BIO-GRAFT (Bioinspired alveolar GRaft for Functional Tissue regeneration)

Bone regeneration remains a major challenge, particularly in complex fractures where conventional grafts often fail due to poor integration and lack of mechanical adaptability. Current grafts provide stability but do not replicate the biomechanical environment needed for natural bone remodeling and osteointegration. We have developed BIO-GRAFT, an innovative scaffold that mimics the hierarchical mechanical behavior of bone and provides dynamic stimulation to enhance osteoblast activity and bone formation. By integrating shape-memory polymers stabilized through plasma polymerization, BIO-GRAFT achieves adaptability, adhesion, and long-term performance, opening a new avenue for regenerative medicine.

The clinical need is significant: each year, 177 million fractures occur globally, with 10% progressing to nonunion due to poor osteointegration. These complex cases highlight the limitations of current solutions and represent an urgent unmet need, particularly in pediatric fractures. T

The BIO-GRAFT project aims to bring the technology from proof of concept (TRL 3) to system prototype demonstration in a relevant environment (TRL 6–7). Key objectives include prototype optimization, evaluation of biomechanical cues for cell recruitment and differentiation, in vivo testing in calvarial defect models, and preclinical assessment of surgical feasibility. In parallel, the project will define a regulatory pathway, secure intellectual property, and establish a business strategy to enable clinical translation and market adoption. This project is part of the AGAUR Producte program (Ref 2025 PROD 00275), with the participation of Institut Químic de Sarrià and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu.