When a tooth fails to function, due to a cavity, accident, or aging, an implant is considered as the final method. Although implants are widely executedtooth, it requires re-operation if the initial Osseo-integration is not completed within time. A POSTECH research team has exploited the constituents from mussels and a diatom to coat and manipulate the roughness of the surface of an implant and promote the implant to settle in quickly between ulitis.
Professor Cha Hyung-joon (CE) and Doctor Jo Yoon-ki engaged in a collaborative research project with Professor Kim Chang-seop’s research team from Yeungnam University; and used an adhesive protein and biosilicification mechanism to invent a new inorganic hybrid biocompatible coating material. Adhesive protein is secreted by mussels that cling to rocks, and biosilicification mechanism is necessary for a diatom to build a protective layer on its body. This new material is known to greatly enhance the success rate of implants by helping Osseo-integration. It is also expected to be utilized for patients with deteriorated ulitis due to aging, osteoporosis, and other ailments.
The research results have been published on the cover thesis of Advanced Materials.