The Biomaterials Laboratory of the Institute of Clinical Physiology of the CNR (IFC-CNR) deals with the development and characterization of polymeric biomaterials and biomedical devices, mainly for cardiovascular applications. The devices are manufactured using spray technology based on phase inversion by Advanced spray-machines in clean room class 100. The devices are characterized by evaluation of biocompatibility in vitro (through cell cultures and vitality and proliferation assays) and in vivo (through subcutaneous implantation in small animals and histological analysis), haemocompatibility (platelet and coagulation system activation), chemical properties (infrared analysis FT-IR/ATR) and mechanical properties (uniaxial tensile test and fatigue tests).
The studies are carried out in the framework of national and international projects and collaborations with research institutions and leading companies in the biomedical sector.
Particular importance is given to small diameter vascular prostheses, patches for skin application and heart valves, such as a patented one-body polymer heart valve, which has entered the animal testing phase.
The cluster network provides a large panel of services and products for the growth of life sciences in Tuscany.
Here you can find an updated list of the facilties and equipments that the Cluster network makes available for the development of business projects and research activities.
The updated map with all members of the Cluster. Here you can find contacts of companies, research groups and organisations connected to the Tuscany cluster.
