Tailoring bioactive glass antimicrobial activity: combining mechanical and chemical action

Bioactive glasses (BG) are widely used in biomedical applications, particularly due to their antimicrobial effects against various bacteria. This antimicrobial activity is primarily attributed to the chemical interactions driven by the release of ions from the glass, which alter the local environment, such as increasing pH and osmotic pressure. It is well established that the glass composition plays a critical role in determining its structural characteristics, which in turn influence key physico-chemical properties. In this project, we aim to develop a deeper understanding of how compositional variations affect the structure of BG and, in turn, govern their physical, chemical, and biological behavior. Additionally, the mechanical contribution of glass morphology, including particle size, shape, and surface sharpness, will be investigated to determine their role in the overall antimicrobial performance of BGs. The insights gained from this study will contribute to the rational design of next-generation bioactive glasses with optimized and targeted therapeutic functionalities.

PhD start: 02/25/2025