Date added: 2024-11-25
The Future of Implants: Dr. Łukasz Pawłowski's Work Recognized by PTM
“This is a great honour for me and the culmination of my research efforts during my doctoral studies. The award confirms the scientific value and potential practical applications of my work. It also serves as motivation for further scientific development and continuing efforts to create innovative solutions in the field of biomedical materials,” said Dr. Łukasz Pawłowski.
Response to the Environment
Dr. Łukasz Pawłowski's research focused on designing, manufacturing, and characterizing composite coatings on titanium surfaces. These coatings were deposited using the electrophoretic deposition method, with precise control of process parameters such as the concentration of suspension components, voltage, and deposition time. The primary goal was to develop coatings that remain stable in a neutral environment but respond to lowered pH levels by releasing silver nanoparticles with antibacterial properties while maintaining the osteointegration capabilities of the surfaces.
"The silver nanoparticles used act as an antibacterial agent, released in a controlled manner under conditions of reduced pH, typically associated with inflammation around implants. The coating production process was based on the electrophoretic deposition method—a technique that enables precise application of composite coatings onto metallic surfaces, even those with complex shapes. This method was chosen to achieve uniform, well-adhered coatings with the desired properties," he explains.
Ongoing Research
In his doctoral research, Dr. Łukasz Pawłowski focused on designing and producing coatings based on chitosan—a natural polymer that, when combined with other components such as poly(4-vinylpyridine) (P4VP) or Eudragit, demonstrates sensitivity to acidic environments.
The research included detailed analyses of the coatings' microstructure, surface roughness, and wettability, corrosion resistance testing, controlled degradation tests in simulated body fluids, evaluations of antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity studies. These were conducted in collaboration with the Medical University of Gdańsk and the University of Erlangen in Germany.
Applications in Medicine
These smart coatings have potential applications in implants, particularly in hip joint endoprostheses and dental implants. They could significantly reduce the risk of postoperative infections, which are one of the leading causes of complications associated with implants. Preventing such complications not only reduces the need for implant removal but also decreases reliance on antibiotic therapies, which is particularly critical given the growing issue of antibiotic resistance.
"In addition, using a chitosan-based matrix in combination with P4VP and Eudragit helps avoid the 'burst release' phenomenon—a sudden release of a large dose of active substance, which could be toxic to the patient. This approach ensures a gradual and safe release process, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of the implants," explains the researcher.
Dr. Pawłowski emphasizes the significance of this work, noting that its practical application in medicine could greatly improve the quality of life for patients undergoing implant procedures.
Dr. Łukasz Pawłowski defended his doctoral dissertation in September 2023 under the supervision of Professor Andrzej Zieliński.
