Dr. Eng. Dorota Kołbuk-Konieczny has been awarded the title of habilitated doctor in the field of materials engineering. Her scientific achievement is a series of seven publications collectively titled: “Biomimetic and biodegradable cellular scaffolds – from structure to functionality.” Her research focuses on the design and characterization of biomimetic cellular scaffolds, which hold fundamental and applied significance for the advancement of tissue engineering and materials science.
The dissertation aimed to develop and analyze biomimetic cellular scaffolds that replicate the morphology and functionality of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The studies focused on identifying the relationships between scaffold formation process parameters, surface functionalization methods, and their structural and biological properties. The key research aspects included:
Scaffold design: Development of biodegradable, morphologically biomimetic cellular scaffolds that exclude the use of animal-derived materials.
Surface functionalization: Investigation of the mechanisms determining the effectiveness of functionalizing polyester-based scaffolds and the impact of these processes on supramolecular structure and surface properties.
Structure’s role in regeneration: Demonstration of the critical importance of supramolecular structure in cell adhesion processes, integrin synthesis, and ECM protein production.
Development of hybrid scaffolds: Creation of innovative technologies for fabricating three-dimensional hybrid scaffolds combining electrospun fibers with surface functionalization using hydroxyapatite nanoparticles.
Dr. Eng. Dorota Kołbuk-Konieczny’s work was inspired by challenges posed by an aging global population and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases, which drive the demand for modern biomaterials and medical products to support tissue regeneration. A particular focus was placed on creating biomimetic structures that emulate ECM characteristics while addressing limitations associated with animal-derived materials.
Her research represents a significant contribution to an interdisciplinary approach that combines materials engineering, biology, chemistry, and medicine. The outcomes of her work not only deepen theoretical understanding but also hold promising applications in the development of innovative biomedical products and medical devices.
