Researchers at the University of Galway are leading an international effort to develop new biodegradable medical implants.
The BIOMEND programme aims to develop biomaterials for vascular implants such as stents that gradually degrade when implanted in the body.
This kind of next generation implant could reduce the long-term complications associated with existing devices.
The programme will be led by Dr Ted Vaughan, Associate Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Principal Investigator in the Biomechanics Research Centre at the University of Galway.
He will be working with his colleague Professor Peter McHugh, and in close partnership with Dr Alexander Kopp, founder of Meotec Gmbh, located in Aachen, Germany, a world-leader in the production of biodegradable metal alloys for medical applications.
The Horizon Europe project is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions scheme, and is structured as a mixed research and training programme.
“We are delighted to receive this funding, which allows us to bring together leading experts from across Europe to develop the next-generation of biodegradable implants,” Dr Vaughan said.
“Our goal is to develop a range of endovascular stent implants that reduce the risk of long-term complications and improve patient outcomes.”
The BIOMEND consortium includes a wider group of 18 international research and academic partners working towards this goal.
