In the orthopaedic research lab studies are carried out at several levels, ranging from cultures of adult stem cells isolated from blood and bone marrow, chondrocytes and conventional cell lines, to in vivo models of the rat, rabbit and goat.
For analysis, a wide array of techniques is applied. By origin a histology lab, there is a longstanding experience with hard tissue histology and histomorphometry and paraffin histology. In addition histology of frozen tissues, EM and FACS analysis are performed. Several immunolocalisation procedures have been set up for the characterisation of both bone and cartilage tissue generated in vivo or in vitro, employing DAB staining or fluorescence (either or not by confocal laser scanning microscopy). Biochemical assays include Western Blotting, protein array, multiplex ELISA and zymography. Molecular techniques include (semi-)quantitative PCR, in situ hybridisation, genetic labelling (luciferase, LNGFR) and RNAi. A relatively new technique used in tissue engineering is organ/tissue printing, for which a recently developed Bioscaffolder is installed.
As the basis for the research lines in the lab is provided by distinct clinical problems and issues, at all times there is a clear connection between the work performed in the lab, even at molecular level, and the patient. To further ensure fruitful cross-contamination, work meetings are always attended by both fundamental and clinical investigators