New polymers and polymeric mixtures obtained from Pullulana, reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals, for application in regenerative medicine

• Grant number: 24/20291-4
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Amilton Martins dos Santos
• Grantee: Amilton Martins dos Santos
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Lorena , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Nicole Raymonde Demarquette ; Sophie Lerouge

Abstract

The main objective in this research project is to develop hydrogels with pullulan-based (co)polymers, combined with chitosan and reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), for application in regenerative medicine, via the new technology of 3D bioprinting. The project addresses the challenges of replicating the human tissue microenvironment, focusing on improving the rheological and mechanical properties of the hydrogels, which are critical for the stability and functionality of the bioprinted scaffolds. The methodology includes the modification and characterization of polymers, followed by the preparation of hydrogels, which will be evaluated in terms of morphology, thermal behavior, swelling capacity, and mechanical properties. Bioprinting will be carried out using human mesenchymal stem cells, focusing on creating scaffolds capable of supporting cell adhesion and proliferation. The cellular viability and the scaffolds' ability to replicate native tissue conditions will be rigorously tested. This project will allow us to continue an existing collaboration project with the "Ecole de Téchnologie Supérieure - ETS/Université du Quebec a Montreal - UQAM", funded by the NSERC (Project ALLRP 573019-2/: Applications of Pullulan Nanostructures for Drug Delivery), and will be developed in partnership with the "Hopital Univeristaire - HU/UQAM. (AU)