Development of a bioactive injectable system for controlled ion release with osteostimulatory effects and selective action on tumor cells - osteosarcoma

• Grant number: 25/01038-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Bioengineering
• Principal Investigator: João Henrique Lopes
• Grantee: Luis Felipe Moreira Oliveira
• Host Institution: Divisão de Ciências Fundamentais (IEF). Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). Ministério da Defesa (Brasil). São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/03247-6 - Investigation of mesoporous nanoparticles from bioactive glasses containing niobium in bone tissue engineering, AP.PNGP.PI

Abstract

In this project, we propose the development and characterization of a paste-like platform for the local and controlled delivery of gallium ions for targeted osteosarcoma tumor therapy, as well as other biologically relevant ionic species for bone regeneration. The biodegradable injectable paste (REGENERA GEL) will be composed of the poly(L-lactide-co-¿-caprolactone) (PLCL) copolymer, mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) nanoparticles containing Nb and Ga, and poly(ethylene glycol)s (PEGs) with different molecular weights. PLCL was selected due to its well-established biodegradability and biocompatibility, while PEGs will be incorporated to enhance the rheological properties and regulate the system's hydrophilic/hydrophobic behavior. MBGs play a strategic role in accelerating the chemical and biological processes associated with bone regeneration, and niobium was chosen for its ability to promote osteogenesis. The incorporation of gallium into MBGs is justified by its exceptional anticancer activity, making it a promising candidate for targeted tumor therapy. The paste will be characterized in terms of rheological properties, chemical properties (composition and solubility), and structural features using various analytical techniques. Additionally, in vitro assays, both acellular and cell-based, will be conducted to evaluate its effectiveness and selectivity toward tumor cells.