Simone Silva, a researcher at I3Bs – the Institute for Biodegradable and Biomimetic Materials at the University of Minho, based at Avepark, is developing innovative medical devices for the treatment of chronic wounds as part of the SMART-HEAL project – Smart nature-based architectures as platforms for wound care, funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT).
The project takes a sustainable and scientifically advanced approach, combining natural ingredients with recognized therapeutic properties, such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and curcumin, with biomaterials like chitosan and cellulose derivatives. The aim is to create a range of medical devices adapted to different stages of diabetic foot disease, capable of hydrating wounds, preventing infections, controlling inflammation, and promoting more effective healing.
According to Simone Silva, all therapeutic processes will be managed in an integrated manner, enabling the development of differentiated products with high clinical efficacy. As the project progresses, the researcher aims to attract partner companies to conduct clinical trials and facilitate the market introduction of these devices, enhancing their potential impact on healthcare and patients’ quality of life.
The work was recently highlighted on Antena 1’s program “90 Seconds of Science,” where Simone Silva presented the progress and ambitions of SMART-HEAL.
This project further underscores Avepark’s role as a hub of scientific and technological innovation, hosting cutting-edge research with real societal impact and supporting the development of solutions based on science, sustainability, and knowledge transfer.
