LIPID AND LIPOPROTEIN ADSORPTION AT BIOMATERIALS AND BIO-DIAGNOSTICS INTERFACES. This project aims to investigate molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of undesired biological deposits on synthetic materials and thereby help establish the scientific basis for the rational design of materials with improved compatibility with biological fluids and the engineering of a new generation of biomedical implant devices and bio-diagnostic devices. It is well known that proteins accumulate on synt ....LIPID AND LIPOPROTEIN ADSORPTION AT BIOMATERIALS AND BIO-DIAGNOSTICS INTERFACES. This project aims to investigate molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of undesired biological deposits on synthetic materials and thereby help establish the scientific basis for the rational design of materials with improved compatibility with biological fluids and the engineering of a new generation of biomedical implant devices and bio-diagnostic devices. It is well known that proteins accumulate on synthetic solid surfaces. This project proposes to investigate whether lipids and lipoproteins also play key roles in the initiation of biological adsorption processes. Combined with the study of the interfacial forces responsible, this information will guide the design of preventative strategies.Read moreRead less
Advanced Intramedullary Nailing Systems. The proposed project is aimed at developing advanced orthopaedic implants (intramedullary nails and associated locking screws) commonly used for bone fracture repair. These new generation metallic implants will be developed using a comprehensive research approach centred on physico-chemical and mechanical properties investigations. A new generation of intramedullary nailing systems with superior design and mechanical properties (small diameter and high st ....Advanced Intramedullary Nailing Systems. The proposed project is aimed at developing advanced orthopaedic implants (intramedullary nails and associated locking screws) commonly used for bone fracture repair. These new generation metallic implants will be developed using a comprehensive research approach centred on physico-chemical and mechanical properties investigations. A new generation of intramedullary nailing systems with superior design and mechanical properties (small diameter and high strength) and improved bone fixation is the key expected outcome. The knowledge generated in the project is expected to lead to the growth of the Industry Partner (Austofix). Training of a world class researcher in the multidisciplinary field of biomaterials will be an additional outcome.Read moreRead less
Covalent Immobilisation of Growth Factors on Plasma Modified Titanium for Achieving Enhanced Bone Growth and Bonding in Implant Prosthetics. This project is aimed at improving the fixation of titanium implants by combining the surface technologies expertise of University of South Australia and Flinders University with TGR BioSciences's growth factors expertise. Plasma modified and hydroxyapatite-coated implant surfaces will be used for covalent immobilisation of growth factors via tethers with ....Covalent Immobilisation of Growth Factors on Plasma Modified Titanium for Achieving Enhanced Bone Growth and Bonding in Implant Prosthetics. This project is aimed at improving the fixation of titanium implants by combining the surface technologies expertise of University of South Australia and Flinders University with TGR BioSciences's growth factors expertise. Plasma modified and hydroxyapatite-coated implant surfaces will be used for covalent immobilisation of growth factors via tethers with tailored wettability and flexibility. This innovative strategy is expected to yield high retention of growth factor bioactivity and increased bone-implant integration for long-term implant stability. Knowledge, expertise and techniques developed will help TGR BioSciences expanding its research base and business. Training of students in the emerging field of nano-biotechnology will be another major outcome.Read moreRead less
Nanoengineered gradient substrata as a novel approach for understanding infection mechanisms. This project will advance our understanding of how bacteria colonise surfaces and will also inform the development of novel antibacterial coatings and diagnostic tools for device-associated infections, which have a significant impact on patients and are a huge burden to the healthcare system.