaedic, trauma and reconstructive surgical applications.”
Professor Zheng is head of Brain and Bone Research at the Perron Institute and Winthrop Professor of Orthopaedic Research at The University of Western Australia.
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