A team of researchers with complementary expertise of the Field of Research Biocompatible and Bioactive Surfaces at the Leibniz Institute for Surface Engineering (IOM) has set itself the goal of establishing innovative TiO₂ nanotube scaffolds as an economical product on the tissue culture platform market. Under the direction of Prof. Dr. Stefan G. Mayr, the focus is on the development of an alternative product for long-term cultivation of various adult tissues. A corresponding project has now been approved within the framework of the "Validation Funding" program of the Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) and the European Regional Development Fund. This funding will be used to bring the scaffolds to market maturity.

The structure and function of a fully grown tissue can so far only be preserved with great difficulty outside the body. On conventional filter inserts, sensitive tissues usually die after a few hours or days, cells migrate out of the tissue association and the tissue literally disintegrates. Sophisticated scaffold structures, so-called scaffolds made of titanium dioxide, are intended to solve this problem: the tissue can adhere extraordinarily well to millions of tubes arranged next to each other in the nanometer range. It is permanently supplied with a nutrient medium and can thus be kept alive for many days up to several weeks and months if the diameters of the nanotubes are correctly adjusted. Compared to conventional methods, this innovative cultivation principle also offers an environmentally conscious, resource-saving and cost-effective alternative.

Duration: 2021-2022
Funding: 196.635,00 Euro
Funding programme: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)

Contact:
Sabrina Friebe
Field of Research Biocompatible and Bioactive Surfaces / Biofunctional surfaces and nanoobjects
Phone: +49 (0)341 235-2688
E-Mail: sabrina.friebe(a)iom-leipzig.de

Astrid Kupferer
Field of Research Biocompatible and Bioactive Surfaces / Biofunctional surfaces and nanoobjects
Phone: +49 (0)341 235-2682
E-Mail: astrid.kupferer(a)iom-leipzig.de

Prof. Dr. Stefan Mayr
Head of the Field of Research Biocompatible and Bioactive Surfaces
Phone: +49 (0)341 235-3368
E-Mail: stefan.mayr(a)iom-leipzig.de