Interdisciplinar net for the development of biotechnological products from marine origin for use in human health: pathological complication of the osteoarticular system

• Grant number: 25/13279-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Bioengineering
• Principal Investigator: Ana Claudia Muniz Renno
• Grantee: Daniel Vitor de Souza
• Host Institution: Instituto de Saúde e Sociedade (ISS). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/10228-5 - Interdisciplinar net for the development of biotechnological products from marine origin for use in human health: pathological complication of the osteoarticular system, AP.TEM

Abstract

Currently, there is a significant increase in the incidence of chronic degenerative diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA), which leads to the progressive degeneration of articular cartilage. Within this context, the treatment of joint degeneration related to OA has become extremely challenging, which has driven the search for innovative and effective therapeutic approaches. Thus, biomaterials, especially those of natural origin, represent a promising alternative for the treatment of these conditions. Several studies have shown that marine sponges, because they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, are a valuable source of bioactives that can be used as a matrix for the manufacture of biomaterials applicable to osteoarticular conditions. In this context, this proposal aims to evaluate the in vitro biocompatibility of a hydrogel manufactured from alginate associated with anti-inflammatory bioactives, as well as its effects on an experimental model of OA in rats. To achieve these objectives, cartilage tissue cells will be used to assess viability, cell proliferation and gene expression. In parallel, Wistar rats will be subjected to induced knee OA and treated with the developed biomaterial. After the experimental periods, the animals will be euthanized and their samples processed for microtomography, histological, histomorphometric and mechanical analyses, among others. These analyses will make it possible to assess the biological interaction between the biomaterial and the joint tissue, providing essential pre-clinical data on which to base future clinical studies. Depending on the results obtained, these will be submitted to ANVISA for evaluation in order to enable the production and marketing of the product, once approved. The proposal therefore aims to develop more effective, safe and affordable treatments to accelerate tissue repair and treat joint degeneration, generating significant economic and social benefits for the Brazilian population by reducing treatment and hospitalization costs, as well as improving the quality of life of affected patients. In view of the results achieved and the complexity of the biological responses involved, it is proposed that this project be continued, with complementary analyses being carried out to deepen the understanding of the biomaterial's mechanisms of action, with a view to strengthening its translational and clinical application. In addition, it is worth noting that the biomaterials have been produced using national raw materials and technology, which could guarantee a reduced final cost, making the treatment accessible to a greater number of people.