Innovative Silicate Bioactive Glass Ions Scaffold Fabrication: Harnessing Silanol Nanoparticles for Enhanced Cellular Responses

• Grant number: 23/18405-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Dental Materials
• Principal Investigator: Gilmar Patrocínio Thim
• Grantee: Gilmar Patrocínio Thim
• Host Investigator: Aldo Roberto Boccaccini
• Host Institution: Divisão de Ciências Fundamentais (IEF). Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). Ministério da Defesa (Brasil). São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Germany

Abstract

The project "Innovative Silicate Bioactive Glass Ions Scaffold Fabrication: Harnessing Silanol Nanoparticles for Enhanced Cellular Responses" led by Prof. Dr. Gilmar Patrocínio Thim, with overseas supervision by Prof. Dr. Aldo Roberto Boccaccini at the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, focuses on the innovation of biomaterials for applications in biomedical engineering, especially in bioactive glasses and their use in bone and dental regeneration. A notable feature of the project is the investigation of the release of bioactive glass ions without the need for particulate matter, using silanol nanoparticles and bioactive salts in aqueous dispersion.This innovative approach enables the controlled release of ions, optimizing the biological response to promote tissue regeneration. The methodology is distinguished by the preparation of silanol groups in an aqueous medium and the use of this dispersion for the fabrication of a scaffold in a 3D printer, using alginate as a bonding agent. This opens new avenues for studying the isolated effects of ions on cell growth and tissue regeneration without the interference of particulate matter, a significant advantage for advancing the understanding of cellular interaction with biomaterials and the development of more effective and biocompatible medical treatments.In addition, the project focuses on a detailed analysis of the properties of the materials produced, including cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and adhesion, inflammation, biodegradation, and osseointegration tests, to evaluate the potential of these new biomaterials for clinical applications in regenerative medicine. The proposal represents a significant advance in tissue engineering, promising valuable contributions to the field of regenerative medicine and the development of innovative solutions for bone and dental regeneration.