Hydrogels and Soft Biomaterials
Hydrogels are highly hydrated polymer networks whose mechanical and biological properties can be finely tuned. At LBO, we design hydrogels with enhanced toughness, adhesion, and controlled degradation for use in demanding environments such as cartilage repair. By adjusting chemistry and microstructure, we tailor their response for specific regenerative and protective applications, including:
- Orthopedics – injectable, adhesive hydrogels to repair osteochondral defects and slow cartilage degeneration.
- Bone regeneration – bioactive injectable gels to strengthen osteoporotic bone and prevent fragility fractures.
- Soft-tissue engineering – hydrogel solutions for airway stabilization (e.g. tracheomalacia).
- Drug delivery and biointerfaces – hydrogels that provide structural support and controlled therapeutic release.
- Vision restoration – patient-specific hydrogel-based corneal augmentation.
- Protective systems – energy-dissipating gels for impact mitigation.
To ensure the safety and performance of our biomaterials, we perform a range of biological, biochemical, cellular, and histological analyses. These tests assess the biocompatibility, metabolic activity, and integration of scaffolds and hydrogels when in contact with soft and hard tissues—including cartilage, trachea, epithelial layers, and bone. These multidisciplinary analyses provide essential validation of how engineered materials interact with living systems.
Collaborations:
- Dr. Robin Martin, Orthopedics and Traumatology Service, CHUV
- Dr. Kishore Sandu, Airway Unit, Service of Otorhinolaryngology, CHUV
- Dr. François Gorostidi, Airway Unit, Service of Otorhinolaryngology, CHUV
- Prof. Lee Ann Laurent-Applegate, Director of Cellular Therapy Unit, CHUV
- Dr. Alexis Laurent, LAM Biotechnologies SA
- Prof. Philippe Büchler, ARTORG, University of Bern
- Dr. Ferda Canbaz, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Basel
Valorisation:
- Spin-off: flowbone SA
