Fracture-related infection (FRI) remains one of the most challenging complications in orthopaedic trauma, frequently resulting in bone destruction, implant failure, and prolonged treatment. Recent evidence suggests that early infection-induced bone loss is primarily driven by neutrophil-mediated inflammation and proteolytic degradation, alongside classical osteoclast-driven pathways.
This project (DONUT – Development of advanced Osteolysis Model drive by NeUTrophils) aims to further our knowledge on this topic by developing a novel human-relevant 3D in vitro model that integrates:
- Spatially organized bone constructs generated using Sound-Induced Morphogenesis
- Integration of immune cell populations including neutrophils
- Controlled introduction of Staphylococcus aureus
- Advanced molecular and imaging-based readouts
The project will enable mechanistic insights into infection-induced osteolysis and provide a platform for testing new therapeutic strategies.
Start of work: Position will remain open until role is filled, preferred start by October 2026.
Duration: 4 years
