The biomedical module deals with the potential health effects of the use of engineered nanomaterials. New nanomaterials can indeed lead to pioneering developments in pharmacology, medical testing and medical equipment. Synthetic medicines based on nanoparticles open the doors for a new generation of multifunctional drugs. They combine new properties with those of conventional drugs, diagnostic and therapeutic devices. One possible approach involves transporting small doses of active agents directly to the desired part of the body, thus creating a stronger therapeutic effect with less side-effects. A further area of application are implants or bone-substitute materials, whose mechanical and immunological properties can be optimised through nanoparticles. In this context, nanoparticles can enter the body, stay there or be released, which can in turn cause unintended effects besides those that are intended. The eleven projects of the biomedical module thus should lead to the development of new toxicity tests and innovative approaches for assessing risks.
Carbon coated nanomagnets and their in vivo lifecycle
Prof. Beatrice Beck Schimmer
Nanoparticles in biodegradable implants: distribution and effects in brain tissue
Prof. Martin Frenz
Risk analysis of inhaled nanoparticles by in vitro technology
Prof. Marianne Geiser Kamber
Biomimetic nanofibre reinforced bone substitute composites
Dr. Reto Luginbühl
Nanopharmaceuticals against chronic inflammatory bowel disease
Dr. Caroline Maake
Analysis and fate of nanoparticles in the lung and expected biological effects
Dr. Michael Riediker
Biomedical nanoparticles as immune modulators
Prof. Barbara Rothen-Rutishauser
Novel nanoparticles for efficient and safe drug delivery
Prof. Francesco Stellacci
Nanoparticle transport across the human placenta
Dr. Peter Wick