A positionally stable anatomic smooth breast implant
The voluntary recall of textured breast implants due to their association with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma has resulted in the loss of the primary advantage of the textured surface: positional stability. We have engineered a novel soft gel-filled smooth implant with a surface that promotes positional stability without texture, known as the positionally stable smooth implant (PSSI). Miniature anatomically shaped breast implant shells were fabricated from polydimethylsiloxane using 3D-printed molds. The implant shell design incorporates cylindrical wells 1-4 mm in diameter. Implants were filled with commercial breast implant-derived silicone gel. Smooth and textured implants were also fabricated, serving as controls. Six implants per group were implanted subcutaneously into the bilateral rat dorsum. Rotation was measured every 2 weeks for a total of 12 weeks to assess stability. Animals were sacrificed at 4 and 12 weeks, and implant-capsule units were explanted for histological and Micro-computed tomography (MicroCT) analyzes. Four weeks after implantation, PSSI conditions showed tissue ingrowth and conformation to well dimensions, as assessed by histological staining and MicroCT imaging. Twelve weeks post implantation, textured implants and PSSI conditions with larger widths, depths, and well number demonstrated statistically significant increased stability compared to smooth implants (< 0.05). Tissue ingrowth into shell features occurred by 4 weeks and remained throughout longer time points. No significant differences were found in capsule thickness or collagen content between groups. These results suggest a promising alternative to textured surfaces for inducing implant positional stability.
Assessing cytotoxicity: a comparative analysis of biodegradable and conventional 3D-printing materials post-steam sterilization for surgical guides
Ecological concerns and the depletion of petroleum resources have driven the exploration of biodegradable 3D-printing materials derived from bio-renewable sources, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). This study aimed to compare the potential cytotoxic effects of a biodegradable PLA/PHA blend filament, a conventional photopolymer (MED610), and a combination of MED610 with a support material (SUP705) before and after steam sterilization in vitro, with a focus on their application in the production of surgical guides.PLA/PHA, MED610, and SUP705 (both in their pure and steam-sterilized forms;= 6 per group) were assessed for their cytotoxic effects on human fibroblasts using the neutral red uptake assay. Positive controls included zinc diethyldithiocarbamate and zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate, while high-density polyethylene served as a negative control. A stock solution of the extraction medium was used as the vehicle control (VC).Significant differences in cell viability were observed between pure PLA/PHA (1.2 ± 0.24) and MED610 (0.94 ± 0.08) (= 0.005). However, both materials exhibited non-cytotoxicity, with cell viability exceeding 70% compared to VCs. SUP705 (0.58 ± 0.42) demonstrated significantly reduced cell viability compared to PLA/PHA (= 0.001) and MED610 (= 0.007). After steam sterilization, no significant difference in cell viability was noted between MED610 (1.0 ± 0.08) and PLA/PHA (1.2 ± 0.25) (= 0.111). While both materials remained non-cytotoxic after sterilization, SUP705 (0.60 ± 0.45) exhibited cytotoxic effects compared to MED610 (= 0.006) and PLA/PHA (< 0.001). Steam sterilization did not induce significant cytotoxic effects in the investigated materials (= 0.123).Pure and steam-sterilized PLA/PHA and MED610 were not cytotoxic, supporting their potential use in the production of surgical guides. However, the observed cytotoxicity of SUP705 suggests caution in scenarios requiring sterile conditions, as the removal of support material from complex printed parts may be challenging. The consideration of PLA/PHA is recommended in such settings to ensure biocompatibility.
Lithium-containing 45S5 Bioglass-derived glass-ceramics have antioxidant activity and induce new bone formation in a rat preclinical model of type 1 diabetes mellitus
Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been associated with complications that affect the skeletal system, such as alterations in bone repair, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of fractures. In this context, the use of biomaterials able to promote osteogenic differentiation and, at the same time, limit the oxidative stress induced by DM offers a novel perspective to ensure the repair of diabetic bone tissue. Since lithium (Li) has been recently identified as a biologically active ion with osteogenic and antioxidant properties, the localized and controlled release of Li ions from bioactive glass-ceramic materials represents a promising therapeutic alternative for the treatment of bone lesions in DM. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential osteogenic and antioxidant effects of glass-ceramic microparticles derived from a 45S5-type bioactive glass (Bioglass) containing (% by weight) 45% SiO, 24.5% NaO, 24.5% CaO, and 6% PO, in which NaO was partially substituted by 5% of LiO (45S5.5Li), in an experimental model of type 1 DM (DM1). The results obtained demonstrate, for the first time, that both 45S5 and 45S5.5Li glass-ceramic microparticles possess antioxidant activity and stimulate bone formationboth under physiological conditions and under experimental DM1 in rats. In this sense, they would have potential application as inorganic osteogenic agents in different strategies of bone tissue regenerative medicine.
