Lactose-derived biomaterials for biomedical applications
Discover advanced lactose-based biomaterials, including hydrogels and polymers, for biomedical applications. This innovative approach enhances lactose's market potential by chemically modifying it to create biocompatible materials suitable for cell culturing, 3D-printing, and drug release.
Overview
Our research focuses on transforming lactose into advanced biomaterials, particularly hydrogels and polymers, for biomedical applications. By chemically modifying lactose with reactive functional groups, we aim to expand its use in creating biocompatible materials. These materials are ideal for applications in cell culturing, 3D-printing, and controlled-drug release, offering significant commercial potential.
Technical specifications
- Chemical modification: Lactose is chemically altered through a secondary amine bond, introducing reactive functionalities.
- Material synthesis: Modified lactose (m-L) is used to produce various polymers and hydrogels.
- Applications: Suitable for cell culturing, 3D-printing, and controlled-drug release due to enhanced biocompatibility and potential for cross-linking in polymerization processes.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Future work will focus on scaling up production and further evaluating the functional properties of the developed materials.
About American University
American University is a comprehensive private R1 research university in Washington, DC, recognized for translating scholarship into public impact. On campus, the Hall of Science offers modern wet and dry labs, complemented by a library makerspace for rapid prototyping. Entrepreneurial support includes an incubator housed in the business school, while a research translation center formalizes pathways to industry sponsorship, commercialization, and external partnerships; the DC setting further accelerates access to federal agencies, NGOs, and policy bodies. Research is supported by competitive federal funding, including the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. A published intellectual property policy, disclosure process, and mentoring partnerships strengthen commercialization and collaboration with corporate R&D teams.
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