About Hidero Unuma Lab

1. Biomedical ceramic materials

We have developed a new type of non-resorbable membrane for Guided Bome Regeneration (GBR) consisting of
poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), gelatin, and calcium phosphate. This membrane can regenerate avleolar bone and gingiva three times faster than conventional remedy.

3. Ceramic Processing by using Enzymes

By using enzymes as "controlable precipitant supplier" in precipitating ceramics from aqueous solutions, unique ceramic materials can be prepared.
For example, if you immobilize urease in a alginate gel sphares and immerse the gel spheres in a solution containing Al³⁺ and urea, Al(OH)₃ precipitates around the surface of the gel spheres, resulting in hollow Al(OH)₃ spheres.
By using a similar method, we also prepared hydroxyapatite coatings on silk, PLLA, and Ti.
It is also possible to prepare hollow microspheres of Y₂O₃ for radiotherapy of cancer or Fe₃O₄ for the thermoseed for hyperthermia.

2. Ceramic Thin Film Deposition in Aqueous Solutions
We have succeeded in preparing ceramic thin films directly from aqueous solutions under mild temperatures. The films are SnO₂, CeO₂, MnO₂, Co₃O₄, Fe₃O₄ and some others.
Since this process does not require vacuum chambers or high-energy sources, it should be quite easy to make large-scaled thin films.
We are collaborating with some companies to put this technique into practice.

Also, bioactive glass fiber fabric that can promote bone formation was developed in my lab. This fabric might
find application in bone regeneration when it is used as dressing or bandage for bones.