UNAIR NEWS – A faculty member at the Faculty of Dental Medicine (FKG), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), Prof. Dr. Elly Munadziroh, DDS, MS, has developed a patented innovation in biomaterials. The innovation involves a method for producing a biocomposite made from bovine amniotic membrane combined with hydroxyapatite, which shows strong potential to accelerate and enhance wound healing and bone regeneration.
In an interview with UNAIR UNEWS, Prof. Munadziroh said her main motivation was the desire to produce domestically developed medical products. “So far, most materials used in dental practice are still largely imported from abroad,” she said.
Turning discarded membranes into medical materials
The research is part of a long-term project that originated from her doctoral dissertation. At that time, Prof. Munadziroh focused on the amniotic membrane, a fetal membrane that is typically discarded after childbirth. In fact, the amniotic membrane contains nutrients, collagen, and other components that play an important role in wound healing and bone regeneration.
“This innovation makes use of natural materials derived from the human body. As a result, it is expected to demonstrate good biocompatibility and reduce the risk of rejection,” Prof. Munadziroh explained. The utilization of materials that were previously unused and discarded is also expected to add value by improving wound and bone healing outcomes.
Advancing innovation
During the research process, Prof. Munadziroh faced a number of challenges, particularly related to laboratory readiness and facility availability. Biomaterials research requires specialized equipment that is often spread across multiple laboratories. To overcome this, she emphasized the importance of building strong networks with various laboratories and research institutions.
To further develop the innovation, Prof. Munadziroh plans to expand the research into clinical trial phases. Once clinical testing is completed and regulatory standards are met, the product can be commercialized through partnerships with industry.
In closing, Prof. Munadziroh encouraged young researchers to remain motivated and persistent in conducting research. “Research remains a wide-open field with vast opportunities to be explored for the benefit of society,” she said.
Author: Adinda Octavia Setiowati
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
