Bioinspired polymers for...
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...Biolubrication
Synovial joints exhibit excellent lubrication and wear resistance upon a large range of pressures and shear rates. Cartilage surfaces are able to slide on each other with extremely low friction coefficients in healthy and physiological conditions. These remarkable properties are the results of synergistic interactions that occur between the molecules implied in synovial joints such as agrecan (AG), lubricin (LUB) or hyaluronic acid and the type-II collagen fibrillar organization constituting the cartilage matrix (Figure 1.). However, nowadays, no treatments have been found to treat degenerative diseases affecting synovial joints such as the most common one: the Osteoarthritis. In this project, we want to develop synthetic cartilage to treat damaged areas and synovial fluid as a viscosupplementary fluid using biocompatible polymers. To reach these goals, we are mimicking AG and LUB structures into polymeric structures and test them in terms of nano-tribology and toxicity. We are also formulating nano-strucutured hydrogels composed of an interpenetrated network allowing strong mechanical resistance and controlled synovial fluid release under load and shear.
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...Bioadhesion
Myelin membrane repair mediated by bio-inspired multi-block copolymers:
Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) is the most abundant protein in myelin and its essential function is to promote adhesion between myelin membranes. Small changes in myelin structure can lead to dramatic losses of myelin insulating properties as it happens in multiple sclerosis disease (MS). Mechanical deterioration of the myelin sheath is also commonly observed after injuries of the central nervous system and, as for MS, often leads to paralysis. This research intends to develop a treatment to stop the adverse effects of myelin deterioration by designing polymers able to repair membrane damage and promote adhesion between myelin membranes. The design of these polymers will be inspired by MBP unique architecture and tested first on model membranes such as vesicles and supported membranes and latter on model animals.
