Nanostructured, Biocompetent Biomaterials for Early Diagnosis & Treatment of Osteoporotic Fractures

Institution: The University of Brighton
Investigators: Dr Matteo Santin
Stream: PhD
Topic: Biomaterials
Status: Live

Aim of the proposal will be to provide a clinical alternative for an accurate early diagnosis and local treatment of osteoporotic fractures by minimally-invasive procedures. The developed technology will also contribute to prevent the majority of secondary and contralateral fractures.

A technology platform based on nanostructured, biocompetent biomaterials will be developed in the context of a PhD studentship. The platform will gradually differentiate into different product formulations for the early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporotic bone. The technology platform will be represented by two classes of nanostructured, biocompetent biomaterials recently developed by the applicant’s team which are:

(i) dual functional poly (ε-lysine) semi-dendrimers
(ii) chitosan nanoparticles

Previous works by the host team have led to the optimisation of the base structure and physico-chemical characteristics of both these types of nanostructured biomaterials. In particular, semi-dendrimeric systems have been patented and they are currently under investigation in a commercial feasibility study as molecules to improve the osteointegration of dental implants. The optimisation of their synthesis, grafting on medical implants and relative quality controls has already been achieved and the technology has recently attracted industrial interest.

In the present project, these biomaterials will undergo an accurate study focussing on biofunctionalisation strategies specific for the targeted clinical applications. The student will also seek understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of the interaction and bioactivity of these new nanostructured, biocompetent biomaterials in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporotic bone. In line with the requirement for a PhD degree, the student will perform his study in an independent framework to achieve originality in both scientific and technological knowledge. Within this independent framework, the student will be assisted by a multi-disciplinary supervisory team and by the team’s clinical links to achieve product formulations for the early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporotic bone.

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