Periodic Reporting for period 1 - NOMAD (Novel biomaterials to prevent dental peri-implant infections)
Reporting period: 2022-12-01 to 2024-05-31
Despite the high success rate for dental implant procedures, a high number of patients develop peri-implant infections, which can ultimately lead to implant instability and bone loss. Microorganisms sticking to implant surface and forming recalcitrant biofilms are a particular point of concern. NOMAD is a EU-funded research and innovation collaborative project aimed at developing the next generation of dental implants that can prevent peri-implant diseases, consequently improving the long-term success of implants while simultaneously reducing the socio-economic burden associated with these diseases in Europe. To tackle these pressing clinical challenges, NOMAD will implement a range of biomaterial innovations across different components of dental implants (including implant fixture, abutment, and restoration). These innovations will involve modifying the current titanium (Ti) implants and emerging zirconia (ZrO2) implants with materials designed to reduce the risk of infection (and associated inflammation), improve soft-tissue sealing at the gum line, and promote osseointegration.
In NOMAD, titanium and zirconia were selected as candidate materials for dental implants, and various surface modification strategies were applied to enhance their properties, with WP1 focusing on the development of biological coatings and WP2 on the implementation of smart release concepts for antimicrobial agents. A workflow for sample sterilization has been established, and samples are being evaluated for biomechanical stability following relevant ISO standards in WP3. This includes testing durability against sterilization and forces exerted during implantation and use, ensuring long-term stability of the dental implants. In WP4, experimental protocols for cytotoxicity testing have been established, and samples are undergoing initial screening to guide the biomaterial development. Advanced in vitro models have been optimized, and the first samples have been analyzed using co-culture models. Further sample transfer and evaluation are ongoing. Preparations are being made to scale up production and generate preclinical efficacy data withing WP5 in the next phase of the project. Finally, in WP6, a detailed cost-benefit analysis for the new dental implant biomaterials is underway, including regulatory analysis and technology transfer options.
At month 18, NOMAD is evaluating its first set of results, including significant dissemination activities. NOMAD is pursuing a ground-breaking concept for prevention of peri-implant diseases by focusing on multifunctionalisation of the surfaces of the dental fixture, abutment and restoration, attaining various osseointegration-promoting, soft-tissue sealing, and/or antimicrobial/anti-biofilm properties. The project's comprehensive biomechanical and complex (thus more representative) in vitro testing will ensure the durability, safety, and effectiveness of the developed biomaterials. Market and IP monitoring, pricing strategies, and commercial viability of the technologies will be assessed by conducting a regulatory analysis and cost-benefit study and will help prepare market adoption after the end of the project. Application areas beyond dental implants are being explored to maximize the impact of the developed technologies.