Towards MXenes’ biomedical applications by high-dimensional immune MAPping

Project Information

MX-MAP

Grant agreement ID: 101086184

DOI

10.3030/101086184

EC signature date 10 October 2022

Start date 1 November 2022

End date 30 April 2027

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 1 389 200,00

Coordinated by

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PADOVA
Italy

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - MX-MAP (Towards MXenes’ biomedical applications by high-dimensional immune MAPping)

Reporting period: 2022-11-01 to 2024-10-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The MX-MAP project is an innovative initiative addressing global health challenges by leveraging the unique properties of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, specifically MXenes, for biomedical applications. Collaborating across leading academic and industrial partners from Europe, North America, and Asia, MX-MAP integrates interdisciplinary expertise to bridge critical gaps in MXene biocompatibility and immune interactions.

The project aims to develop a functional pipeline for MXene immune characterization, enabling their safe use in therapies such as cancer photothermal/photodynamic treatments, regenerative medicine, targeted drug delivery, and antibacterial strategies. By advancing material synthesis, functionalization, and characterization, MX-MAP drives research excellence while fostering the next generation of researchers through hands-on training and collaboration.

The outcomes—scalable MXene production, immune profiling tools, and novel therapeutic applications—will contribute to Europe’s strategic priorities in healthcare innovation, positioning the EU as a leader in nanotechnology and biomedical research while improving global health outcomes.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The MX-MAP project has achieved significant progress in advancing the understanding and application of MXenes for biomedical purposes. The project’s technical and scientific activities have been executed across multiple work packages (WPs), focusing on the synthesis, functionalization, characterization, and application of MXene-based materials.

1. Synthesis and Functionalization of MXenes
A series of MXenes, including Ti-based (Ti2C, Ti3C2, Ti3CN) and non-Ti-based variants (Nb2C, V2C), were synthesized and functionalized for biomedical applications.
2.Immune Characterization and Profiling
MXenes' immunocompatibility was thoroughly evaluated through ex vivo immune profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and macrophages from humans and mice. A
3. Biomedical Applications
- Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy
- Targeted Drug Delivery
- Tissue Regeneration
- Antibacterial Properties
4. Advanced Imaging and Biodistribution Studies
Transient absorption microscopy and stimulated Raman scattering techniques were employed to localize MXenes in biological samples. In vivo biodistribution studies using mice are progressing to further understand the materials' safety and biological interactions.
5. Collaborative Network and Training
The project has fostered an extensive international and interdisciplinary network, facilitating secondments and knowledge exchange among academic and industrial partners.
6. Publications and Dissemination
The MX-MAP consortium has contributed over ten peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, showcasing breakthroughs in MXene applications for cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and antibacterial strategies.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The MX-MAP project has delivered several groundbreaking results that significantly advance the application of 2D MXene materials in biomedical science. These innovations not only address current scientific and technical limitations but also open new pathways for further research, clinical translation, and commercialization.

Pioneering Immune Profiling of MXenes
For the first time, a comprehensive pipeline for immune characterization of MXenes has been established. This pipeline integrates advanced single-cell immune profiling techniques to map the biocompatibility and immune interactions of MXenes.

Breakthroughs in Targeted Therapy
The development of MXene-PDA-antiCEACAM antibody complexes demonstrates unprecedented progress in targeted cancer therapy.

1. Regenerative Scaffolds with Integrated Conductivity
MX-MAP introduced electrically conductive electrospun scaffolds based on PCL-MXene composites.

2. Enhanced Imaging Techniques for Nanomaterials
The application of transient absorption microscopy and Raman scattering techniques has provided unprecedented resolution in visualizing MXenes' behavior in biological systems.

3. Scalable Production and Functionalization
The project has laid the foundation for scaling up MXene synthesis with consistent quality.

4. Potential Impacts and Future Pathways
MX-MAP’s results address key societal challenges, offering transformative solutions in cancer therapy, tissue regeneration, and infection control.