Admission Information

TUM Online

Objectives

After completion of this course, students understand the biomaterials used in neuroengineering, and can analyze their functionalities and behaviors in biological environments. Students are able to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of materials that determine various biological responses. Students can analyze the manufacturing methods that lead to biomaterial properties, and can analyze methods used to measure them.

Description

This course will cover classes of biomaterials used in neuroengineering applications, and methods for their manufacturing and surface modification. Material properties such as stiffness, surface charge, wettability, and electrical conductivity will be discussed, with a focus on methods to control or modify these properties, and measurement methods. The course will introduce biological responses to implanted devices, including protein adsorption, complement activation, blood clotting, and inflammation. The course will discuss how material properties modulate these biological responses. We will also discuss more advanced topics such as manufacturing and analysis of nanoscale devices and features, remote powering of materials, and material properties for specific applications in the nervous system.

Prerequisites

No mandatory prerequisites. Optional: ME60003 Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology EI7473 BioMEMS and Microfluidics, or similar modules.

Teaching and Learning Method

Fundamental principles of materials science and biomaterials are introduced during the lectures. These concepts are applied via exercises in which students apply the lecture material to case studies of medical implants.

Recommended Literature

B.D. Ratner, W.R. Wagner, et al. Biomaterials Science: An Introduction to Materials in Medicine. (2020) 4th Ed., Academic Press. ISBN: 978-0128161371.

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