Articles tagged with Biomaterials
Researchers have developed a building material that uses fungal mycelium and bacteria cells, which can self-repair for at least a month. This innovation has the potential to replace conventional building materials with high carbon footprints like cement, reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.
Researchers utilized machine learning models to identify key surface attributes modulating immune response, paving the way for improved implant materials. The study revealed pivotal factors regulating cytokine secretion and offered insights into designing alloys with optimized immunoregulatory functions.
Jennifer L. West, UVA Engineering Dean and Saunders Family Professor of Engineering, has been awarded the 2025 Pierre Galletti Award for her innovative research in biomaterials and nanomedicine. Her work has led to breakthroughs in treating cancer with precision, offering new hope to patients battling hard-to-treat cancers.
A team of scientists discovered a method to produce a stable and conductive bioelectric material without the need for a chemical crosslinker. The new process uses high heat to stabilize the material, producing devices with three times higher electrical conductivity and more consistent stability.
Researchers identified a Y chromosome-linked gene, UTY, as a key driver of valve calcification in males. In females, fibrotic tissue formation stiffens the valve, leading to different disease progression. The study highlights the importance of sex-based mechanisms in heart valve disease
Researchers developed magnetic micro swimmers covered in a thin coating of magnetic nanoparticles, unaffected by the coating. The algae maintained their swimming speed after magnetization and navigated 3D-printed channels using magnetic guidance.
Researchers have made significant progress in applying tissue engineering to spinal cord injury (SCI) repair. Biomaterials such as hydrogels and decellularized extracellular matrix promote nerve regeneration, while stem cells and exosomes enhance functional recovery.
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo designed a protein cage system that can control and visualize orientational changes in aromatic side chains through strategic binding of fluorescent ligands. This approach enables precise control over protein dynamics while enhancing fluorescence properties, with potential applications in biomo...
The article reviews additive manufacturing technology for biomedical metals, enabling customized implants with precise internal structures. It highlights the integration of AI and 4D printing, addressing challenges in production costs, regulatory compliance, and post-processing.
Researchers at the University of Sydney are using Zwitterions to create materials that can prevent blood clots from forming in medical devices and implants. They have successfully created a zwitterionic coating that repels water beyond the material's boundaries.
Researchers developed mini biohybrid rays using cardiomyocytes and rubber, demonstrating improved swimming efficiencies approximately two times greater than previous biomimetic designs. The application of machine-learning directed optimization enabled an efficient search for high-performance design configurations.
A Virginia Tech research team has made significant progress in understanding the role of physical properties in tuning the body's immune responses. By modifying biomaterials' size, shape, and stiffness, they aim to enhance immune cell behavior and stimulate antitumor immune responses.
A new biodegradable polymer-based delivery system efficiently transports mRNA, outperforming existing lipid nanoparticles in delivery efficiency and expression duration. The study also shows improved immune response results without liver accumulation or toxicity.
Three UVA engineering professors, James T. Burns, Coleen Carrigan, and Liheng Cai, have received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) from President Biden. The award recognizes their innovative work in science and technology, including Burns' research on material fracture under unique conditions and...
Lehigh University bioengineering researcher Tomas Gonzalez-Fernandez is exploring how combining CRISPR with biomaterials can improve gene editing's safety and efficacy for therapeutic use. His NSF CAREER award-funded research aims to develop more targeted and controlled therapies for genetic diseases.
A new study by civil engineers and earth systems scientists at the University of California, Davis and Stanford University suggests that storing carbon in buildings could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The researchers calculated that using carbonated aggregates to make concrete could absorb a gigaton of CO2 annually.
Researchers developed a novel inhalable therapeutic delivery system for lung cancer using mucoadhesive protein nanoparticles inspired by marine mussels. The approach leverages the adhesive properties of mussel proteins to enable selective payload release and minimize adverse effects.
A new bone regeneration scaffold, Qx-D, shows promise in treating infected bone defects by exhibiting broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against various bacteria. The scaffold also supports the adhesion and differentiation of key cell types involved in bone regeneration.
A QUT-led study found that surgeons are slow to adopt newly developed biomaterials or tissue-engineered solutions for treating bone defects. The researchers surveyed 337 surgeons and 99 scientists, revealing a significant gap between their optimism about future advancements and the slow adoption of these innovations in clinical practice.
