Bacteria Biofilm as bio-factory for tissue regeneration

Introduction

BIOACTION aims at developing a new methodology in implant technology based on functionalized bio-hydrogels that will convert the negative occurrence of biofilm-associated infections, the primary cause of implant infections and failure, into a positive resource.

Objectives

The main goal of BIOACTION is to transform implant-associated bacteria for the programmable production of specific proteins for in vivo cell recruitment and tissue regeneration. This will be achieved by exploiting gene sequences loaded on engineered liposomes and phages, which are bound to hydrogel scaffolds.

Development of Biomimetic Substrates

BIOACTION will develop new biomimetic substrates that can transform biofilm into extracellular matrix for the regeneration of target tissues. It will establish a highly versatile technology to be used as:

• Injectable materials
• Implant coatings for periodontal and peri-implant infection treatments

Validation

The proposed approach will be validated in two clinically relevant animal models:

1. Dental implant
2. Permanent transcutaneous bone

Impact

BIOACTION would radically advance the future of infection treatment by revolutionizing classical approaches, leading to:

• Improvement of state of care
• Enhanced health outcomes
• Significant socio-economic benefits

Interdisciplinary Nature

The project is strongly interdisciplinary in nature, involving expertise in:

• Biomaterials
• Synthetic biology
• Phage and liposome technology
• Medicine

Conclusion

As a result, this innovative approach will bring the research and knowledge far beyond the current state-of-the-art. It will lead, through the planned validation, to proof-of-concept of new materials and techniques with broader applications in regenerative medicine.