Development of triple-helical recombinant collagen-silver hybrid nanofibers for anti-methicillin-resistant(MRSA) applications
The escalating threat of healthcare-associated infections highlights the urgent need for biocompatible antibacterial materials that effectively combat drug-resistant pathogens. In this study, we present a novel fabrication method for triple-helical recombinant collagen (THRC)-silver hybrid nanofibers, specifically designed for anti-methicillin-resistant(MRSA) applications. Utilizing a silver-mediated crosslinking strategy, we harness a low-power 38 W lamp to enable silver ions (Ag) to mediate crosslinking across various proteins. Mechanistic insights reveal the pivotal role of nine amino acids in facilitating this reaction. The THRC maintains its native structure, forming well-ordered nanofibers, while other globular proteins form a distinctive network-like structure. THRC also serves as a reducing and dispersing agent, facilitating thesynthesis of highly dispersed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) (∼7 nm in diameter) within the nanofibers. Systematic investigation of the reaction conditions between THRC and Agdemonstrates the versatility of this novel approach for nanofiber fabrication. The incorporation of AgNPs imparts exceptional antibacterial activity to the THRC/AgNPs nanofibers, exhibiting a minimum inhibitory concentration of 19.2 mg land a minimum bactericidal concentration of 153.6 mg lagainst MRSA. This innovative approach holds significant potential for developing antibacterial protein-based biomaterials for infection management in wound healing and other biomedical applications.
Biomaterials for bone tissue engineering: achievements to date and future directions
Advancement in medicine and technology has resulted into prevention of countless deaths and increased life span. However, it is important to note that, the modern lifestyle has altered the food habits, witnessed increased life-style stresses and road accidents leading to several health complications and one of the primary victims is the bone health. More often than ever, healthcare professionals encounter cases of massive bone fracture, bone loss and generation of critical sized bone defects. Surgical interventions, through the use of bone grafting techniques are necessary in such cases. Natural bone grafts (allografts, autografts and xenografts) however, have major drawbacks in terms of delayed rehabilitation, lack of appropriate donors, infection and morbidity that shifted the focus of several investigators to the direction of synthetic bone grafts. By employing biomaterials that are based on bone tissue engineering, synthetic bone grafts provide a more biologically acceptable approach to establishing the phases of bone healing. The current review article provides the critical insights on several biomaterials that could yield to revolutionary improvements in orthopaedic medical fields. The introduction section of this article focuses on the statistical information on the requirements of various bone scaffolds globally and its impact on economy. In the later section, anatomy of the human bone, defects and diseases pertaining to human bone, and limitations of natural bone scaffolds and synthetic bone scaffolds were detailed. Biopolymers, bioceramics, and biometals-based biomaterials were discussed in further depth in the sections that followed. The article then concludes with a summary addressing the current trends and the future prospects of potential bone transplants.
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Enhancing orthopaedic implant efficacy: the development of Cerium-doped bioactive glass and polyvinylpyrrolidone composite coatings via MAPLE technique
This study investigates the potential of combining Cerium-doped bioactive glass (BBGi) with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to enhance the properties of titanium (Ti) implant surfaces using the Matrix-Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE) technique. The primary focus is on improving osseointegration, corrosion resistance, and evaluating the cytotoxicity of the developed thin films towards host cells. The innovative approach involves synthesizing a composite thin film comprising BBGi and PVP, leveraging the distinct benefits of both materials: BBGi's biocompatibility and osteoinductive capabilities, and PVP's film-forming and biocompatible properties. Results demonstrate that the BBGi+PVP coatings significantly enhance hydrophilicity, indicating improved cell-material interaction potential. The electrochemical analysis reveals superior corrosion resistance of the BBGi+PVP films compared to BBGi alone, which is critical for long-term implant stability. The mechanical adherence tests confirm the robust attachment of the coatings to Ti substrates, surpassing the ISO standards for implant materials. Biocompatibility tests show promising cell viability and negligible cytotoxic effects, with a controlled inflammatory response, underscoring the potential of BBGi+PVP coatings for orthopedic applications. The study concludes that the synergistic combination of BBGi and PVP, applied through the MAPLE technique, offers a promising route to fabricate bioactive and corrosion-resistant coatings for Ti implants, potentially enhancing osseointegration and longevity in clinical settings.
