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IVI kicks off first ‘Introductory Course for Biologics Development and Manufacturing’ to train 117 people from 25 LMICs on July 18

The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has launched a two-week training course for biologics development and manufacturing, targeting low- and middle-income countries. The program aims to enhance local production of vaccines and biologics in LMICs to address vaccine inequity and global pandemic preparedness.

Multi-functional bandage helps wounds to heal - Biomolecular film adheres to sensitive tissue and releases active ingredients

Researchers developed a biopolymer film that combines anti-bacterial properties, inflammation dampening, and release of active pharmaceutical ingredients in a targeted manner. The film adheres to sensitive surfaces without damaging tissue, speeding up healing process and completely dissolving by itself.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2022

Engineers at UBC get under the skin of ionic skin

Researchers at UBC create ionic skins made of flexible hydrogels that use ions to carry an electrical charge. These hydrogels can generate voltages when touched, producing a piezoionic effect that allows them to detect pressure and other stimuli. The technology has potential applications in prosthetics, wearable sensors, and body impla...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022

It’s all in the hiPS

A team of researchers from Osaka University and Kyoto University developed a stem cell-based biomaterial, hiPS-Cart, to treat IVD degeneration and prevent further deterioration. The biomaterial was able to survive and maintain its functionality in lab rats with NP removal, reversing IVF and vertebral bone degeneration.

SourceOsaka University·JournalBiomaterials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

Nerve stimulation with the help of implantable mini solar cells

Scientists have created a new technology using colour pigments from the food industry to stimulate nerve cells with the help of implantable mini solar cells. This innovation could lead to accelerated healing and prevention of complications in severe brain injuries, as well as potential applications in pain therapy and retinal implants.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 6, 2022

Relief for oceans and landfills?

Researchers developed novel bioplastics using lysine-rich proteins, offering improved durability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The bioplastics can be produced without toxic chemicals or complex processing steps, making them a promising alternative for packaging, toys, and other applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2022

An insulin patch that sticks inside a person’s cheek

Researchers have developed a prototype insulin-loaded patch that comfortably sticks to the inside of a person's cheek, offering a less invasive way to manage blood sugar levels. The patch, activated by heat, releases insulin into the bloodstream several times faster than through skin, showing promise for diabetes treatment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·DateFeb 2, 2022

3D printing of blood plasma may speed up wound healing

Researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences have developed a new method to enhance wound healing using 3D printing of platelet-rich plasma. The technique showed promising results in improving vascularisation and reducing fibrosis, leading to faster and more successful wound healing.

SourceRCSI·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 30, 2021

How ant teeth cut like a scalpel

A recent study reveals that ants, worms, spiders, and other tiny creatures have a built-in set of tools that maximize cutting efficiency thanks to the arrangement of individual atoms of zinc. This biomaterial allows animals to use less force, making their smaller muscles spend less energy.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Improving strength, stretchiness and adhesion in hydrogels for wound healing

Researchers from Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation develop methods to enhance mechanical properties of hydrogels, including toughness, stretchiness, and adhesive strength. By introducing dopamine and alkaline conditions, they create gel-like materials with improved biocompatibility and regenerative capabilities.

SourceTerasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021

CHOP researchers develop coating for endotracheal tubes that releases antimicrobial peptides

Researchers created a polymer coating that releases Lasioglossin-III, an AMP with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, targeting specific infectious bacteria and preventing airway complications. The coating demonstrated significant antibacterial activity and prevented bacterial adherence to the tube.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalThe Laryngoscope·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Developing new techniques to build biomaterials

Scientists at the University of Leeds have developed an approach to control the structure and mechanics of synthetic biomaterials made from proteins. By removing specific chemical bonds, known as 'protein staples,' they altered the structure of a protein network, resulting in different mechanical properties.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 6, 2021

In a supramolecular realm: Advances in intracellular spaces with de novo designed peptide

Researchers develop a de novo peptide Y15 that readily forms secondary structures to enable bottom-up synthesis of functional protein assemblies in live cells. The peptide enables the formation of fibrous structures and clusters in test tubes and live cells, facilitating protein assembly and reconstitution of natural complexes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 1, 2021