DAEDALUS · ADvAnced 4D biomAteriaLs for mucosa and sub-mUcosa treatment in patients affected by intestinal diSeases

4D biomaterials enable new surgical treatments by autonomously acting in response to environmental stimuli, thus overcoming the limitations of standard medical strategies. DAEDALUS has the ambitious goal to develop two advanced 4D composite biomaterials designed to facilitate the re-epithelization of the colorectal mucosa and submucosa after their removal. Thus, DAEDALUS will provide an effective solution for addressing pathologies related to colorectal mucosa and submucosa, which are currently managed through proctocolectomy (removal of colon and rectum), a surgical procedure associated with drastic side effects. DAEDALUS biomaterials will combine synthetic and natural polymers (also derived from waste sources), with smart nano- and micro-carriers/particles. With the support of in silico tools, the biomaterials will be tailored to re-epithelize the mucosa and submucosa, adhere to each other and to the underlying muscle, and enable the release of oxygen, glucose, growth factors, and antibacterial and antifibrotic molecules. Moreover, the mucosal formulation will feature a shape morphing behavior triggered by a combination of magnetic field and light to mimic the colorectal mucosal crypts. To enable in situ printing of DAEDALUS biomaterials and provide the required stimuli, a multifunctional endoscope with a customized toolhead will be designed and validated ex vivo and in vivo. Throughout the project, the clinical translation of the DAEDALUS solutions will be continuously sought through: i) scaling up of the manufacturing routes by industrial partners, ii) feedback and acceptability from surgeons within the consortium, iii) social acceptance by patients and public. Moreover, the EU regulation framework will be identified to guarantee safe and effective solutions. Collectively, DAEDALUS will introduce a minimally invasive alternative to proctocolectomy and is expected to have a high impact on the quality of life of patients affected by colorectal pathologies.