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Hybrid poly(lactide-co-glycolide) membranes incorporated with Doxycycline-loaded copper-based metal-organic nanosheets as antibacterial platforms
The rise of antimicrobial resistance necessitates innovative strategies to combat persistent infections. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted significant attention as antibiotic carriers due to their high drug loading capacity and structural adaptability. In particular, 2D MOF nanosheets are emerging as a notable alternative to their traditional 3D relatives due to their remarkable advantages in enhanced surface area, flexibility and exposed active region properties. Herein, we synthesized 2D copper 1,4-benzendicarboxylate (CuBDC) nanosheets and utilized them as a carrier and controlled release system for Doxycycline (Doxy@CuBDC), for the first time. The Doxy@CuBDC nanosheets were subsequently incorporated into Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) electrospun membranes (Doxy@CuBDC/PLGA). The resultant bioactive fibrous membranes exhibited double-barrier controlled release properties, extending the Doxy release up to ∼9 d at pH 7.4 and 5.5. Significant inhibitory effects againstandwere observed. The morphological analyses revealed the deformed bacterial cell structures on Doxy@CuBDC/PLGA membranes that indicates potent bactericidal activity. Furthermore, cytotoxicity assays demonstrated the non-toxic nature of the fabricated membranes, underscoring their potential use for biomedical applications. Overall, the hybrid antibacterial PLGA membranes present a promising strategy for combating microbial infections while maintaining biocompatibility and offer a versatile approach for biomedical material design and surface coatings (e.g. wound dressings, implants).
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound promotes cell viability of hUSCs in volumetric bioprinting scaffolds via PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 pathways
The study aimed to investigate the impact of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on human urinary-derived stem cells (hUSCs) viability within three-dimensional (3D) cell-laden gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) scaffolds. hUSCs were integrated into GelMA bio-inks at concentrations ranging from 2.5% to 10% w/v and then bioprinted using a volumetic-based method. Subsequent exposure of these scaffolds to LIPUS under varying parameters or sham irradiation aimed at optimizing the LIPUS treatment. Assessment of hUSCs viability employed Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), cell cycle analysis, and live&dead cell double staining assays. Additionally, Western blot analysis was conducted to determine protein expression levels. With 3D bio-printed cell-laden GelMA scaffolds successfully constructed, LIPUS promoted the proliferation of hUSCs. Optimal LIPUS conditions, as determined through CCK8 and live&dead cell double staining assays, was achieved at a frequency of 1.5 MHz, a spatial-average temporal-average intensity (ISATA) of 150 mW cm, with an exposure duration of 10 min per session administered consecutively for two sessions. LIPUS facilitated the transition from G0/G1 phase to S and G2/M phases and enhanced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and PI3K-Akt. Inhibition of ERK1/2 (U0126) and PI3K (LY294002) significantly attenuated LIPUS-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and PI3K-Akt respectively, both of which decreased the hUSC viability within 3D bio-printed GelMA scaffolds. Applying a LIPUS treatment at an ISATA of 150 mW cmpromotes the growth of hUSCs within 3D bio-printed GelMA scaffolds through modulating ERK1/2 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways.
