| Topic 1. Concept of nanomedicine |
Nanoparticles in biological environments, biocompatibility, stability and aggregation. Functionalisation of nanomaterials and their application to nanomedicine. Routes of administration of nanomaterials, advances and drawbacks and obstacles to overcome. Cellular traffic. Biological barriers. Smart nanomaterials: applications in therapy and diagnostics... Nanomaterials and immune response |
| Topic 2. Nanodiagnosis in vitro: nanosensors and integrated devices |
Nanodiagnosis: Introduction to medical diagnosis. Biosensors and integrated devices of medical interest. Biosensors: definition, characteristics and applications. Bioreceptors and analytical nanodevices. Biomarkers. Diagnostic techniques based on immunoassay (Dot blot, Western blot, ELISA, flow cytometry, laminar flow). Diagnostic techniques based on plasmonic sensors (SERS, SEF, FRET). Diagnostic techniques based on microfluidic platforms (lab on a chip) |
| Topic 4. Tissue nanotechnology. Nanofabrication and characterisation of scaffolds |
Gels and self-assembled systems. Composites. Supercritical fluids and aerogels. Electrospinning and bioprinting. Tissue engineering. Introduction to regenerative medicine: regeneration processes, fibrosis, scaffolding vs. implant. Cell modulation through biomechanics, cell adhesion, roughness and nanostructure. Active substance delivery systems with application in regenerative medicine: conventional drug delivery systems, sustained release of proteins, gene therapies. |
| Topic 6. Nanotoxicology |
Topic 6. Nanotoxicology. Toxicity of nanoparticles. Blood compatibility. Routes of exposure. Accumulation and deposition of nanoparticles in tissues. Measures to reduce nanoparticle toxicity. Environmental effects of nanoparticles. FDA e EMA regulation of nanobiotechnology products. |
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