Pelvic organ prolapse is very understudied condition, yet it affects more than 300 million women worldwide. Alma Kurki’s PhD research in the Adult Stem Cell Group focused on gynecological and urological implant materials designed to release vitamin C derivative that boost collagen production in cells. The synthetic biodegradable polymer PLCL was used as the implant material and tested both in cell culture models and in rats.
Kurki concentrated on evaluating the implant material for pelvic organ prolapse and for treating of urethral injuries.
“In vitro [cell culture] experiments revealed cell-type-specific effects of the vitamin C-releasing PLCL biomaterials and provided data on cell proliferation, phenotype and the production of collagen and other extracellular proteins. Animal models complemented these findings by demonstrating tissue-level observations of increased collagen deposition and tissue strengthening in living tissue.” Kurki comments.
Kurki successfully defended her PhD. against opponent Professor Julie Fradette from the Université Laval. Professor Susanna Miettinen acted as custos. Gynecologist, Dr Reetta Sartoneva acted as co-supervisor. Read full PhD here.
Kurki’s full interview can be read in Aamulehti (in Finnish).