Development of morphogenetic protein carrier systems for scaffold coating

• Grant number: 25/04045-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: May 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Rosemary Aparecida de Carvalho
• Grantee: Fábulo Ribeiro Monteiro
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Pirassununga , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/10604-0 - Development of ceramics scaffolds for application in tissue engineering, AP.TEM

Abstract

In recent years, the use of controlled release systems has aroused the interest of researchers in developing more effective clinical treatments in tissue engineering, since it has proven to be suitable for promoting the transport of molecules and proteins, improving therapeutic efficacy, and reducing toxic effects on the body. In this context, this project proposes to develop a process for the formulation and characterization of a carrier system for bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) for application in porous ceramic nanocomposites "scaffold" of alumina/zirconia (Al2O3/ZrO2) produced by the gel-casting technique and 3D printing. The effect of using different polymers and different coating concentrations will be evaluated to obtain the best adhesion in the scaffolds produced by several methods. The materials coated with polymers with and without incorporation of BMP-2 will be characterized. In addition, various methodologies for the incorporation of BMP-2 will be developed. The maximum and minimum viable concentrations for incorporation and the effect of using different polymers in the coating of scaffolds on the controlled release of BMP-2 will be evaluated. The results of this study will be based on the publication of scientific articles in relevant journals, with a good impact factor, in addition to participation in national and international scientific conferences.