Two doctoral scholars from the National Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology at the University of Madras have been honoured for research that could transform treatment for traumatic bleeding and dental erosion. The awards were presented at an international conference in Ropar, Punjab, recognising practical applications of calcium phosphate-based materials derived from biogenic hydroxyapatite.
Madras University nanotechnology breakthroughs set to aid dental and bone repair
Dr Shalini Thomas and Dr Elakkiya Krishnamoorthy tailored the composition and microstructure of naturally sourced hydroxyapatite to produce materials with distinct biomedical functions. Dr Shalini’s work produced a haemostatic sponge that accelerates blood clotting to under a minute in laboratory tests, offering a potential first response treatment for severe bleeding in accidents and surgical settings. Dr Elakkiya developed a bioactive glass capable of replacing eroded enamel within a small number of applications, and with additional properties that can reduce infection and support faster tissue regrowth.
S. Balakumar, head of the centre, described the innovations as indigenous solutions with significant implications for regenerative engineering in India. He said the materials could be formed into scaffolds or other medical constructs within half a day once porosity and structural parameters are finalised, which would shorten the time from design to clinical deployment.
Both projects received competitive funding during their doctoral studies. Dr Shalini’s sponge was supported by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Research Fund, while Dr Elakkiya’s bioactive glass benefited from backing by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation under the Department of Science and Technology. Following their PhDs, the pair have joined the Department of Biotechnology at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras under the ANRF National Post-Doctoral Fellowship to continue translation and scale-up activities.
Dr Shalini is now working on an A4-sized version of the haemostatic sponge as a prototype for real-time testing. Her current research at IIT Madras includes efforts to apply biomaterials to replace tissues in the spinal dura, indicating a wider clinical scope beyond surface wound care. Dr Elakkiya is exploring variations of her bioactive glass to address different clinical needs, from enamel restoration to infection control and enhanced tissue regeneration. She has expressed a desire to gain industry experience after her two-year fellowship and to work with start-up ventures to commercialise the technology.
The awards and subsequent fellowships underline a growing emphasis on applied nanotechnology research in India. By using biogenic sources and modifying mineral phases, the research team emphasises cost-effective and locally grounded approaches to advanced healthcare materials. The rapid clotting performance and enamel-replacement potential reported in laboratory settings will need further validation in clinical trials and regulatory approvals before routine use.
Both scientists bring diverse backgrounds to their work. Dr Elakkiya, who attended government school in Panruti and later studied at the Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, pursued postgraduate and doctoral studies at the University of Madras. Dr Shalini, educated in Chennai, said she was drawn to research after encountering allied sciences and finding the concepts compelling.
As they move into postdoctoral roles at IIT Madras, the teams will focus on optimising material properties, scaling production, and conducting preclinical studies. If successful, the products may offer rapid, locally produced options for haemostasis and enamel repair, supporting India’s broader objectives in medical innovation and self-reliance in healthcare technologies.
Key Takeaways:
- Two PhD scholars from the University of Madras won international awards for novel biomedical products derived from calcium phosphate and biogenic hydroxyapatite.
- Dr Shalini Thomas developed a haemostatic sponge that reduces clotting time to under a minute; Dr Elakkiya Krishnamoorthy created a bioactive glass to restore tooth enamel.
- Madras University nanotechnology breakthroughs could enable rapid production of scaffolds and materials for bone and dental repair.
- Both scholars have taken ANRF postdoctoral positions at IIT Madras to advance clinical testing and scale‑up.
