Project Leader: Dr. Luminita Marin
Funding programme: PNCDI IV - 5.7 - Partnership for Innovation
Subprogram: 5.7.1 Partnerships for Competitiveness Subprogramme
Contract Authority: The Executive Unit for the Financing of Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation (UEFISCDI)
Project: PN-IV-P7-7.1-PED2024-2447
Project title: Dynamic hybrid chitosan collagen hydrogel for wound healing
Acronym: ChitoColWound
Project duration: 24 months
Budget: 746162 lei
This project combines the complementary expertise of ICMPP (chemistry and biomaterials science) and DELTAROM (engineering and biology) to develop a dynamic hybrid chitosan–collagen hydrogel crosslinked with natural bioactive aldehydes. The hydrogel is designed for wound dressing applications and has potential for broader dermato-cosmetic uses.
The hydrogel leverages reversible imine bonds (Schiff bases) formed between natural monoaldehydes and amine groups of both naturally originated polymers. These bonds self-assemble into clusters that act as crosslinking nodes, providing self-healing, injectability, and controlled release of bioactive components. The biodegradable nature of chitosan and the dynamic chemistry of imine bonds enable:
- Sustained release of collagen to support tissue regeneration.
- Delivery of chitosan oligomers to modulate oxidative stress and stimulate key cells in the healing process.
- Release of bioactive aldehydes to provide antimicrobial and antioxidant activity.
By combining the structural and regenerative properties of collagen with the therapeutic benefits of chitosan, this hydrogel aims to promote functional tissue recovery and scar-free healing. The project focuses on scalable, safe, and market-relevant formulations, integrating cutting-edge biomaterials chemistry with engineering and biological validation to advance next-generation wound care solutions. | 
