99126 - APPLIED BIOMATERIALS

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student has acquired basic knowledge of bone and articular tissue, biomaterials commonly used for the bone tissue regeneration and for bone implants.

Course contents

The course is aimed at illustrating state of the art, open problems and advanced solutions related to the use of modern biomaterials for the manufacturing of biomedical implantable devices.

At the end of the course students will be able to:

-demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the structure and function of biomaterials
- demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of biomedical materials for specific applications
- demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the processing of biomaterials

- suggest proper strategies and suitable materials for the developement of biomaterials with tailored properties

The following topics will be discussed:

• Requirements of Biomaterials: general issues and concerns;
• Materials used for Biomaterials fabrication: characteristics and properties
• Metals
• Ceramics
• Biopolymers
• Composite materials
• valorization of industrial and agricultural waste for the extraction of materials with applications in the biomedical field
• Strategies and technologies (conventional/advanced tecniques) for biomaterials synthesis and manufacturing
• Biocompatibility, brief overview of in vitro and in vivo tests used for biomaterials validation
• Introduction to bone and osteochondral tissue: structure, composition, morphology, bone turnover and common diseases
• Current strategies for bone tissues replacement, regeneration and repair:
• metallic implants for bone substitution
• bone cements for bone supplementation
• Scaffolds for bone regeneration
• principles of Tissue Engineering approach
• Introduction to skin: structure, composition, morphology
• Hydrogels and materials fo wound healing and skin regeneration
• Design of biomaterials properly tailored for specific applications:
• Biomaterials designed as «in situ» drug delivery systems
• Biomaterials provided by antibacterial activity

Readings/Bibliography

Slides and supporting materials will be available for students in electronic format.

Teaching methods

Power Point presentation.

Interactive discussions during class hours will take place on some selected papers provided by the teacher. During the course will also be proposed exercises to be carried out in groups to develop ideas and propose solutions regarding the topics addressed.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be carried out by an oral examination (40-45 minutes) during which the students will have to demonstrate their knowledge on the formulation, manufacturing and application of biomaterials specifically designed to solve an issue.

The examination begins with the presentation of a recent article of literature chosen by the student, then some questions will be posed.

Assesment criteria

Failing grade: The student shows significant gaps in content knowledge, deficiencies in correlating materials properties to their functions and applications. Inappropriate use of scientific language.

Passing grade: The student demonstrates a basic understanding of the exam topics, with minimally appropriate use of technical language and limited ability to construct coherent arguments.

Good evaluation: The student has a solid memorized understanding of the subject matter and shows a fair ability to synthesize and analyze content. Technical terminology is used correctly.

Excellent evaluation: The student demonstrates a comprehensive knowledge of the course content, and is able to critically process information and propose solutions. The technical language is correct, and is capable of answering complex questions.

Teaching tools

PC, blackboard, Power point.

Office hours

See the website of Silvia Panzavolta