The ESCULAPE project has achieved substantial progress in developing MXene-based and polymeric materials for biomedical and wearable applications across multiple work packages.
Synthesis and Functionalization
- MXenes were synthesized and incorporated into electrospun PLA, PCL, and chitosan membranes, as well as fabric substrates. Functionalization strategies improved electrical conductivity, stability, and biocompatibility, enabling their use in biomedical systems.
Material Characterization
- Materials were thoroughly characterized using advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques (SEM, TEM, AFM, Raman, XRD, FT-IR, EDX). Mechanical testing and biodegradation analyses confirmed reproducibility and suitability for biomedical use.
Preclinical Biomedical Applications
- Electroconductive scaffolds were assessed with iPSC-derived cells and organ-on-chip systems for cardiac and neural applications. The materials supported cell growth and differentiation, while in vivo testing of cardiac patches showed biocompatibility and regenerative potential.
Wearable Technologies
- MXene-modified fabrics were developed into prototypes of flexible electrodes and sensors, demonstrating good conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and stability for future wearable biomedical devices.
Collaboration and Training
- The project strengthened cooperation among academic and industrial partners through secondments and joint research, offering training in nanomaterial fabrication, characterization, and tissue engineering.
Scientific Output and Dissemination
- ESCULAPE generated peer-reviewed publications on MXene-based membranes, scaffold biocompatibility, and applications in regenerative medicine and wearable electronics. Early-stage researchers actively contributed to dissemination and methodology development.
