POLINA

Unprecedented photolithographic structuring of novel light-sensitive poly(amino acid) materials– a paradigm shift in delivering biocompatible devices

Period: 01/01/2024 – 31/12/2027

Funding scheme: HORIZON-EIC – HORIZON EIC Grants – PATHFINDER

Coordination: Royal College Of Surgeons In Ireland

Website: https://polina-project.eu/

Abstract: Amino acid photopolymerisation and lithographic structuring for biocompatible medical implants

Photolithography has revolutionised microelectronics, enabling the creation of high-performing miniature devices. It could also prove invaluable in the development of implantable medical devices and drug discovery using appropriate biocompatible materials. To address this, the EIC-funded POLINA project will integrate a novel light-sensitive poly(amino acid) platform with emerging photolithographic patterning techniques to develop technology suitable for medical devices and next-generation green electronics. The viability of this innovative technology will be demonstrated in three specific examples related to lung diseases: micropatterned cell-surface models, spheroid arrays for lung disease modelling and drug testing, and tracheal implants.