Researcher from the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry attends an international conference in Italy

From September 7–11, the 34th Annual Conference of the European Society for Biomaterials (ESB 2025) is taking place in Turin, Italy, under the motto “Biomaterials on the Horizon.” The event brings together more than a thousand scientists from all over the world to discuss the latest trends in biomaterials research – from regenerative medicine and clinical translation to the use of artificial intelligence in biomaterials development.

The Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry is represented at the conference by Dr. chem. Laura Andže, leading researcher at the Cellulose Laboratory, who is presenting a poster entitled “Alkil-pretreated densification of birch wood for potential use in osteosynthesis bone implants.” The study, co-authored by Ph.D. Mārtiņš Andžs, Dr. Vadims Ņefjodovs, Dr. chem. Juris Zoldners, Dr. biol. Ulla Milbreta, Mg. chem. Mārīte Škute, Ph.D. Karīna Egle, and Ph.D. Arita Dubņika, explores the potential of chemically pretreated and densified birch wood for the development of osteosynthesis implants.

“Just recently I felt at home at the EPNOE conference, where I reconnected with colleagues I have worked with for more than 15 years. This week, however, I am taking a step into a completely new direction – biomaterials. For now, it feels like just opening the door to a new world, but I am eager to learn, connect with colleagues, and gradually grow into a full-fledged member of this community,” shares Laura Andže.

The conference opened on September 7 at the Lingotto Center in Turin, featuring keynote lectures on surface modifications of biomaterials and the role of society in their development. Over four days, participants will attend sessions on regenerative medicine, antibacterial approaches, gene and cell therapy, as well as the sustainable use of biomaterials in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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