The “Laboratory for Adaptive Materials” aims at employing colloidal chemistry to fabricate inorganic nanomaterials with responsive features to support tissue regeneration. We work from the nano- to the millimeter scale to design bio-inspired and bio-mimetic colloidal systems that can interface with semi-synthetic tissue models to explore novel regenerative approaches.

Chiral plasmonic nanoparticles

Analogous to chiral molecules, chiral inorganic nanoparticles exist in enantiomeric forms that are non-superimposable, defined by the precise spatial arrangement of their atomic building blocks. We interface chiral plasmonic nanoparticles and cells to explore particle-cell interactions and cellular responses.  

Semi-synthetic nerve tissue

Nerves play a crucial role in transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When nerves are injured, these signals may be disrupted, leading to a range of symptoms. Despite ongoing research, finding effective treatments and interventions remains challenging. We employ additive manufacturing techniques (3D bioprinting) to design new semi-synthetic models of nerve tissue and find solutions to repair it.

Functional nanomotors

Nanomotors (aka nanobots, nanoswimmers or active colloids) are a class of adaptive materials that can respond to external stimuli or chemical cues to self-propel outperforming Brownian motion. We are interested in designing nanomotors that can move in biologically relevant environments and help in tissue regeneration.