DAEDALUS

Severe intestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disorders and colorectal cancers, often require aggressive surgical interventions that involve partial or total removal of the colon or rectum. These procedures can lead to profound and permanent consequences for patients, such as the need for lifelong stoma care. Despite this burden, there are currently limited medical solutions capable of repairing or regenerating the complex, multi-layered structure of the intestinal wall, particularly the mucosa and submucosa. Existing surgical materials are typically rigid and static, making them poorly suited to the dynamic, peristaltic environment of the gastrointestinal tract.

DAEDALUS addresses this challenge by developing advanced 4D composite biomaterials designed to restore the intestinal lining in a minimally invasive manner. Unlike conventional 3D scaffolds, these smart materials are engineered to evolve over time and respond to external stimuli, such as light or magnetic fields. The project is structured around three key technological pillars: bio-mimetic 4D scaffolds that replicate the architecture and flexibility of intestinal tissue; integrated therapeutic delivery systems releasing oxygen, glucose, and antibacterial agents to support healing; and a customized robotic endoscopic platform capable of depositing these biomaterials directly onto damaged tissue inside the body, enabling precise and patient-specific treatment.

By promoting regeneration of the intestinal mucosa and submucosa, DAEDALUS aims to reduce the need for radical surgical resections and improve long-term quality of life for patients. Beyond gastrointestinal applications, the project contributes to the emerging field of 4D Medicine by establishing new methodologies for responsive biomaterials and minimally invasive delivery systems. These advances have the potential to inform future treatments for a wide range of soft-tissue injuries, supporting more personalized, sustainable, and effective healthcare solutions.