Bone regeneration with bone mimic material and a growth stimulator

OSMeRNA is a four-year public–private research project that brings together the MERLN Institute at Maastricht University and Kuros Biosciences BV to develop a new therapy for difficult-to-heal bone fractures. The project combines academic expertise in regenerative medicine with industrial know-how in bone graft materials. By integrating advanced biomaterials with messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, this collaboration aims to create an innovative treatment that actively stimulates the body’s own bone regeneration processes and supports future clinical and commercial use.

Bone fractures are very common, but around 10% of fractures fail to heal properly, leading to long-term pain, disability, and repeated surgeries. Worldwide, hundreds of millions of fractures occur each year, and the problem is expected to grow due to ageing populations and osteoporosis. Non-healing fractures place a heavy burden on patients and healthcare systems, as treatment costs can be three times higher than those of uncomplicated fractures. Current treatments often have limitations, such as limited effectiveness, side effects, or poor availability, highlighting the urgent need for better and safer solutions.

The OSMeRNA project introduces a new approach by combining a synthetic bone graft with chemically modified messenger RNA (cmRNA). This cmRNA carries instructions for cells to produce a natural bone-inducing protein directly at the fracture site. The bone graft material is designed to interact with the immune system and slowly release the cmRNA, ensuring a controlled and effective healing response. The approach will be tested in laboratory models and in a clinically relevant animal model to closely mimic real fracture healing.

OSMeRNA will deliver a final dossier that could be presented to the authorities for further market introduction.