ZIBIO

The Group in Science and Engineering of Polymeric Biomaterials (ZIBIO group) focuses its research activities on the development of new polymeric biomaterials with potential application in the field of biomedicine. We are a multidisciplinary team committed to research activities and undergraduate/postgraduate students training. /n Research in ZIBIO group includes the study and development of (co)polyesters based on polylactides and (macro)lactones on which our current four research lines are based. The multiple and multidisciplinary tasks for the development of these new systems of biodegradable polymeric biomaterials with advanced functionalities will provide us knowledge in molecular nanotechnology (Synthesis-Characterization-Advance Processing), in nanomedicine (Chemistry-Biology) and in in vitro and in vivo cell and animal models required in the field of Tissue Engineering. The research lines are (1) Functionalizable (Co)polyesters with improved thermo-mechanical properties: Development of novel copolyesters and stereocomplexes with new functionalities, (2) Polymer blends with drugs and bioactive molecules: Development of smart solid platforms with improved bioavailability of drugs and biologically active molecules, (3) Nanostructured polymers and nanocomposites: (3.1) Development of electroactive nanostructured scaffolds for neural and bone tissue engineering, (3.2) Development of hybrid systems with improved toughness and functionalities (radiopacity, magnetic, antibacterial) and (4) Hybrid polymeric systems with advanced functionalities: Development of micro/nano-particles and nanocapsules with advanced functionalities for combinatorial therapies.