Technologies

Organotypic models of ovarian cancer are 3D models containing defined extracellular matrices, such as collagen and fibronectin, ovarian cancer cells with specific genetic/molecular characteristics, and one or more cancer-associated stromal cell types (fibroblasts, mesothelial cells, endothelial cells) to mimic specific metastatic niches of ovarian cancer (omentum, peritoneum, interstitial stroma) and the complex interactions within tumor tissues.

A biosensor based on magnetic microspheres functionalized with a DNA-aptamer was developed for the specific biomonitoring of biological contaminants (mycotoxins) in urine.

AIDD is an integrated tool and a radically new way to discovery new drugs for neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Ageing, etc.).

The final technology will add polarimetric capability to imaging cameras in the NUV/optical, providing simultaneous measurements of the different polarization states of the light. This will be obtained by the development of an innovative coating based on nanostructured emissive materials sensitive to the polarization of the incident light. A  double layer film of two organic systems will be coupled to image detectors so that the two polarization components of the incoming light are converted into two different colors.

VisLab laboratory of IMM possesses a latest generation Raman micro-spectroscope equipped for vibrational measurements with high spatial and spectral resolution, at controlled temperature and in fast-imaging. The apparatus can be used to collect information and chemico-physical maps without the need for sample preparation and alteration, therefore for non-destructive studies and in operating conditions.

At IFN-CNR, in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano-Department of Physics, we have developed Raman microscopy approaches compatible with the study and characterization of biological and industrial samples. In detail, our facility houses a self-built spontaneous confocal Raman microscope with the following characteristics: two excitation lasers (660nm and 785nm), inverted microscope (Olympus IX-73) and Princeton spectrometer / CCD.

Lifeshell is an anti-seismic furniture construction concept, which can be used for making wardrobes, tables, desktops, beds. It’s made by timber based panels: highly resistant and flexible, relatively lightweight and inexpensive. Lifeshell benefits from the natural wood elasticity and from smart connections for dissipating the great impact energies occurring during an earthquake. Lifeshell has been designed for resisting partial building collapses, and to provide a safe shell where inhabitants can find refuge.

The aim of the research group is the creation of 3D models (microorgan/ organoids) constructed using samples obtained from patients, both biopsy samples and samples collected with non-invasive techniques (exhaled breath condensate, induced sputum, blood samples).

Celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity affect a large portion of the world population. Furthermore, the percentage of people who adopt the gluten free diet is constantly increasing because it is perceived to be healthier. We have previously developed a food grade enzymatic procedure (transamidation) for wheat flour capable of making gluten unable to induce the inflammatory response in the intestine of celiac disease patients.

The study of proteins is typically limited to notions, sometimes with the aid of virtual 3D models, obtained from visualization programs. A knowledge of this type, although useful, limits the ability to acquire a more direct knowledge, almost never leads to awareness of dimensions, and is particularly difficult for those who do not have a strong capacity for three-dimensional imagination.

The proposed technology is about the development of an innovative sunscreen obtained from cod fish bones, according to the principles of the circular economy. The sunscreen is a reddish powder, which is constituted of hydroxyapatite (a calcium phosphate main component of human bones) modified with iron. It is prepared with a simple and easily scalable process (treatment of the bones in Fe solution and successively at T = 700 oC) and could be adapted for bones of other fishes. 

EXPO is a software for the determination of the atomic structure of various materials (organic, metallorganic, inorganic), available in the form of microcrystalline powders, in order to derive the structure-property relationships. EXPO requires the molecular formula of the material, the experimental X-ray diffraction data and, in some cases, the expected molecular geometry.

QUALX is a software for qualitative and semi-quantitative phase analysis of materials (organic, metallorganic, inorganic), available in the form of microcrystalline powders. It uses a database distributed together with the software. QUALX identifies the crystalline chemical phase, one or more of than one, present in a material and determines approximately the weight percentages of each phase present in a mixture.

X-ray imaging techniques can work in i) "full-field mode" in which the object to study (or part of it) is completely illuminated by the X-ray beam; ii) "scanning mode" in which an X-ray beam, focused through an opportune optics, illuminates in succession contiguous areas of the sample under examination, and the transmitted wave is measured by a detector placed at a proper distance from it. One of these X-ray scanning microscopes is available at the facility (X-ray MicroImaging, XMIL@b) of the Institute of Crystallography (CNR-Bari).