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Biocompatible Materials
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:01:33
Abstract
Introduction to molecules used for biomaterials, molecular interactions between different materials and biological systems (molecules, cells, tissues). The concept of biocompatibility is discussed and important techniques from biomaterials research and development are introduced.
Objective
The course covers the follwing topics: 1. Introdcution into molecular characteristics of molecules involved in the materials-to-biology interface. Molecular design of biomaterials. 2. The concept of biocompatibility. 3. Introduction into methodology used in biomaterials research and application. 4. Introduction to different material classes in use for medical applications.
Content
Introduction into natural and polymeric biomaterials used for medical applications. The concepts of biocompatibility, biodegradation and the consequences of degradation products are discussed on the molecular level. Different classes of materials with respect to potential applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery and for medical devices are introduced. Strong focus lies on the molecular interactions between materials having very different bulk and/or surface chemistry with living cells, tissues and organs. In particular the interface between the materials surfaces and the eukaryotic cell surface and possible reactions of the cells with an implant material are elucidated. Techniques to design, produce and characterize materials in vitro as well as in vivo analysis of implanted and explanted materials are discussed. A link between academic research and industrial entrepreneurship is demonstrated by external guest speakers, who present their current research topics.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Handouts are deposited online (moodle).
Literature
Literature: - Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine, Ratner B.D. et al, 3rd Edition, 2013 - Comprehensive Biomaterials, Ducheyne P. et al., 1st Edition, 2011 (available online via ETH library) Handouts and references therin.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 90 minutes
- Aids
- No aids are allowed at the exam, exept an English/German dictionary.
- Digital
- The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Biocompatible Materials
Vorlesung 13-15h
Übungen/Gruppenarbeiten 15-16h
|
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
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Engineering for Health (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson)
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Bioengineering (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
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Elective Courses (The students are free to choose individually from the entire course offer of ETH Zürich on the Master level. Please consult the study administration in case of questions.)
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Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Biomechanics track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
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Track Core Courses (During the Master programme, a minimum of 12 CP must be obtained from track core courses.)
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Track Core Courses (During the Master programme, a minimum of 12 CP must be obtained from track core courses.)
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Core Courses (376-1622-00L Practical Methods in Tissue Engineering (offered in the Autumn Semester) and 376-1624-00L Practical Methods in Biofabrication (offered in the Spring Semester) are mutually exclusive to be eligible for credits.)
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Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
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