SupraLife
Unlocking the scientific excellence and innovation capacity of the University of Aveiro in supramolecular multicomponent biomaterials for enabling advanced biomaterials for healthcare
Period: 01/01/2023 – 31/12/2025
Funding scheme: HORIZON-AG – HORIZON Action Grant Budget-Based
Coordination: University of Aveiro
Website: supralife.eu
Biopolymers, naturally occurring molecules made of shorter monomers, include proteins and polysaccharides. Scientists have harnessed these biocompatible and biodegradable molecules for important medical applications, but their performance is often hindered by limited bioactivity, stimuli responsiveness and mechanical properties. Integrating biopolymers with self-assembling motifs could overcome barriers. Self-assembly – the non-covalent association of materials’ subunits into highly ordered patterns and structures – is a route to unique dynamic properties and (multi)functionalities not attained with conventional synthetic chemistry. The EU-funded SUPRALIFE project will create an international scientific and training network to enhance innovation capacity at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, regarding developing innovative supramolecular multifunctional biomaterials to interface with living systems.