Ion‐release materials to promote angiogenesis on dermal regeneration
nAngioDerm will develop nanostructured ion‐release platforms and devices that promote the in situ regeneration of damaged skin without the need of cells or growth factors.
nAngioDerm’s innovative approach is based on the controlled release of bioactive ions (Zn2+, Ag+, Ca2+) from biodegradable polymeric nanocarriers, which will be developed using a nano‐precipitation deposition and layer‐by‐layer coating technique. These bioactive ions will promote cell recruitment and colonisation and provide an antibacterial effect, as well as triggering the synthesis of angiogenic factors and extracellular matrix components that will facilitate reepithelisation, and therefore, wound healing. Depending on the type of skin injury, the ion‐releasing nanocarriers will be: 1) combined with 3D printed collagen‐based scaffolds as filling and guiding biomaterials for chronic wounds such as diabetic or pressure ulcers; or 2) dispersed in a spray or microgels based on a thermo‐responsive collagen gel for acute wounds related to burns.
The development of these devices relay on the biological mechanisms of action and the validation previously elucidated, and the use of nanotechnology that will facilitate the applicability to the medical needs being free from cells, biological factors and antibiotics. Consequently, the devices and platforms proposed here will be subjected to fewer regulatory constraints ad they will be assessed in vitro and in suitable preclinical in vivo models as per EMA guidelines, bringing them to technology readiness level 5 close to clinical translation and market transferability stages.
The nAngioDerm project will recruit researchers with a transferable and multidisciplinary skillset to enable them to adapt quickly to the challenging needs of the medtech sector and affording them rapid ascent to key leadership positions in the field. In the long‐term, the technologies developed will be implemented in other clinical areas, resulting in increased European‐based knowledge, innovation, competitiveness and leadership in the field.