The main objectives of the proposed project are to design and synthesize structurally different metallosurfactants (monomeric, dimeric, and double-chain) with selected transition metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) in order to:

a)    obtain simple-to-produce, cost-effective, multifunctional metallosurfactants with improved self-assembly and solution properties by establishing an optimal structure-property relationship

b)    optimize simple, cost-effective, environmentally more friendly synthesis of metallic nanoparticles from synthesised metallosurfactants as metal precursors by establishing an optimal structure-property relationship and reactions conditions

c)   explore metallosurfactants as solid-state low-dimensional magnetic materials by establishing an optimal magneto-structural correlation

The EU-funded STOP project will develop antimicrobial and antiviral nanocoatings for application to high-touch surfaces. The nanocoatings will be developed using combinations of inorganic nanoparticles, antimicrobial peptides, and nanoscale laser surface modifications. The formulations will be evaluated for efficacy using existing international standards and novel testing methods. The components for the formulations have to allow flexible, sprayable and long-lasting coatings, with a broad spectrum of antimicrobial and antiviral activity and reduced risk for development of resistance. The project nanocoatings will significantly reduce infections transmitted via high-touch surfaces, healthcare costs, and environmental pollution by current disinfectants and increase general preparedness for future pandemics.

AIMed's Innovative Training Network (ITN)

The AIMed network, consisting of 12 beneficiaries and 7 partner organisations, will develop a range of materials with antimicrobial properties that are suitable for use on the surfaces of orthopaedic implants. This is in response to the increasing problem of post-operative infection by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

AIMed will carry out a thorough investigation of the properties of the new materials to ensure that they are feasible for use in future implants. This work will include the evaluation of antibacterial action and biocompatibility using appropriate models. The training of the 15 ESRs appointed to AIMed will be multidisciplinary and intersectoral, with an emphasis on the need for technology transfer from academic institutions to commercial users.

Grant agreement ID: 861138 (H2020-MSCA-ITN-2019)

More info: Antimicrobial Integrated Methodologies for orthopaedic applications | AIMed | Project | Fact sheet | H2020 | CORDIS | European Commission (europa.eu)

Cilj projekta je sustavno istražiti međudjelovanja kalcijevih fosfata i dvije vrste nanomaterijala (NM):

a) TiO₂ NM različitih morfologija (nanočestice, nanocjevčice, nanožice, nanopločice),

b) srebrnih nanočestica različite površinske modifikacije (poli(vinilpirolidon), PVP, citrat, cit, natrij bis(2-ethil-heksil) sulfosukcinat, AOT)

kako bi se utvrdio odnos između površinskih svojstava NM (površinske modifikacije, morfologije, gustoće površinskog naboja, kristalne strukture) i svojstava nastalih CaP u uvjetima bliskim fiziološkim. Također će se istražiti i utjecaj biološki aktivnih molekula, albumina i hitosana, na nastajanje CaP/NM kompozita.

We expect to find out how the biocompatible mesoporous NPs made of silica, magnetite and/or goethite loaded with flavonoids affect the organization and fluidity of the model membranes and whether the flavonoids embedded in NPs themselves permeate through and alter the membrane structure protecting their structure under oxidative stress conditions. Within this study we hope to gain more complete understanding of the mechanism of flavonoid action at the molecular level.

NanoFlavoNeuroProtect will pave the way towards development of inovative and improved therapies for oxidative stress-associated neurological disorders. In addition, the knowledge obtained within NanoFlavNeuroProtect could be extended to designing effective delivery systems for the incorporation, protection and release of other unstable bioactive molecules with an aim to improve human health or to increase the shelf life of pharmaceutical or food products.

ELAN Network je prostor za suradnju, generiranje i razvoj poslovnih prilika temeljenih na tehnologiji između Europe i Latinske Amerike. Projekt povezuje ključne europske i latinskoameričke istraživačke i inovacijske organizacije koje promoviraju ekonomski rast temeljen na tehnologij.

The project is the unique opportunity for young researchers in both teams to exchange knowledge, skills and for their further improvement. For researchers with more experience, this will be opportunity to find more efficient approaches for Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

The goal of this project is preparation of a functional prototype of biodegradable nanoparticles (NP) having built-in flavonoids as an original solution up to date not present on the market.