Biotechnologies in the nanoworld: from discovery and delivery to environmental challenges
Titanium in a Nanoworld: Environmental and Biological Challenges, by Mário Araújo (CIIMAR)
Nanomaterials are now fully established in our society, adding value to products across several industries, including the biomedical sector, personal care products, and cosmetics, among others. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) stand out as inexpensive, highly versatile, and corrosion-resistant nanomaterials. However, contradictory concerns regarding their safety remain under discussion. While they are still used as food additives in some countries, they have been banned in others, and environmental impacts have also been widely reported. In this talk, we will reflect on the knowns and unknowns, examine arguments from different perspectives, and discuss future directions for the responsible use of these nanomaterials.
(Nano)Technologies from the sea: a continuous discovery, by Ana Grenha (CCMAR)
New therapies are increasingly relying on advanced technologies involving drug encapsulation, while the sea is continuously explored to identify novel drugs and materials that may offer advantages to therapeutics. In this context, algae, crustaceans, sponges, and tunicates are potential sources of bioactive compounds and biomaterials with important pharmaceutical applications. Materials like chitosan, alginate, and fucoidan are widely studied for the production of drug carriers. In parallel, the sea has already provided anticancer drugs and other therapeutic molecules, demonstrating the biomedical potential of ocean resources. This talk will explore therapeutic concepts intertwined with marine biomaterials and drug delivery systems, showing future perspectives for combining marine biotechnology with advanced pharmaceutical technology.
Mário Jorge Araújo holds a PhD in Biology and Ecology of Global Changes. His research explores the impacts of human activities on aquatic ecosystems, with a focus on molecular and physiological responses in vertebrates and invertebrates. His most recent ecotoxicology work integrates molecular biology tools to understand nanotoxicity, with a focus on trophic transfer pathways and organism-level effects. Additionally, he is interested in emerging tools for advancing aquatic research.
The Grenha’s lab dedicates to respiratory drug delivery, with a particular focus on inhalation. It is also keen on exploring the potential of natural materials, namely polysaccharides, many of them of marine origin, fostering new applications that benefit from their intrinsic properties. Additionally, there is strong expertise on encapsulation technologies, which have been applied in distinct areas ranging from the pharmaceutical area, to aquaculture and food science.
The seminar will be delivered online.
If you would like to receive a certificate, please email ccmarseminars@ualg.pt by 9 July.
In case of any questions, please contact CIMAR-LA’s Seminar team.