The InteReg project aims to create interactive biomaterials that instruct cells to regenerate after brain or spinal cord injuries, potentially treating MS and other neurological disorders. The project, funded by the Carl Zeiss Foundation, brings together experts in biology, chemistry, medicine, and polymer research.
Researchers developed nanocomposites that effectively reduce noise and improve signal transmission for brain pacemakers. The materials use a combination of graphene and clay to absorb and disperse energy, reducing the impact of external electrical fields on patients.
Advanced research identifies potential molecular instructions determining echinoderms' ability to adapt and regenerate tissues. The breakthrough could lead to new regenerative therapies and smart collagen-based biomaterials for treating human health conditions.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed a tissue-anchoring mechanism for medical devices, inspired by the circular hook-like attachment organ found in intestinal tapeworms. The device can be deployed in under 1 millisecond and anchors into soft tissue with minimal damage.
Researchers at Kyushu University develop a novel technique for building complex 3D microfluidic networks using plant roots and fungal hyphae in silica nanoparticles. This bio-inspired method enables the creation of intricate biological structures, opening new opportunities for research in plant and fungal biology.
Team Bath Heart, a team of students from the University of Bath, has won the second world Heart Hackathon title with their innovative artificial heart device. The team's prototype, which uses wireless charging and 3D printing, was praised for its novelty, progress, and presentation.
Researchers develop novel Ta-based implants with improved biocompatibility and osseointegration properties, enabling better bone growth and stability. The designs optimize mechanical and biological requirements for optimal clinical results.
Researchers developed porous dermal fillers that accelerate tissue healing and regeneration for diabetic wounds. The novel approach combining electrospinning and electrospraying technologies creates biocompatible microspheres that promote cell migration, granulation tissue formation, and neovascularization.
A Carnegie Mellon University-led team is developing a bioelectronic implant called ROGUE that can produce a year's supply of treatment for chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The device will offer continuous, adjustable therapy deployment via a minimally invasive procedure.
Researchers found significant challenges in spider silk production, including scale-up issues and toxicity concerns. The study highlights potential host organisms for producing spider silk, such as microbes and bacteria, to address these challenges.
Researchers developed a novel approach to optimizing siRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles using NMR-based molecular-level characterization. Pre-mixed LNPs exhibit superior gene-silencing effects due to a stacked bilayer structure that enhances gene silencing.
Researchers are working on a new method for preserving microbial samples using microfluidics, biomaterials, and protein engineering. The goal is to improve biosurveillance and protect soldiers and civilians from infectious diseases.
A team from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry has patented a new regenerative bone graft material that can regenerate about eight times more bone than existing scaffolds. The breakthrough could transform bone grafts for millions of people who require them, reducing costs and complications associated with traditional methods.
Researchers at Kyushu University developed a new organic thermoelectric device that can generate power from ambient temperature. The device, composed of copper phthalocyanine and fullerenes, achieved an open-circuit voltage of 384 mV and a short-circuit current density of 1.1 μA/cm².
The researchers synthesized supramolecular polymers with the ability to form larger complexes in response to external stimuli, which may shed light on biomolecular self-assembly and other ‘smart’ materials. The resulting shape of the assemblies can be controlled based on the concentration of a specific additive.
The Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts is a leading open access journal fostering transformative research on bioresource conversion into biomaterials, biochemicals, and bioenergy. The journal's eight thematic areas focus on cutting-edge topics in sustainable energy and materials science.
Researchers at PolyU have invented a unique fluidic processor called Connected Polyhedral Frames (CPFs), which enables reversible switching between liquid capture and release. CPFs offer a versatile platform for various applications, including controlled multidrug release, biomaterial encapsulation, and air conditioning.
Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have developed a novel approach to metalworking using chitinous colloids and composites. By leveraging the affinity between chitin and metals, they created functional metallic structures without high temperatures or pressures.
Researchers developed an aspirin-containing hydrogel that mimics the nutrient-rich fluid between cells, accelerating healing of radiation-induced skin injuries in animal models. The new salve could provide rapid wound healing for humans with minimal side effects.
Researchers found that butterflies spin unique silk structures, including hook-and-loop fasteners and multi-strand safety tethers, to secure their chrysalises to branches. Despite being thinner and weaker than silkworm silk, these structures provide a stable anchor for the butterfly's transformation.
Researchers at Linköping University have created soft electrodes made of gold nanowires and silicone rubber, capable of stimulating nerve signals and capturing electrical signals. The material is expected to last for at least three years and has potential applications in medical devices.
