Working group Surfaces
Matrices (WORKING GROUP Surfaces, Direction: Prof. Klee, Aachen)
The topic complex of the Project area B (Biointerface-Biofunctionalisation of surfaces) concerns the development of nano and microstructured, biofunctional material surfaces in order to specifically control the biological mechanisms of cells or tissue. This requires experience in the use of surface modifications. The mechanism of the three-dimensional growth is not only controlled by the biointerface but also by the existing three-dimensional structure of the construct. Here knowledge in the area of polymer synthesis is stipulated in order to develop functionalised matrices with defined polymer properties. Consequently, a working group was formed of the corresponding experts who are dedicated to the topics “Functionalised surfaces” and “Functionalised matrices” and whose purpose is summarised in the figure shown below.
Scientists in the disciplines Chemistry, Biology and Physics (Subprojects: A5, B1, B2, B3, C1, C2, C3, C4) have exchanged information on the methods used for surface modification, the surface-sensitive analytics used as well as the polymer matrices developed as part of the telephone conferences and the working group meetings on the fringes of the internal SFB colloquia at various locations. These events served not only to exchange experience but also provided an important contribution to the education of the doctoral candidates participating in the SFB/Transregio 37.
The result was that the related technical terminology was to be conveyed to all of the researchers involved in the SFB/Transregio 37. This took place at the “Transdisciplinary Dialogues” with the presentation “Surfaces/Matrices – Technical terminology and its meaning”. Parallel to this, devices for surface-sensitive analytics available at the SFB research sites were covered and stored as files on the generally accessible servers. Within the framework of the workshop “Surfaces/Matrices” held on 16th April 2010 in Hannover, the results of the applied surface modifications and developed matrices in the respective subprojects as well as the exchange with other subprojects were presented.
As an example of a successful cooperation between subprojects, Subproject A5 developed a silicone-based matrix for the controlled release of dexamethason which was also able to be used in Subproject C4 for the equipage of cochlear implants.
In the next appropriation period, the Working group will continue its work with regard to networking for the transfer of knowledge on the newly developed processes for surface modification and matrices for three-dimensional substrates. In particular, the newly involved doctoral students will also offer a corresponding workshop in this Working group. Additionally the Working group will intensify its function as consultant in the selection of suitable analysis for the characterisation of biofunctionalised surfaces and matrices.