Biomaterials for tissue engineering research
We work on engineered novel bio-polymers made with natural substances or of synthetic nature so they can become responsive materials that are liquid at room temperature and turn to gels in the body. These gels are formulated to carry human cells and instruct them to regenerate tissues such as bone and cartilage. In this field, we work closely with mechanical engineers to study the mechanical properties of healthy tissues and better mimic them with our materials that work as scaffolds for tissue engineering. This collaboration also extends to additive manufacturing such as 3D printing and other manufacturing techniques such as electrospinning.
Through collaboration with industry, we work at developing products that will be used in the repair of damaged tissue, in particular cartilage, bone, tendons and muscles.
Our work is supported by a number of industrial partners that include small and medium size companies in the area of biomaterials and tissue engineering, and bigger pharmaceutical companies.
Current research topics
- Biomimetic scaffolds for tissue regeneration
- Electrospun scaffolds for regeneration of the muscle-tendon junction
- Synthesis of biomimetic hydroxyapatite for bone regeneration applications
- Development of antibacterial polymers and composite materials to combat biofilm formation
Collaborations
- NTL Biologica
- Biocera
- Haleon
- GSK
- University of Sassari, Italy
- Technology University of Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Publications highlights
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Soft substrates direct stem cell differentiation into the chondrogenic lineage without the use of growth factors
Roncada, T., Bonithon, R., Blunn, G. and Roldo, M., (2022) “Soft substrates direct stem cell differentiation into the chondrogenic lineage without the use of growth factors”, Journal of Tissue Engineering.
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Enhancing the antibacterial effect of Chitosan to combat orthopaedic implant-associated infections
Rahayu, D. P., De Mori, A., Yusuf, R., Draheim, R., Lalatsa, A. and Roldo, M., (2022) “Enhancing the antibacterial effect of Chitosan to combat orthopaedic implant-associated infections”, Carbohydrate Polymers.
Research groups
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Advanced Materials for Diagnosis and Therapy Research Group
We're researching the bioactive molecules and biocompatible materials for their potential use as drug carriers, bioadhesives, surgical implants and more.
Our members
Dr Marta Roldo
Discover our areas of expertise
Biomaterials for tissue engineering is one of areas of expertise in the Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences research area. Explore the others here.
Diagnostics
We develop novel technologies for disease diagnosis at an early pre-symptomatic stage using a synergistic combination of gold nanostructures and unique Raman spectroscopic techniques
Nanomaterials for Drug and Gene Delivery
We're helping to create targeted, safe and effective medicines to positively impact patients' lives.
Theory, Modelling and Drug Design
Discover how our research identifies new drug molecules and improves drug design
Pharmacy Practice
We're working to improve the practices, selection, use and disposal of pharmaceuticals to protect the environment, and we're promoting the vital role pharmacists can play in delivering better care to patients.
Interested in a PhD in Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences?
Browse our postgraduate research degrees – including PhDs and MPhils – at our Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences postgraduate research degrees page.