Exploring Slime as versatile composition for multipurpose spherical structures
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) has made a significant breakthrough in the field of biomedical engineering with the development of a new type of hollow microspheres. These microspheres, made of mucus and polydopamine, have the potential to revolutionize the packaging of therapeutic substances for various medical conditions.
The research, published in the journal Small with the DOI number 10.1002/smll.202503238, was conducted by a team led by Di Fan, Professor of Biopolymer Materials at TUM. The team also included Chiara Gunnella, Yukun Wang, Luca Reichert, Pedro Henrique da Rosa Braun, Jan Torgersen, and Oliver Lieleg.
These hollow microspheres adhere effectively to soft tissue and cartilage, making them ideal for targeted delivery of therapeutic substances. The microspheres' surface is porous, allowing cargo to enter by diffusion. This feature, combined with the microspheres' ability to be adjusted regarding their pore size, makes them versatile and adaptable to a wide range of applications.
One of the key advantages of these microspheres is their ability to act as a natural lubricant. This property could potentially be used in the treatment of conditions such as osteoarthritis and oral ulcers. The choice of material for sealing the microspheres influences their effects. For instance, silver ions promote cell death, while polydopamine promotes cell protection. A range of materials can be used to partially seal the microspheres, with silver ions being particularly effective.
The production method for these microspheres is simple and scalable, ensuring their widespread availability for potential medical applications. The microspheres remain structurally stable during production, further enhancing their utility.
The Technical University of Munich, with its global presence and numerous academic disciplines, is well-positioned to lead in the development of innovative biomedical solutions. TUM has campuses in Singapore, Beijing, Brussels, Mumbai, San Francisco, and São Paulo, in addition to its main campus in Munich. TUM is also home to the TUM School of Engineering and Design, one of the world's top universities for research, teaching, and innovation.
Each year, over 70 start-ups are founded at TUM, contributing to Munich's thriving high-tech ecosystem. For media inquiries regarding this study, please contact Carolin Lerch, Media Relations at TUM Corporate Communications Center, at tel. +49 (0) 89 289 10808 or [email protected].
Oliver Lieleg, who conducts his research at the TUM Center for Functional Protein Assemblies (CPA) and the Munich Institute of Biomedical Engineering (MIBE) at TUM, is the driving force behind this groundbreaking research. Lieleg's work focuses on the development of new materials for biomedical applications.
With its innovative research and commitment to advancing medical technologies, the Technical University of Munich continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of biomedical engineering. The development of these hollow microspheres is a testament to TUM's dedication to improving human health and well-being.
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