Bacteria-Based Fibers May Revolutionize Bone Healing, Says Borås Ph.D. Thesis
Can bones heal without using grafts from another part of the body? A new doctoral thesis from the University of Borås, Sweden, sheds light on a novel approach—using bacteria-produced fibers to support bone regeneration.
Sabrina Kopf, who recently earned her Ph.D. in Polymer Technology, explored polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA)—biodegradable plastics produced by bacteria. Her research focused on developing textile structures from these PHA fibers that can support healing in cases of large bone defects.
“Bone cells need a scaffold to attach to. By incorporating calcium phosphate, which bone cells recognize, into the fibers, we created a surface conducive to healing,” Kopf explained.
The process wasn’t simple. PHA had to be melted and extruded—like making spaghetti—into fibers strong enough to mimic bone. Tests showed that bone cells could adhere to the material and remained healthy, a promising outcome.
“Today, bone is the second most transplanted tissue after blood. But harvesting bone from a patient’s own body has limits and risks. PHA fibers could offer a safe, sustainable alternative,” Kopf noted.
Beyond the medical field, these fibers are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and do not contribute to microplastic pollution. Their applications may extend into various textile industries aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Looking ahead, Kopf will continue her work at RISE in the fiber development department, advancing melt spinning technologies used in her thesis.