802301 Biomaterial interfaces and interactions

Type
Lecture
Semester hours
3
Lecturer (assistant)
Reimhult, Erik
Organisation
Offered in
Sommersemester 2025
Languages of instruction
Englisch
Content

This lecture series provides a detailed overview of man-made organic and inorganic biomaterials, with emphasis on the interaction of solid materials with biological systems. It does not require completion of the course “H802300 Biological Nanoscience and Nanotchnology”, but “Biologically inspired materials and interfaces” is meant to deepen the understanding of the material H802300 and to provide more detailed insights into its current practical implementation in the area of biointerface and nanobiomaterial science. Some overlap of entry level material will be given to allow new students to attend the course.
The students will start from the basic principles guiding interaction of biomolecules with each other and foreign materials to build an understanding of the hierarchy of events that determines the fate of biomaterials (e.g. implants, biosensors and drug delivery vehicles) from the molecular to the tissue level. Particular focus will be given to how design concepts found on the nano and microscale in biological systems can be re-engineered and applied to future man-made (bio)materials. The course emphasizes understanding of the many techniques used to characterize biomaterial interfaces and interactions, and how they influence our current understanding of biomaterial performance and design. The course further in detail covers strategies and state-of-the-art solutions to control the biological response of materials and surfaces using biological and synthetic surface modifications. The students will learn how to apply and evaluate such strategies to applications ranging from implants, to biosensors and anti-fouling (anti-microbial) surfaces, by studying examples of state-of-the-art techniques.
One section of the course will deal with the design and interaction of colloidal nanomaterials with biological environments, e.g. the design of nanomaterial properties for drug delivery, imaging and biosensing. An introduction to the emerging regulatory framework for application of nanomaterials, its complications and consequences is given, as well as an introduction to what is currently known about “nanotoxicity”.
Previous knowledge expected

Basic knowledge in Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics.
Completion of the course “H802.300 Biological Nanoscience and Nanotchnology” is advantageous, but not required.
Objective (expected results of study and acquired competences)

After the course the students will have a detailed understanding of the physical and chemical principles guiding biomolecular interactions with interfaces, and how biointerfaces form with foreign matter over many length scales (molecular to tissue). They will understand the evaluation criteria for controlling the responses of materials with biological and medical applications and to critically assess techniques used for their characterization. The students will acquire state-of-the-art knowledge of strategies to control the biological response of implants, anti-microbial interfaces and biosensors. In particular, the students will be introduced to the physical and chemical design of nanomaterials for biomedical and biotechnological applications ranging from biosensors to in vivo application of drug delivery vehicles and imaging contrast agents. They will have acquired an understanding of risks and regulations specific for nanomaterials in biology and the environment.
You can find more details like the schedule or information about exams on the course-page in BOKUonline.