A team led by Columbia University for TA3 is focusing on integrated total knee implants. They have engineered a living, 3D-printed, human knee on a biodegradable scaffold that is infused with adult stem cells either from the patient’s own body (lipoaspirate from the abdomen) or from adult inducible pluripotent stem cells. After implantation, the cells regenerate the joint’s natural cartilage and bone tissues as the scaffold disappears. The new biomaterials allow the bone replacement structure to balance strength, ductility, and manufacturability using 3D printing. Columbia’s design mirrors the structure of current metal and plastic replacement joints, so surgeons can implant it using existing technologies and will have a higher rate of clinical adoption. NOVAJoint Orthopedics has been established as an independent company to commercialize their breakthrough technologies and make them accessible to all OA patients.