Imagine a smart gel that doctors can inject directly into a broken bone. Instead of using permanent cement or risky grafts, this gel acts like a temporary scaffold that slowly disappears as the real bone grows back. It also carries medicine that only releases when triggered, helping the bone heal faster and preventing infections.
Current bone fracture treatments rely on permanent cements that can leak or donor grafts that risk rejection and viral transmission. There is a critical need for bio-absorbable, targeted delivery systems that promote natural bone regrowth.
Injectable self-solidifying hydrogels and surface-functionalized micro/nano-particles for triggered drug release.
If you are an orthopedic implant manufacturer dealing with the risks of bone cement leakage and poor healing—this project developed self-solidifying hydrogels that provide a safer, bio-absorbable alternative for vertebral fractures.
If you are a drug delivery specialist dealing with systemic side effects of medication—this project developed surface-functionalized micro- and nano-particles that release pharmaceutical agents locally upon external stimulation.
If you are a sustainable polymer producer dealing with high waste and toxic chemicals—this project developed scalable manufacturing using renewable biomaterials and machine learning to optimize production.
Based on available project data, specific pricing is not provided, but the project aims to develop cost-effective formulations using renewable biomaterials.
The project uses machine learning, predictive life cycle assessment, and safe design methods to demonstrate scalable and sustainable biomaterial manufacturing.
Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not mentioned, though the project involves 6 industry partners, including 6 SMEs, which typically suggests a commercialization path.
The project runs from 2025-06-01 to 2029-05-31, suggesting that validated formulations will be available toward the end of this period.
The hydrogels are designed to be injectable, meaning they can be delivered via minimally invasive procedures to treat vertebral and alveolar bone fractures.
The project features a strong commercial orientation with 13 partners, maintaining a high industry ratio of 46%. With 6 SMEs and 6 universities across 7 countries, the consortium balances academic research with industrial scalability and market access.
Contact the Universitat Politècnica de València regarding the HYDROHEAL consortium
Contact SciTransfer for detailed partnership opportunities with the 6 industry SMEs in this project.
