Gov't program developed 27 biomaterials since 2006 - MOST
Shanghai. June 17. INTERFAX-CHINA - China's national biomaterials research program for the 11th Five-Year Plan period (2006-2010) helped develop 27 proprietary biomaterials for orthopedic, dental and ophthalmic use, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) announced on June 17.
The program, initiated by MOST and the Ministry of Education (MOE), received central government funding of RMB 30 million ($4.64 million), the announcement said. Total investment in projects under the scheme amounted to RMB 60 million ($9.27 million).
Production lines have already been set up for 14 products developed under the program. Six of these have received production approval, including a calcium phosphate coating for artificial joints, an artificial bone repair material, and a rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens - a lens that helps oxygen transmission to the eye.
Meanwhile, eight of the products are still undergoing clinical trials.
Participants in the program included Peking University, South China University of Technology, the Affiliated Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical College, Shanghai Rebone Biomaterials Co. Ltd. and Beijing Allgens Medical Science Technology Co. Ltd.
- KZ