Enhancing the porosity of biphasic calcium phosphate using polyethylene glycol as the porogen for bone regeneration applications
Biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) has been used as a material to support bone grafting, repair, recovery, and regeneration over the past decades. However, the inherent weakness of BCP is its low porosity, which limits the infiltration, differentiation, and proliferation of bone cells. To address this issue, porous BCP was synthesized using polyethylene glycol (PEG) 1000 with weight ratio ranging from 20 to 60% in BCP as the porogen through the powder-forming method. Analytical methods such as FTIR, XRD, SEM were used to demonstrate the purity, morphology and functional groups on the material surface of the obtained BCP samples. Structurally, the BCP sample with 60% PEG, named B60, possessed the highest porosity of 71% and its pore diameters ranging from 5 to 75 µm. Besides, the in vitro biocompatibility of B60 material have been demonstrated on the L929 cell line (90% cell viability) and simulated body fluid (apatite formation after 1 day). These results suggested that B60 should be further studied as a promising artificial material for bone regenerating applications.
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Doxorubicin-loaded core@shell cobalt ferrite-barium titanate magnetoelectric nanofibers for improved anticancer activity
Conventional drug delivery systems often suffer from non-specific distribution and limited therapeutic efficacy, leading to significant side effects. To address these challenges, we developed magnetoelectric, cobalt ferrite@barium titanate (CFO@BTO) nanofibers, with a core-shell structure for targeted anticancer drug delivery. The electrospinning method was employed to synthesize polymeric nanofibers based on magnetoelectric core-shell nanostructures. The Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analysis confirmed the successful loading of nanostructures on polymeric nanofiber, the core-shell morphology and magnetoelectric phase of cobalt ferrite@barium titanate CFO@BTO, respectively. To verify the drug attachment, the optimization of drug release in an applied external magnetic field, and the time required for control drug release, UV-Vis spectroscopy was used. The effectiveness of magnetic field-assisted controlled drug release was demonstrated by achieving a 95 ± 1.03% drug release from magnetoelectric nanofibers (MENFs) within 30 minutes under a magnetic field of 4mT. In vitro cytotoxicity assay on human skin cancer (SK-MEL-28) cell lines exhibited a maximum 90 ± 2% cytotoxicity with 2±0.03 cm of drug loaded MENFs. Furthermore, the Hemolysis assay was carried out to affirm the biocompatibility and non-toxicity of drug loaded MENFs, which is suitable for anticancer therapy.
Sodium alginate based fast swelling nanogels for solubility enhancement of chlorthalidone; synthesis, characterization and biosafety evaluation
Purpose of the study was to enhance the solubility of Chlorthalidone, poorly soluble diuretic that has been the used for lowering high blood pressure for the past half-century. Solubility is a challenge for approximately 90 % of drug candidates. Chlorthalidone is BCS Class IV drug whose poor solubility needs to be improved in order to optimize its efficacy. Using a free radical polymerization technique, sodium alginate-based nanogels were formulated for enhancing solubility of Chlorthalidone. The evaluation of various characteristics of nanogels was done by structural characterization, drug loading, swelling, sol-gel transition, in-vitro release, solubility, and toxicity tests. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) revealed characteristic peaks of the primary raw materials and polymeric nanogels. The FT-IR spectra of the Chlorthalidone-loaded nanogels suggested discrete drug peaks confirming successful drug loading. The system's amorphous nature and thermal stability were indicated by powder X-ray diffractometry and thermal analysis. The scanning electron microscopy indicated a well-defined porous structure. The size of the nanogels was determined by zeta size analysis to be 189 ±18.35 n.m. The solubility enhancement factor demonstrated the potential for improved solubility of the poorly soluble drug. The resulting biocompatible nanogels could be used to improve the solubility of hydrophobic drugs.
Osteogenesis promotion on MC3T3 by micro-area potential difference (MAPD) on titanium alloy
The ability of osseointegration of implants is an important factor in ensuring the long-term stability of bone implants in their recipient sites. In this paper, Ti-M titanium alloys with different surface micro-area potential difference (MAPD) were prepared and the adhesion, proliferation, spreading, and differentiation behavior of osteoblasts (MC3T3) on the surface of Ti-M alloy were investigated in detail to reveal the effect of MAPD on cell compatibility and osteogenic differentiation. The results showed that the alloy with high MAPD exhibited facilitated bone differentiation, demonstrating that MAPD significantly enhanced the alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization ability of osteoblasts, and upregulated the expression of osteogenic differentiation-related factors. It is suggested that it might be a strategy to promote the surface bioactivity of titanium alloy by adjusting the surface MAPD.
