China’s oyster-inspired ‘bone glue’ bonds fractures, can replace metal in surgery

Oysters, those unassuming shellfish on your seafood platter, have inspired a medical breakthrough that could transform how we treat broken bones. Chinese researchers have developed "Bone-02," a revolutionary adhesive that bonds fractured bones together in just three minutes.

"The adhesive can achieve precise fixation within two to three minutes, even in a blood-rich environment," explains Lin Xianfeng, an associate chief orthopedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University.

The researchers looked to oysters' remarkable ability to stick to rocks and other surfaces underwater through a protein-rich bio-cement. This natural adhesive works in wet, salty conditions—similar to the challenging environment inside the human body.

Bone-02 boasts impressive strength, withstanding over 400 pounds of force before failing. Unlike metal plates and screws, the biodegradable glue dissolves as bones heal, eliminating the need for follow-up surgeries.

The innovation could dramatically reduce surgery times from hours to minutes, require smaller incisions, and lower infection risks. For complex fractures, bones could be "glued" back together rather than reconstructed with metal hardware, potentially revolutionizing orthopedic treatment.