Overview
We are investigating and developing as part of a consortium a novel microfluidic flow cytometer with integrated impedance measurement for the precise and sensitive marker-free detection and sorting of Nucleus Pulposus Progenitor Cells (NPPC) from a cell sample of the intervertebral disc. Our approach harnesses the full potential of the interaction of the electric field with the cell, combined with the power of machine learning, and results can be transferred for the marker-free detection of rare cells in other applications.
The project will, for a novel cell-based therapy of intervertebral discs, (i) investigate the regenerative potential of nucleus pulposus progenitor cells (NPPCs) from the IVD and (ii) explore a new marker-free method based on impedance cytometry for isolation of NPPCs that preserves the biological integrity of NPPCs and does not need expensive clinical-grade antibodies.
Over 88% of the Swiss population is affected by low back pain and approximately 10% of affected individuals develop chronic symptoms. Reason for low back pain is degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD), whose water content and height decreases with age. Degeneration of the IVD is one of the main causes of developing disabilities and causes significant medical costs, as well as economic and social burdens on society. Current treatments cannot restore the tissue and surgical procedures may be needed, resulting in limitation of the spinal flexibility.
Patients will benefit from a novel minimally invasive therapy that can preserve full spinal flexibility and maintain quality of life.
