Introduction

Biomaterials hold a significant importance for therapeutic, diagnostic and other biomedical applications. These are substances which can be engineered to interact with biological systems to support, reinforce or replace damaged tissue. With recent advances in the ability to manipulate polymers for diagnostic purposes has enabled researchers in fabricating novel vectors. The research also focuses in using cutting edge technology of design prototypes augmenting medical devices.

Biomaterials for therapeutics and diagnostics

This research focuses on developing cavity filled polymeric micro and nano particles for imaging and sustained release. We fabricate hollow particles with ultrasound contrast agents and magnetic mico/nanoparticles using emulsion evaporation method. Additionally, these particles filled with potential drugs are also used as delivery vehicles to the target site. We aim to explore the therapeutic efficacy of different biodegradable polymers alone or when coupled to form hybrids. Researchers and students will have the opportunity to explore physicochemical properties of these biomaterials and further investigate itsin vivo applications.

3D printing of Prosthesis

The research aims on designing & developing 3D printed models for porthesis. We designed the implants like dental implants,knee implants using CAD software. The designed implants are modelled by 3D printing.We would like to design & explore the clinical outcomes of knee implants and bionic arm in near future. Researchers and students possess a plethora of possibilities to design customised prosthesis & implants.

Improved medical devices

We envision developing improvised medical devices that can assist physicians, clinicians to carry out diagnosis smoothly. We also aim to integrate wireless technology for better reach and data collection. The research involves developing assisted devices for clubfoot in infants and young children, wireless stethoscopes for doctors, non-invasive devices for monitoring blood glucose, Color sensor based therapeutic device for psoriasis skin disease, 3D printers and improved leukodepletion blood filter technology. Students have competed in events at national level (SIH and NIC) and successfully incubated their prototypes.

Patents:

1. Provisional Indian Patent had been filed on “MULTI CONTROL ELECTRIC WHEELCHAIR”

2. Provisional Indian Patent had been filed on “ADJUSTABLE CLUBFOOT CORRECTIVE SPLINT”

3. Provisional patent “voice assistive wheelchair for paraplegic patients.”