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376-1714-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC , NDS D-HEST , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ITET , D-MATL , D-CHAB , D-BIOL , D-GESS
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Biocompatible Materials

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Marcy Zenobi-Wong, Prof. Dr. Katharina Maniura, Dr. Markus Rottmar
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:43

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.
Extra task, if successful, rewarded with 0.25 bonus points (added to the grade of the final/session exam): writing of an abstract for a pre-selected scientific publication.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Biocompatible Materials
Vorlesung 13-15h Übungen/Gruppenarbeiten 15-16h
  • Wed 12:45-15:30 (HIL E 1)
3 h weekly

Offered In