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Personalizing β-TCP porous scaffolds to promote osteogenesis: a study of segmental femoral defects in beagle models
Increasing clinical occurrence of segmental bone defects demands constant improvements in bone transplantation to overcome issues of limited resources, immune rejection and poor structural complement. This study aimed to develop a personalized bone defect repair modality using 3D-printed β-TCP grafts and to assess its osteogenic impacts in a femoral segmental defect model in beagles, as a basis for clinical studies and application.
Methods:
A β-TCP scaffold was designed and manufactured using CAD with a 3 cm segmental bone defect model was established in 27 one-year-old male beagles, randomly divided into three groups. A control group utilizing only intramedullary fixation, the positive control group with an added autologous bone graft and experimental group using a β-TCP scaffold. The study animals were monitored for 24 weeks postoperative and assessed for vital signs, imaging, and histological indicators at every month.
Results:
All the Beagles underwent successful modelling and experimentation, and were fully ambulatory at four weeks. Postoperative X-rays showed no evidence of loosening or displacement of the intramedullary nails. Micro-CT and histological staining indicated Osteogenesis starting from the fourth week, with the most significant growth seen using autografts (P < 0.05). New bone formation is seen adhering to the surface and proximal femur after osteotomy. The β-TCP group had significantly more evidence of Osteogenesis when compared to the control group (P < 0.05), characterized by new bone visible throughout the porous structure and distal residual femur. The control group showed bone formation impeded by fibrosis, showing poor bone growth mainly around the distal end after osteotomy, with poor overall repair outcomes.
Conclusion:
Growth factor-deficient β-TCP porous scaffolds demonstrated promising Osteoinductive properties in repairing large segment bone defects in Beagles' femurs. It effectively promoted bone growth and is structurally advantageous for weight bearing long bones.
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Prevention of early thrombosis in transplanted vein model by encapsulation with tirofiban microneedle drug delivery system
Early thrombosis following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery leads to perioperative myocardial infarction, which causes difficulties for clinicians and patients. Moreover, once perioperative myocardial infarction occurs, the mortality rate is extremely high. In recent years, microneedle (MN) drug delivery systems have become a research hotspot with broad clinical application prospects. These systems are capable of achieving sustained, safe, and painless local drug release. In cardiovascular applications, MNs maximize local anticoagulant effects, inhibit endometrial hyperplasia, and reduce systemic side effects. We speculate that a MN drug delivery system can be used to target transplanted veins to inhibit their thrombosis and reduce the incidence of perioperative myocardial infarction after CABG surgery. Therefore, this study developed a hyaluronic acid MN patch loaded with tirofiban and conducted preliminary physicochemical tests. The safety, efficacy, biocompatibility, and targeting of the MN system were evaluated usingandexperiments using a jugular vein transplantation model. The results indicate that the MN system has excellent physical properties, safety, effectiveness, biocompatibility, and strong targeting, which can effectively inhibit early local thrombus formation. In addition, the observation of early postoperative endometrial hyperplasia activation provides a foundation for future research.
An aligned pattern sponge based on gelatin for rapid hemostasis
In this study, we developed a cytocompatible and hemocompatible three-dimensional sponges with pattern/aligned structure using gelatin for rapid hemostasis. The sponges were characterized by light microscope photography and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Pattern sponges with gelatin (P-Gelatin) exhibited aligned structures on their surfaces and the inner structure. In terms of biocompatibility, MTT assay, and hemolysis experiment showed that P-Gelatin had good cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility. In vitro blood coagulation and in vivo hemostasis, P-Gelatin sponges, with their aligned structure, exhibit rapid adsorption of red blood cells (RBCs) and platelets compared to non-patterned gelatin counterparts. This work introduces a safe and convenient patterned sponge for rapid hemostasis, especially highlighting a concept where a patterned structure can enhance the effectiveness of blood clotting, which is particularly relevant for tissue engineering.
