Stimuli-responsive biomaterials for wound management
Aims
To deliver innovative products for wound management employing bioelectronic/biophotonic biomaterials.
Overview
The global wound care market is valued at > US$ 20 Bn, yet there is little innovation in wound care technologies on the market. Interestingly, there is a significant amount of evidence showing that electricity and light can enhance wound healing through a combination of controlled delivery of therapeutics (e.g. antimicrobials, anti-inflammatories, drugs) for enhanced tissue preservation, and pro-regenerative activity (e.g. enhanced cell proliferation, etc.) achieved by direct electrical/light stimulation of the wound. To address the clinical need for novel wound care technologies we have investigated innovative technologies based on the integration of stimuli-responsive polymer biomaterials into products for internal/external wound care. This is aligned with UKRI’s “Technology Touching Lives” theme.
Results and Outcomes
Tab Content: For Partners and Engagement
The interdisciplinary project involved researchers in the Department of Chemistry, School of Engineering and Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences to explore the application of stimuli-responsive biomaterials which may be useful for inclusion in industry products. The university-based team conducted a variety of experiments to develop stimuli-responsive biomaterials and validate their application in vitro.
“Working with the Lancaster university multidisciplinary team on this project has been a rewarding experience. The collaborative environment fostered innovation and accelerated the development and refinement of new materials and measurement techniques. By sharing expertise and resources, our laboratories were able to achieve significant advancements that would not have been possible otherwise. This interdisciplinary approach has undoubtedly strengthened our research capabilities and opened up new avenues for future collaboration." Wayne Bonnefin, R&D Director – Advanced Medical Solutions.
Tab Content: For Academics
The project offered the academic team understanding of the opportunities for engagement with industry partners. Staff have honed their skills in report writing for non-academic audiences, demonstration of impact from their collaborative research and develop professional networks (particularly in the healthcare industry) which may unlock opportunities for future research and development activities to benefit the UK’s economy/society.
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