Research
• protein analytics
• molecular biology / design of molecules
• recombinant protein production („white biotechnology“)
• functionalization and modifcation of proteins
• process technology (spinning, casting, coating, microfluidics, 3D printing/biofabrication a.o.)
• cell biology
Due to morphological variability, outstanding mechanical propterties, biocompatibility, biodegradability, as well as ease of functionalization biopolymers as spider silk and mussel collagens posess a huge appllication potential. The Chair of Biomaterials acts as an link between industry and scientific research, developing innovative high-performance materials for technical and medical applications. The scope of applications ranges from fine dust filter materials, special textiles, to cosmetics, wound repair, implant coating and drug delivery systems. Financial support is acknowledged by: Europäische Union (EU EFRE) | Deutsche Forschungsgesellschaft (DFG) | Fonds der Chemischen Industrie | Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung (BMBF) | US Army Research Office | Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Umwelt und Gesundheit (StMUG)Biofabrication is an interdisciplinary research field with the aim of generating functional tissue constructs. The basic components therefor are cells, matrix materials and growth factors. Principles and methods from medicine, natural sciences and engineering are combined to develop and apply a fundamental understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of tissues.
Cell-based assays are an important part of biomaterial research for medical applications, as they allow conclusions to be drawn on cell viability and adhesion. Therefore, our research group focuses on the interaction and behaviour of a wide variety of cells and materials, at simulated body conditions and under the influence of electrical, chemical or mechanical stimuli.
The focus of this research group is the production of functional and high-performance fiber materials based on proteins. Fiber, yarn und fiber mats are produced using the following processing technologies: wet-, electrostatic- and biomimetic spinning as well as microfluidics.
Application of the self-assembly principles to control nano- and micro scaled structuring of biomaterials is in focus of our group.
The research group “Protein Assembly and Processing” deals with research and development of various processing methods of protein materials and their applications.
This research group is focusing on production and analysis of recombinant spider silk proteins and their application-specific modification.
The group uses computer simulations and numerical methods for studying polymer and filament networks, colloid-polymer suspensions, and colloidal quasicrystals. Furthermore, we investigate solid state materials for alternative energy materials like thermoelectrics and thin film solar cells.
Working group Salehi focuses on developing and combining advanced biomaterials with microfabrication techniques. Designing and application of micro and nano features have been evaluated to engineer complex and functional tissue constructs. The modified structures will show improved physical, mechanical and biological properties.