Biomaterial Research

Excellent Research Outcomes & Leading Partnership 

  Joon Hwang Ph.D.

1. Excellent Research Outcomes of 4D Convergence Technology Institute’s the first phase (’2021-’2023) 

In the first phase (2021-2023) of MOE Project, 4D Convergence Technology Institute as the National Key Technology institute in University created 45 excellent SCI papers, 21 Q1-level top level papers, 68 academic presentations, 13 key patents, 23 human resource development projects, and 3 billion won in research funds, and aims to continuously leap forward as a global leading research institute in the field of functional biomaterials. 

4D Bio-convergent materials are next-generation biomaterials that combine the new concepts of ;

< Durable (sustained efficacy), Dynamic (biocompatibility), Directional (target disease orientation), Dimensional (drug manufacturability) > to overcome the limitations of existing biopharmaceutical materials. They are being applied to various biomedical application fields such as patient-tailored drug delivery systems (DDS), diagnostic treatment strategies, and medical device development.

1-1. Durable Research Group’s Key Issues and Outcomes : 

Here are some of the key issues and excellent research achievements of each research team at the 4D Institute. First, the key issue of the Durable research team is how to effectively increase bioavailability. To this end, we are interested in the design and development of nano-carriers that can control the PK characteristics in terms of ADME to suit the diagnosis and treatment purposes of target diseases or syndromes. 

In order to develop target-oriented gene therapy, we selected nonviral vectors for safer and more effective genome delivery, and developed oral gene delivery technology that combines a structure (PST) that combines taurocholic acid and protamine sulfate, which can effectively control insulin secretion in the intestine while complementing the high degradation characteristics of GLP-1, and GLP-1 (pDNA), a multimodal gene complex, and achieved a 20% bioavailability by improving the absorption rate in the small intestine. 

1-2. Dynamic Research Group’s Key Issues and Outcomes : 

The Dynamic Research Team is pursuing the development of safer and more effective disease specific probiotics based on its experience in systematic genome sequencing and microbiome library construction. In particular, we are developing treatments using microphages, endolysins, and lysins through genetic recombination, including cutibacterium acne, which has a close impact on chronic inflammatory diseases. 

1-3. Directional Research Group’s Key Issues and Outcomes : 

The Directional research team is conducting research on bioactivity characteristics and mechanisms to maximize the antibacterial effect of harmful bacteria using LEDs and developing an antibacterial system. In addition, they are conducting research to identify the correlation between dietary conditions/age, gender, diabetes, sarcopenia, and various other diseases through cohort studies. 

1-4. Dimensional Research Group’s Key Issues and Outcomes :

 Pore Size-Dependent Stereoscopic Hydrogels Enhance the Therapeutic Efficiency of Botulinum Toxin for the Treatment of Nerve- Related Diseases The Dimensional research team has been developing materials and platform technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, osteoporosis, and neurological diseases using magnetic nanoparticles, iron oxide, graphene, CNT, and QD. Through the development of silver nanoparticle-graphene-iron oxide conjugated particles and prostate-derived exosomes, we have developed hybrid exosomes with magnetic properties and have been developing biosensing agents that can be used for radiographic monitoring. In addition, through the development of a porous hydrogel based on CMC-BDDE hydrogel for botulinum toxin, we have enabled optimized sustained-release administration of drugs for up to 150 days, and have shown excellent results in terms of cytotoxicity, hemocompatibility, and pathology, showing stable profiles.

2. Leading Partnership for Global Top Class Biomaterial R&BD Cooperation 

The 4D Convergence Technology Research Institute, together with Harvard Medical School, is promoting the establishment of a joint research center for global research cooperation on the topic of advanced drug delivery systems and biomaterial theragnostic strategies for innovative diseases. 

As international joint research topics, it is promoting the development of original technologies for biomaterials for diagnosing and treating incurable diseases, research on drug delivery platforms, AI-based new drug development, and fostering professional talents through exchanges and joint research between global scholars, operation of exchange student programs, and hosting international seminars. 

The 4D Convergence Technology Research Institute and the 4D Biomaterial Industry Center jointly successfully held the 1st Korea-USA International Symposium on Biotechnology at the International Hall of Korea National University of Transportation from May 31 to June 1, 2024. The sponsors of this symposium are ChungBuk Province, KNUT, CBIST and ChungBuk Knowledge Forum.

In symposium the precious topics presented the state of the art for biotechnology for drug delivery and nanomedicines. Rational design of carriers for oral biologics delivery, Oral delivery of protein/peptide using active transport, Bioengineering cell-based therapeutics from benchside to bedside, Carrier-free bioconjugate-based nanomedicines for therapeutic application, Lipid nanoparticles for overcoming biological barriers to mRNA delivery, Self-healing artificial tympanic membrane for otitis treatment, Investigating the mechanoregulatory role of fibronectin in tumor progression and wound healing, Biodegradable bioinspired adhesive film for wet organ surfaces. 

The 4D Convergence Technology Institute develops strategic policy planning for the sustainable development of the Biohealth industry and Society and strong fostering of industry clusters for academia-industry-hospital-government-global R&D and business development cooperation. 

< 1st Korea-USA International Symposium on Biotechnology at Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT), May 31th~ June 1st, 2024 >  

 I am really grateful for Collaboration Professors and Researchers, I always respect their gorgeous and noble sweat and tears,   their days were spent on new discoveries and development.  I wish them a bright future. God! be with us always!