Projects
Antimicrobial Integrated Methodologies for orthopaedic applications (AIMed)
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)
Surface nanocoatings to prevent transfer of pathogens (STOP)
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.
Mechanisms of calcium phosphates formation on inorganic nanomaterials. A biomimetic synthetic route for multifunctional nanocomposites for hard tissue regeneration.
The aim of the proposed project is to systematically investigate the calcium phosphate interactions with two types of inorganic nanomaterials (NMs), namely:
a) titanium dioxide NMs of different morphology (nanoparticles, nanotubes, nanowires, nanoplates),
b) silver nanoparticles of different surface modification (poly(vinylpyrrolidone), PVP; citrate, cit; sodium bis(2-ethyl-hexyl) sulfosuccinate, AOT)
in order to determine the relationship between NMs interface properties (surface modification, morphology, surface charge density, crystal structure) and the properties of forming CaPs solid phase at conditions close to physiological.
The lipid-peroxidation inhibition governed by interactions between nanocarried flavonoids and model lipid membranes
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.
European and Latin American Technology based Business Network - Europa Aid Project
The ELAN Network is a space for collaboration, co-generation and development of technology based business opportunities between Europe and Latin America. It brings together key European and Latin American research and innovation actors (R&I), who promote technology based transformation processes and economic growth.
Nanostructured carriers for controlled release of flavonoids as a potential therapeutics for treatment of Alzheimers' disease
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.
Protective mechanisms and effects of nano-delivered flavonoids in model cell membranes and neurons (NanoFlavNeuroProtect)
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.
Biocompatible nanoparticles with enhanced therapeutic efficacy of flavonoids in food
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.