Medical device-associated infections remain one of the most significant challenges in modern healthcare. Microbial colonisation of biomaterial surfaces and biofilm formation frequently lead to chronic infections, prolonged hospitalisation, increased healthcare costs, and severe complications for patients. The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance further limits the effectiveness of conventional therapies and highlights the urgent need for new long-term infection control strategies.
The BIO-METONIC project aims to develop a new generation of multifunctional biomaterials designed to reduce microbial colonisation, prevent infection development, maintain biocompatibility, and support tissue regeneration and implant integration.
The research builds upon recent advances in functional nanomaterials and biomineralisation, focusing on the development of advanced nanostructured coatings for biomedical applications. A major emphasis is placed on designing stable and functional nanocomposite systems capable of providing long-lasting antimicrobial activity while minimising the risk of microbial resistance development.
The project includes the development and optimisation of novel functional materials, their integration into biocompatible polymer systems, and their application onto surfaces relevant for biomedical use. The research encompasses preparation and characterisation of functional nanomaterials, development of nanostructured coatings and fibrous systems, investigation of surface and mechanical properties, evaluation of antimicrobial performance, assessment of biocompatibility and cytotoxicity, and development of bioactive surfaces for improved implant integration.
A key strength of the project lies in its highly interdisciplinary approach, integrating materials science, chemistry, nanotechnology, microbiology, and biomedical engineering. This enables the development of advanced biomaterials combining antimicrobial, bioactive, and regenerative functionalities within a single platform.
BIO-METONIC builds upon the previous research activities of the research group in antimicrobial surfaces, biomineralisation, and functional nanomaterials. The project benefits from expertise developed through international collaborations and projects focused on safe and biocompatible medical surfaces. Previous research demonstrated strong antimicrobial performance while maintaining favourable biocompatibility, providing a strong foundation for the proposed work.
The project brings together an interdisciplinary international research team from Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria with expertise in material synthesis and characterisation, functional surface engineering, advanced analytical methods, microbiological testing, biocompatibility and cytotoxicity assessment, and biomineralisation processes.
The research is carried out at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, Croatia’s largest multidisciplinary research institute, in collaboration with international partners and supported by advanced research infrastructure. The project also contributes to the education of young researchers, international mobility, and the strengthening of scientific collaborations in the field of advanced biomaterials.
The expected outcomes of BIO-METONIC include the development of next-generation biomedical coatings and materials for regenerative medicine, implantology, and advanced medical technologies. In the long term, the project aims to contribute to reducing medical device-associated infections, improving patient safety, and supporting sustainable strategies against antimicrobial resistance.