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Mesalamine loaded ethyl cellulose nanoparticles: optimization andevaluation of antioxidant potential in ulcerative colitis
This study aimed to optimize mesalamine (MES)-nanoparticles (NPs) using Box Behnken Design and investigate itsantioxidant potential in colon drug targeting. The formulation was prepared using oil/water (O/W) emulsion solvent evaporation technique for time dependent colonic delivery. The optimal formulation with the following parameters composition was selected: polymer concentration (% w/w) (A) = 0.63, surfactant concentration (% w/w) (B) = 0.71, sonication duration (min) (C) = 6. The outcomes showed that ethyl cellulose (EC) NP containing MES has particles size of 142 ± 2.8 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of -24.8 ± 2.3 mV, % EE of 87.9 ± 1.6%, and PDI of 0.226 ± 0.15. Scanning electron microscopy revealed NPs has a uniform and spherical shape. Therelease data disclosed that the EC NPs containing MES showed bursts release of 52% ± 1.6% in simulated stomach media within 2 h, followed by a steady release of 93% ± 2.9% in simulated intestinal fluid that lasted for 48 h. The MES release from NP best match with the Korsmeyer-Peppas model (= 0.962) and it followed Fickian diffusion case I release mechanism. The formulation stability over six-months at 25 °C ± 2 °C with 65% ± 5% relative humidity, and 40 °C ± 2 °C with 75% ± 5% relative humidity showed no significant changes in colour, EE, particle sizes and ZP. As perresults, MES-NP effectively increased glutathione, SOD level and reduces the LPO level as compared to other treatment groups. The findings hold promise that the developed formulation can suitably give in ulcerative colitis.
Macroporous coating of silver-doped hydroxyapatite/silica nanocomposite on dental implants by EDTA intermediate to improve osteogenesis, antibacterial, and corrosion behavior
Coating a titanium (Ti) implant with hydroxyapatite (HA) increases its bioactivity and biocompatibility. However, implant-related infections and biological corrosion have restricted the success of implant. To address these issues, a modified hydroxyapatite nanocomposite (HA/silica-EDTA-AgNPs nanocomposite) was proposed to take advantage of the sustained release of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silicate ions through the silica-EDTA chelating network. As a result, a uniform layer of nanocomposite, compared to HA as the gold standard, was formed on Ti implants without fracture and with a high level of adhesion, using Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO). Bioactivity assessment evidenced a shift in the surface phase of the Ti implant to generation of beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), a more bioresorbable material than HA. Metabolic activity assessments using human dental pulp stem cells revealed that Ti surfaces modified by the new nanocomposite are superior to bare and HA-modified Ti surfaces for cell attachment and proliferation in vitro. In addition, it successfully inhibited bacterial growth and induced osteogenesis on the implant surface. Finally, potentiodynamic polarization behavior of Ti implants before and after coating confirmed that a thick oxide interface layer on the modified Ti surface acts as an electrical barrier and protects the substrate layer from corrosion. Therefore, the HA/silica-EDTA/Ag nanocomposite presented here, compared to HA, can better coat Ti dental implants due to its good biocompatibility and osteoinductive activity, along with improved biological stability.
Fabrication of a natural nanocomposite from Syzygium cumini and squid bone waste decorated with Cu-Nps for simultaneous use in the triple method of photodynamic/photothermal/chemotherapy
This work reports a new nano platform made from natural materials for phototherapy (PT) applications. For this purpose, calcium carbonate nanoparticles (NPs) derived from Persian Gulf squid bones as a drug carrier, Syzygium cumini (dye extracted from the fruit of the Persian Gulf trees) as a photosensitizer, and Doxorubicin as a chemotherapy (CHT) drug have been used. In addition, copper NPs were added to the above nanocomposition to increase the efficiency of photothermal (PTT) treatment. For PT, samples were irradiated by an 808 nm laser (1 W cm). The results show that nanocomposites play an influential role in the reactive oxygen species process, and an increase of 21 degrees in temperature during 15 min of laser radiation is effective in photodynamic (PDT)/PTT therapy. The drug loading capacity of the nanocomposite was calculated as 49%. This new nanocomposite for simultaneous PDT/PTT/CHT holds great promise for future cancer treatment due to its excellent potential in treatment and reduced systemic toxicity.