Liheng Cai, a UVA engineering professor, has received a $1.9 million NIH grant to create advanced biomaterials that can be used to repair living tissues and build organ structures. His lab aims to develop polymers that mimic human biology and integrate healthy cells into the human body.
Researchers explore inkjet printing's potential for creating advanced biomaterials with controlled particulate distribution. The review highlights the technology's applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, and bioelectronics.
A UVA research team has developed biomaterials with controlled mechanical properties matching those of various human tissues, representing a significant leap in bioprinting technologies. Their unique digital assembly of spherical particles (DASP) technique can deposit particles of biomaterial in a supporting matrix to build 3D structur...
A team of scientists at Harvard University developed a new RNA synthesis process that produces RNA with efficiencies comparable to current industry standards. The novel method can incorporate all common molecular modifications found in RNA drugs, expanding the RNA therapeutic design space.
The NTU team created a compact and flexible light-based sensing device, like a plaster, to provide highly accurate biomarker readings within minutes. The device detects glucose, lactate, and urea levels in sweat with ultra-high sensitivity and dynamic range.
Developed by University of Tsukuba researchers, the wearable patch accurately measures insensible perspiration, allowing for real-time hydration monitoring. The patch also detects variations in pH levels and chemical components, making it a promising tool for dehydration management, stress monitoring, and disease detection.
Researchers developed a flexible-yet-sturdy morphing structure inspired by the starfish skeleton with 4D morphing features. The structure exhibits self-locking, continuous bending, self-healing, and shape memory features, making it suitable for industry applications in robotics, aviation, and biomedical devices.
Researchers from Chiba University develop sustainable method for producing biodegradable polymers using cuttlefish ink melanin. Decomposition products are converted into polymeric materials with potential applications in circular economies.
Researchers develop mechanobiomaterials inspired by biomechanics to modulate biological responses with material-tissue mechanical interactions. This approach aims to create biomaterials that can adapt to changing mechanical environments in vivo, enhancing the body's regenerative potential and repairing various tissues.
Researchers have developed a biodegradable scaffold to facilitate bladder tissue growth, reducing complications associated with traditional augmentation procedures. An implantable sensor also enhances patient monitoring, paving the way for improved bladder surgery outcomes.
A new study published in GEN Biotechnology describes the establishment of a 3D hydrogel-based platform for producing functional T-cells from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. The platform was engineered with key thymic components to direct T-cell development, producing cytokine-producing T-cells.
Researchers at Wyss Institute develop subcutaneous scaffolds to restimulate CAR-T cells, increasing therapeutic efficacy in mice with aggressive blood tumors. The biomaterials increase CAR-T cell numbers and steer differentiation into tumor-killing T cells.
Researchers developed an antioxidant gel to preserve islet function after pancreas removal, significantly improving survival and preserving normal blood sugar levels in animals. The new approach could enable patients to live pain-free without complications of diabetes.
The DRIVE-RM consortium, led by UMC Utrecht, aims to develop smart materials that assist the body in healing and regenerate tissues and organs using regenerative medicine. The project focuses on treating chronic diseases such as heart failure, kidney failure, and worn joints.
The new nanodevice shows significant efficacy against pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. It improves the efficacy of encapsulated cinnamaldehyde by up to 52-fold for E. coli and 60-fold for S. aureus.
Researchers at Rice University developed a new material that mimics skin elasticity and motion types while preserving signal strength in electronics. The material, made by embedding ceramic nanoparticles into an elastic polymer, stabilizes radio-frequency communication and minimizes energy loss.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a novel resin for 3D printing intraocular devices, offering unprecedented levels of customization and design precision. This innovation has potential to enhance eye care globally with tailored lenses, faster production, and cost reduction.
Researchers have developed a new paste substrate for cultivating mycelium leather, enabling faster growth and easier harvesting. The study found that this method produces thicker mycelial mats with improved yields, making it a promising sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
A team of scientists at the University of Ottawa has developed a novel peptide-based hydrogel that can be used for on-the-spot repair to damaged organs and tissues. The material shows great potential for closing skin wounds, delivering therapeutics to damaged heart muscle, and reshaping and healing injured corneas.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a protein gel that breaks down alcohol in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing blood alcohol levels and acetaldehyde production. The gel shows promising results in mice studies, demonstrating a lower alcohol level and therapeutic effect on liver damage and weight loss.