PUSHING THE FRONTIERS OF CARTILAGE REGENERATION: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE ICRS LAB SKILLS COURSE IN UTRECHT

17/04/2025

This week, the Regenerative Medicine Center at Utrecht Science Park hosted an inspiring edition of the ICRS – International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society Laboratory Skills Course, bringing together 40 participants from across the globe to dive into the latest in cartilage regeneration.

Over three days, participants immersed themselves in hands-on lab work, live demonstrations, and thought-provoking lectures, all centered on cutting-edge topics like cell-based therapies and bioprinting technologies. The course served as a unique platform to explore the intersection of science, technology, and clinical innovation in regenerative medicine.

A huge thank you goes out to all the enthusiastic participants, as well as the incredible lineup of speakers and instructors – including Daniel Grande, Gerjo Van Osch, Frank Zaucke, Daniël Saris, Lucienne Vonk, Riccardo Levato, Jaqueline Lourdes Rios, Harrie Weinans, Keita Ito, and many more – for their inspiring contributions and valuable insights during both lectures and practical sessions.

Special thanks to Roel JH Custers and Jasmijn Korpershoek for their leadership, and to the fantastic organizing team, including Paulina Nunez Bernal, Marlena Maria Księżarczyk, Saskia Plomp, Lisanne Dechant, Alba Pueyo Moliner, Aylin Kara Özenler, Antonia Vasilopoulou, Lennard Spauwen, Mattie van Rijen, and many others who ensured that every detail ran smoothly.

We also gratefully acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors: Geistlich, JRF Ortho, Smith+Nephew, Vericel® Corporation, ReLive Biotechnologies (CO.DON), Regenerative Medicine Utrecht, and Viscofan.

This course was a true celebration of learning, collaboration, and international exchange — and a strong step forward in advancing regenerative joint care.

Here’s to continued growth, new partnerships, and future breakthroughs in cartilage repair!