Rapid curing dynamics of PEG-thiol-ene resins allow facile 3D bioprinting and in-air cell-laden microgel fabrication
Thiol-norbornene photoclick hydrogels are highly efficient in tissue engineering applications due to their fast gelation, cytocompatibility, and tunability. In this work, we utilized the advantageous features of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-thiol-ene resins to enable fabrication of complex and heterogeneous tissue scaffolds using 3D bioprinting and in-air drop encapsulation techniques. We demonstrated that photoclickable PEG-thiol-ene resins could be tuned by varying the ratio of PEG-dithiol to PEG norbornene to generate a wide range of mechanical stiffness (0.5-12 kPa) and swelling ratios. Importantly, all formulations maintained a constant, rapid gelation time (<0.5 s). We used this resin in biological projection microstereolithography (BioPSL) to print complex structures with geometric fidelity and demonstrated biocompatibility by printing cell-laden microgrids. Moreover, the rapid gelling kinetics of this resin permitted high-throughput fabrication of tunable, cell-laden microgels in air using a biological in-air drop encapsulation apparatus (BioIDEA). We demonstrated that these microgels could support cell viability and be assembled into a gradient structure. This PEG-thiol-ene resin, along with BioPSL and BioIDEA technology, will allow rapid fabrication of complex and heterogeneous tissues that mimic native tissues with cellular and mechanical gradients. The engineered tissue scaffolds with a controlled microscale porosity could be utilized in applications including gradient tissue engineering, biosensing, andtissue models.
A novel polyurethane-based silver foam dressing with superior antimicrobial action for management of infected chronic wounds
Wound healing is a complex and dynamic process supported by several cellular events. Around 13 million individuals globally suffer from chronic wounds yearly, for which dressings with excellent antimicrobial activity and cell viability (>70%, as per ISO 10993) are needed. Excessive use of silver can cause cytotoxicity and has been linked to increasing antimicrobial resistance. In this study, HDI Ag foam was synthesized using a safer hexamethylene diisocyanate-based prepolymer (HDI prepolymer) instead of commonly used diisocyanates like TDI and MDI and substantially lower Ag content than that incorporated in other Ag foams. In vitro characteristics of the HDI Ag foam were evaluated in comparison with leading clinically used foam-based dressings. All dressings underwent a detailed characterization in accordance with industrially accepted BS EN 13726 standards. The HDI Ag foam exhibited highest antimicrobial efficiency againstand(static condition), with the lowest amount of Ag (0.2 wt%) on the wound contact surface. The extracts from HDI Ag foam showed superior cell viability (>70%), when tested on the L929 mouse fibroblast cell line. Measurements of moisture vapor transmission, fluid handling, physico-chemical and mechanical properties ensured that the HDI foam was clinically acceptable for chronic wound patients.
Electrophoretic deposition of chitosan/gelatin/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite coatings on 316L stainless steel for biomedical applications
In addition to the basic and main parts of hospital equipment, 316L stainless steel is widely utilized in futures such as nails and screws, wires and medical bone clips, dental implants, heart springs (stents), needles, surgical scissors, etc. In the present study, the electrophoretic deposition of a composite based on chitosan, gelatin, nano and microparticles of hydroxyapatite on a 316L stainless steel substrate was investigated. Hydroxyapatite particles are added to it due to the ossification abilities of steel and due to an enhanced adhesion and bone production, chitosan and biocompatible gelatin polymer particles were also added to hydroxyapatite. These particles were mixed in an ethanol/deionized water/acetic acid solution to create a suspension for the electrophoretic procedure. A mixture of 5 g/L of hydroxyapatite, 0.5 g/L of chitosan, and 1 g/L were present in the suspension. The best coating time was 1200s, and the best voltage was 30V. The high density of the hydroxyapatite particles in the chitosan/gelatin polymer matrix was seen in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures. Additionally, the outcomes of the immersing samples in the simulated body fluid (SBF) were evaluated, and the results revealed that, after 14 days, hydroxyapatite nanoparticles grew more rapidly than microparticles. The presence of chitosan, gelatin, and hydroxyapatite in the coating was verified by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Potentiodynamic polarization in Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) were used to assess the corrosion results. In comparison to the bare sample, the corrosion resistance of the coated sample increased from 1.22×105 to 1.22×105 Ω.cm2 under best circumstances, according to EIS results. Additionally, in the polarization test, the corrosion potential increased from -225.24 to -157.01 mV (vs. SCE) and the corrosion current dropped from 2.159 to 1.201 µA/cm2.
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