Nano-Argovia Project Wound healing without stitches or clips In the Nano-Argovia project Na-LTS, an interdisciplinary team is developing a tissue plaster that can be used in the mouth to support rapid wound healing with the help of lasers. Support of the healing process Soft tissue in the mouth plays a signifi- cant role in the preservation of teeth and implants. Receding gums are therefore a problem, and serious cases can require the transplantation of mucous mem- brane and connective tissue. In this pro- cedure, oral surgeons take the required tissue from the palate area. Now, a team of researchers led by proj- ect manager Dr. Franziska Koch (Thommen Medical AG) is planning to develop a palate plaster that supports the healing process and minimizes complications in the event of such interventions. The researchers plan to use this plaster in conjunction with a widespread medical technique known as laser tissue soldering. Contained within the plaster are various nanoparticles, which heat up when exposed to a laser of a certain wavelength — while surrounding tissue remains unaffected. Targeted warm- ing leads to the thermal denaturing of pro- teins, which act as biological “glue,” at the desired location. This leads to rapid closing of the wound — with no need for stitches or clips. Prototype development The project team, which comprises Thommen Medical and researchers from the FHNW Schools of Life Sciences and Engineering and Environment, benefits from the industry partner’s long-standing experience. This allows the team to take account of specific regulatory require- ments for medical projects in terms of Researchers experiment with applying the innovative tissue plaster to a pig’s jaw. (Image: F. Koch, Thommen Medical) the choice of materials and nanoparticles right from the outset of this two-year project. The aim is to develop a prototype of the tissue that can serve as a basis for the subsequent product authorization and market launch. Collaboration between: Thommen Medical AG (Grenchen) FHNW School of Life Sciences FHNW School of Engineering and Environment Further information: Nano-Argovia program Thommen Medical AG FHNW School of Life Sciences FHNW School of Engineering and Environment “It’s almost impossible for a medium-sized company to bring the necessary skills for a complex project such as Na-LTS under one roof. Our participa- tion in the Nano-Argovia pro- gram is therefore invaluable to us. It brings together experts in different subject areas, creates synergies and allows us to work together on refining the idea — as well as learning from each other in the process.” Dr. Franziska Koch, Thommen Medical AG 12 SNI INSight June 2025