Dr Ali Fathi, during his PhD at the University of Sydney, developed Tetramatrix, an injectable tissue scaffold designed to dramatically reduce these recovery times. Tetramatrix is a temperature-sensitive liquid that hardens at body temperature, providing structural support while immobilising local biologics and progenitor cells to signal the body to repair tissues. The scaffold’s components can be customised to alter hardness, elasticity and structural stability, making it adaptable for various surgical applications.
To advance the technology, Dr Fathi co-founded Tetratherix with Terence Abrams in 2015. Recently listed on the ASX, the company has raised over A$39 million, holds a robust portfolio of 36 patents, and operates a Sydney-based manufacturing facility creating local jobs and contributing to Australia’s advanced manufacturing sector.
Microscopy Australia played a pivotal role in the R&D journey, supporting Tetramatrix from early development to clinical trials. Techniques like environmental scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and light microscopy were used to study scaffold structure, cell interaction, and tissue regeneration.
“Start-ups have to be cognisant of where their money is spent. To have organisations like [Microscopy Australia] helps with business growth” – Terence Abrams, COO, Tetratherix
Tetramatrix has already shown clinical utility in five applications and successfully completed trials for bone healing after tooth extraction. It has the potential to reduce recovery times from eight weeks to just two, improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital stays.
May 5, 2026
