SILKER (DCM.AD007.239)

Thematic area

Chemical sciences and materials technology

Project area

Structure responsible for the research project

Institute for organic syntheses and photoreactivity (ISOF)

Project manager

VINCENZO PALERMO
Phone number: 051 6399773
Email: direzione@isof.cnr.it

Abstract

The SILKER project aims to develop innovative bioactive and biobased 2D and 3D scaffolds (films, micro and nanofibers, nanoparticles and sponges) of potential interest in tissue regeneration. Natural proteins as keratin and fibroin, extracted from waste wool and Bombyx Mori cocoons respectively, will be used as matrices and will be loaded with bioactive compounds having antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The bioactive compounds will be extracted in water from various renewable biomass relying on the main principles of circular economy.

Goals

1) Preparation of 2D and 3D scaffolds (films, micro and nanofibers, nanoparticles and sponges) at different loadings of bioactive compounds.
2) Characterization of the obtained materials in terms of mechanical, thermal and optical properties, stability, swelling and biodegradability.
3) In vitro release studies of the bioactive compounds from the protein matrix at different pH conditions (physiological or pathological conditions).
4) Validation in vitro of their biocompatibility and antioxidant activity by using different cells lines such as keratinocytes, fibroblast and osteoblasts. The adhesion and proliferation of cells will be also investigated.
5) Validation in vitro of their antimicrobial activity by using different bacteria such as S. aureus ATCC25923 and E. coli ATCC25922.
6) Production of at least 2 biocompatible materials per type with performing antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Start date of activity

01/11/2021

Keywords

natural polymers, renewable biomass, tissue regeneration

Last update: 24/04/2025