Development of bioadaptive materials for health promotion and enhanced healing

We aim to develop bioadaptive materials that function in response to the biological environment, based on various materials, including calcium phosphate nanoparticles and thin layers immobilizing functional substances (see the next theme). By focusing on the development of materials and technologies for dental care and treatment as well as early cancer diagnosis and treatment, we aim to promote well-being and healthy longevity in society.

Development of fabrication techniques for functional calcium phosphate nanoparticles and thin layers

Calcium phosphates, including apatite, are biocompatible and safe materials. Calcium phosphate nanoparticles and thin layers that immobilize various functional substances, such as bioactive proteins, drugs, and imaging agents, can be fabricated from supersaturated solutions. However, this technique is associated with the following challenges: difficulties in controlling the structure and composition of the final product and the requirement of complex and time-consuming procedures. We aim to address these issues by combining conventional methods with molecular and laser technologies. The synthesized nanoparticles and thin layers can exhibit a variety of biological functions depending on the characteristics of the immobilized functional substances, making them promising candidates for application in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biochemical reagents, and quasi-drugs.

Nanoparticles with high reactivity are expected to enhance the functionality of sensors in biomarker detection. However, nanoparticles exhibit structural instability and low dispersibility. We aim to address these challenges through the fine morphological control of nanoparticles. For example, we have synthesized niobium oxide nanoparticles with a sea urchin-like structure that show high reactivity, structural stability, and dispersibility, enabling the detection of trace amounts of biomarkers. Our goal is to extend healthy life expectancy through the development of advanced sensors and non-invasive wearable health-monitoring devices.

• Leader, Group

  Maki NAKAMURA

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• Senior Researcher

  Wuxiao DING

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• Senior Researcher

  Teruaki FUCHIGAMI

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• Researcher

  Tomoya INOSE

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• Researcher

  Erika ONUMA

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• Attached to the Research Division　
  Principal Research Manager

  Ayako OYANE

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