Development of Chitosan-Based Composite Scaffolds with Semiconductors for Improved Biological Properties

• Grant number: 24/15977-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 28, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Elson Longo da Silva
• Grantee: Giovanna de Amorim Grasser
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The development of scaffolds based on chitosan composites with semiconductors represents an innovative and promising approach to enhancing biological properties in skin tissue engineering and wound healing. As the largest organ of the human body, the skin tissue plays a fundamental role in protection and thermal regulation. However, its integrity can be compromised by various factors, such as trauma, burns, peripheral vascular diseases, and infections, resulting in wounds that are difficult to heal, posing substantial challenges for recovery and causing a significant economic impact. To be effective in skin regeneration, scaffolds must possess specific properties, such as biocompatibility, non-immunogenicity, biodegradability, mechanical stability, and characteristics that promote healing, such as the promotion of angiogenesis and the prevention of infections. Chitosan, the second most abundant natural polymer after cellulose, is considered a promising biomaterial due to its biocompatibility, non-toxicity, biodegradability, and antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The incorporation of nanoparticles, such as hydroxyapatite and NiWO4, into chitosan composites has attracted great interest in scientific research, as it results in a unique combination of enhanced properties, including increased mechanical strength, structural stability, and antimicrobial activity. This project proposes the development of scaffolds based on chitosan composites with these functional nanoparticles, aiming to evaluate their physicochemical properties, biological activity, and antimicrobial activity, seeking to optimize their application in tissue regeneration and wound healing.