Patent ID: 7625562
Filing Date: 2009-12-01
Classification: A61K,A61P,B82Y,Y10S

Abstract:
1. An in vitro method for the generation of cartilage tissue from mammalian chondrocyte progenitor cells expressing mechanosensitive TWIK-related potassium (TREK) ion channels, the method comprising: (i) providing mammalian chondrocyte progenitor cells in culture in vitro, wherein the cells express mechanosensitive TREK ion channels; (ii) providing magnetizable particles comprising a magnetic core and biocompatible coating, wherein the magnetizable particles are tagged with one or more antibodies specific for said TREK ion channels; (iii) contacting said cells with said magnetizable particles and allowing the magnetizable particles to couple with said TREK ion channels; (iv) applying a magnetic field to said cells, the magnetic field thereby applying mechanical force to said magnetizable particles; the method thereby generating cartilage tissue.