Optical sensors for responsive implants (B03)

• Subject Area: Dentistry, Oral Surgery ; Biological and Biomimetic Chemistry ; Measurement Systems
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 426335750

Implants equipped with optical sensors will be developed in subproject B03 to enable for the first time external implant monitoring and objectifiable detection of infections by the attending physician, which is decisive for early diagnostics and successful therapy. Detection of implant-associated infections is carried out using ATR sensors to detect signal molecules. Generated signals are transmitted externally via optical fibres and analysed spectroscopically. Further detection will be achieved by means of chemo-optically active decoration and fibre-optic chemosensors. For evaluation of activated sensor systems, an experimental adaptive multispecies biofilm model to reproduce bacterial dysbiosis will be developed.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 298: Safety Integrated and Infection Reactive Implants
• Applicant Institution: Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Alexander Heisterkamp; Dr. Katharina Nikutta; Professor Dr. Thomas Scheper