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HK Scientist's Skeletal Research Program Funded by UGC

A skeletal research program by Hong Kong scientists had received 50 million HK dollar (US$6.4 million) funding from the University Grants Committee (UGC) as an "Area of Excellence" program, a press officer in University of Hong Kong (HKU) said Wednesday.

 

The program, which was entitled "Developmental Genomics and Skeletal Research," is a multidisciplinary research program to understand fundamental processes that ensure normal growth and maintenance of the skeleton and what genetic factors underlie degenerative skeletal disorders.

 

The officer said the prestigious award as a UGC's "Area of Excellence" program highlighted the importance of understanding musculo-skeletal disorders.

 

Skeletal disorders are one of the world's most serious health problems that cause long-term pain and physical disability for hundreds of millions of people.

 

In 2000 over 300,000 workdays were lost in Hong Kong through these disorders and 200 million HK dollars (US$25.6 million) paid in workers compensation.

 

Eighteen scientist from HKU, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will employ a variety of state-of-the-art technologies in genomics, proteomics, cell biology and transgenic animal models to conduct the research.

 

The team hopes to develop methods for reconstituting damaged skeletal tissue, leading to new clinical applications and improved quality of life for the disabled.

 

"Success of this program will contribute to placing Hong Kong at the forefront of biomedical research worldwide," the officer said.

 

The "Area of Excellency" scheme was launched by the UGC in 1998 with an aim to assist in maintaining and enhancing Hong Kong's pivotal position in the overall development of China and the Pacific Rim.

 

(Xinhua News Agency March 11, 2004)

 

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