Nanoscale Radiation Engineering of Advanced Materials for Potential Biomedical Applications
Closed for Proposals
Project Type
Coordinated Research ProjectProject Code
F23028
CRP
1537
Approved Date
09.09.2008Project Status
ClosedStart Date
12.01.2009Expected End Date
12.01.2013Completed Date
21.05.2013Description
There are critical needs for advanced materials in the area of biomaterial engineering primarily in generating biomaterials of enhanced specific functionalities improved biocompatibility, and minimal natural rejection but with enhanced inter facial adhesion. These can be achieved by introduction of proper functionalities at the nanoscale dimensions and radiation techniques are uniquely suited for such a task due to their favourable characteristics and in most cases, not possible by other methods of synthesis. Accordingly, many of the developing and developed Member States have an interest in creating advanced materials using a wide array of radiation sources and their broad expertise. In order to use the advantages of radiation techniques and address the needs of Member States for producing advanced materials for various health care applications, a CRP has been formulated based on the recommendations of a Consultant's Meeting. The CRP aims to support MS to develop methodologies for the use of radiation in the synthesis, modification, and characterization of nanomaterials - nanogels, nanoparticles, nanovehicles, nanoporous membranes, and surfaces with enhanced biocompatibility for potential biomedical applications, such as cell-sheet engineering and artificial tissue construction; diagnostics and imaging; drug delivery. Additionally, this CRP will facilitate net working between radiation technologists and biomedical scientists for the development of such applications
Objectives
The overall objective of this project was to support MS on the use of radiation in the synthesis, modification, and characterization of advanced materials by nanoscale control of their properties.
Specific Objectives
To develop radiolytic methodologies for synthesis of nanoparticles and nanoporous membranes, as well as to synthesize and modify nanoparticle surfaces by attaching organic ligands.
To fabricate new stimuli-responsive surfaces by radiation induced grafting on the nanoscale for cell-sheet engineering with improved cell-matrix interactions and cell-function control.
To radiation synthesize polymeric, inorganic and hybrid nanocarriers, providing for controlled loading and improved releasing rate of drugs.
Impact
The CRP had very high impact on enhancing the research capabilities of the participating institutions in radiation engineering on the nanoscale, for the preparation/modification of new polymer materials intended for biomedical applications. The following achievements can be highlighted:
- nanogels and nanoparticles based on natural and/or synthetic polymers and proteins were developed by a precise control of the structure, size, shape and functionality;
- a number of developed nanocarriers were tested for drug delivery applications;
- nanoporous membranes were successfully fabricated, functionalized and tested for drug delivery;
- hydrogel-nanoparticle composites were developed for drug release, as drug-eluting coating for medical implant, and as coating with antimicrobial properties;
- multifunctional electrospun nanofiber network was produced and tested as sensor;
- functional thermo-responsive materials for cell sheet engineering have been prepared and successfully tested for culturing a cell monolayer.
Under this CRP several institutions succeeded in starting the transfer of technology to industry. The participants established numerous collaborations and signed relevant agreements between their institutions that will be in effect long after this CRP is completed. Participants have also used additional Agency support under national and regional TC projects to collaborate, and had also applied jointly for additional support of their work to various EU institutions. Additionally, the participants proposed several follow-up activities.
Relevance
The CRP is in line with research and development priorities of participating MS, and they expressed strong commitment for continued work in this area.
CRP Publications
China
scientific paper
2010
CHEN, Q.D., SHEN, X.H., GAO, H.C., Radiolytic syntheses of nanoparticles in supramolecular assemblies, Adv. Colloid Interface Sci. 159 (2010) 32. (Invited review)