Imagine a smart 3D printer that works inside the body to fix damaged gut linings. Instead of removing the entire colon through major surgery, this tech prints a special material that changes shape and releases medicine to regrow the tissue. It's like applying a high-tech, living bandage that molds itself to the organ's natural structure.
Patients with severe colorectal diseases currently face proctocolectomy, a drastic surgery with severe side effects. There is a lack of minimally invasive options to regrow the intestinal lining without removing the organ.
Two 4D composite biomaterials and a multifunctional endoscope with a customized toolhead for in situ printing.
If you are an endoscopy equipment manufacturer dealing with the lack of active surgical tools for tissue repair — this project developed a multifunctional endoscope with a customized toolhead that enables in situ printing of biomaterials.
If you are a drug delivery system developer dealing with inefficient localized treatment of intestinal diseases — this project developed smart nano- and micro-carriers that release oxygen, glucose, and growth factors directly into the mucosa.
If you are a polymer science SME dealing with the need for sustainable medical plastics — this project developed 4D composite biomaterials combining synthetic and natural polymers, including those derived from waste sources.
Based on available project data, there is no information regarding the specific cost or pricing of the biomaterials or the endoscope.
The project includes 6 industrial partners specifically tasked with scaling up the manufacturing routes for the 4D biomaterials.
Based on available project data, the specific licensing terms are not listed, but the project involves a consortium of 14 partners across 8 countries to develop the technology.
The project will identify the EU regulation framework to ensure the solutions are safe and effective for clinical use.
The project runs from 2025-06-01 to 2029-05-31, suggesting a development and validation window of four years.
The consortium is well-balanced for commercialization, featuring a 43% industry ratio with 6 industrial partners, including 3 SMEs. This mix of 5 universities and 3 research centers across 8 countries suggests a strong pipeline from academic discovery to industrial scale-up.
Contact the Università di Pisa research office regarding the DAEDALUS project.
Contact SciTransfer to connect with the 6 industrial partners scaling this 4D biomaterial tech.
