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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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Article

13 pages, 5428 KiB  
Article
Lymphatic Regeneration after Popliteal Lymph Node Excision and Implantation of Aligned Nanofibrillar Collagen Scaffolds: An Experimental Rabbit Model
by José Luis Campos, Gemma Pons, Ali M. Al-Sakkaf, Irene Laura Lusetti, Laura Pires, Francisco Javier Vela, Elena Ramos, Verónica Crisóstomo, Francisco Miguel Sánchez-Margallo, Elena Abellán and Jaume Masiá
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080235 - 21 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1561
Abstract
Lymphedema presents significant challenges to patients’ quality of life, prompting the exploration of innovative treatments, such as collagen scaffolds, aimed at treating and reducing the risk of lymphedema. We aimed to evaluate the preventive and therapeutic efficacy and the lymphangiogenic potential of implanted [...] Read more.
Lymphedema presents significant challenges to patients’ quality of life, prompting the exploration of innovative treatments, such as collagen scaffolds, aimed at treating and reducing the risk of lymphedema. We aimed to evaluate the preventive and therapeutic efficacy and the lymphangiogenic potential of implanted aligned nanofibrillar collagen scaffolds (BioBridgeTM) following the induction of secondary lymphedema in a rabbit model. Thirty rabbits were divided into treatment (G1), prevention (G2), and control (G3) groups. Secondary lymphedema was induced in all groups. BioBridgeTM implantation was performed in G2 and G1 on days 0 and 60, respectively. Follow-ups included hindlimb circumference measurements and indocyanine green lymphography at 0, 60, and 90 days. None of the study rabbits exhibited dermal backflow on day 0 before surgery. At 60 days, the incidence rates of dermal backflow in G1, G2, and G3 were 100%, 44.4%, and 90%, respectively. Furthermore, at 90 days, the incidence rates were 22.2%, 44.4%, and 90%, respectively. New linear lymphatic observation was seen in rabbits with resolved dermal backflow. The findings of this study demonstrated the capacity of BioBridgeTM scaffolds to induce new lymphatic vessel formation and reduce dermal backflow in secondary lymphedema in a rabbit model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Functional Materials for Regenerative Medicine)
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13 pages, 8233 KiB  
Article
Surgery Combined with Local Implantation of Doxorubicin-Functionalized Hydroxyapatite Halts Tumor Growth and Prevents Bone Destruction in an Aggressive Osteosarcoma
by Yang Liu, Tova Corbascio, Jintian Huang, Jacob Engellau, Lars Lidgren, Magnus Tägil and Deepak Bushan Raina
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080232 - 19 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1321
Abstract
Osteosarcoma treatment comprises pre-surgical chemotherapy followed by radical surgery and further chemotherapy cycles, but the prognosis has been far from satisfactory. No new drugs or treatment modalities have been developed for clinical use in the last four decades. We describe a nano-hydroxyapatite (HA)-based [...] Read more.
Osteosarcoma treatment comprises pre-surgical chemotherapy followed by radical surgery and further chemotherapy cycles, but the prognosis has been far from satisfactory. No new drugs or treatment modalities have been developed for clinical use in the last four decades. We describe a nano-hydroxyapatite (HA)-based local drug delivery platform for the delivery of doxorubicin (DOX), a cornerstone drug in osteosarcoma treatment. The efficacy of the developed drug delivery system was evaluated in an orthotopic human osteosarcoma xenograft in the proximal tibia of mice. After tumor development, the tumor was surgically resected and the void filled with the following: (1) No treatment (G1); (2) nHA only (G2); (3) DOX-loaded nHA (G3). In-vivo tumor response was assessed by evaluating the tumor-induced osteolysis at 2 weeks using micro-CT followed by in-vivo PET-CT at 3 weeks and ex-vivo micro-CT and histology. Micro-CT imaging revealed complete destruction of the tibial metaphysis in groups G1 and G2, while the metaphysis was protected from osteolysis in G3. PET-CT imaging using 18F-FDG revealed high metabolic activity in the tumors in G1 and G2, which was significantly reduced in G3. Using histology, we were able to verify that local DOX delivery reduced the bone destruction and the tumor burden compared with G1 and G2. No off-target toxicity in the vital organs could be observed in any of the treatment groups histologically. This study describes a novel local drug adjuvant delivery approach that could potentially improve the prognosis for patients responding poorly to the current osteosarcoma treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Cancer Therapies)
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10 pages, 1565 KiB  
Article
An Evaluation of the Cytocompatibility of Endodontic Bioceramics in Human Periodontal-Ligament-Derived Cells
by Asuka Aka, Takashi Matsuura and Atsutoshi Yoshimura
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080231 - 19 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1229
Abstract
The present study evaluated the cytocompatibility of three endodontic bioceramics in human periodontal-ligament-derived cells (hPDLCs): MTA Repair HP (HP), MTA Flow White (F), and Nishika Canal Sealer BG multi (BG). In addition, we also evaluated the effect of the powder–liquid (paste) ratio of [...] Read more.
The present study evaluated the cytocompatibility of three endodontic bioceramics in human periodontal-ligament-derived cells (hPDLCs): MTA Repair HP (HP), MTA Flow White (F), and Nishika Canal Sealer BG multi (BG). In addition, we also evaluated the effect of the powder–liquid (paste) ratio of F and BG on cytocompatibility. Discs of endodontic bioceramics (diameter = 8 mm, thickness = 1 mm) were prepared with HP, F, and BG. hPDLCs obtained from extracted teeth and cultured for three to five passages were used in the experiment. The prepared discs were placed at the bottom of a 48-well plate, seeded with hPDLCs at 100,000 cells/well, cultured for 7 or 28 days, and subjected to a 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. hPDLCs cultured without any discs were used as a negative control (NC) group. Discs made of F or BG mixed in three different consistencies were also used in this experiment. The absorbance values at days 7 and 28 were high in the order of HP > NC > BG > F. Furthermore, F or BG with higher consistency showed higher absorbance values. MTA Repair HP had the highest cytocompatibility among the three materials. Furthermore, it also showed that higher consistency improved cytocompatibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Clinical Endodontic Applications (2nd Edition))
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15 pages, 9246 KiB  
Article
Fibronectin Functionalization: A Way to Enhance Dynamic Cell Culture on Alginate/Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds
by Bianca Zumbo, Benedetta Guagnini, Barbara Medagli, Davide Porrelli and Gianluca Turco
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080222 - 10 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2216
Abstract
Bone defects are a global health concern; bone tissue engineering (BTE) is the most promising alternative to reduce patient morbidity and overcome the inherent drawbacks of autograft and allograft bone. Three-dimensional scaffolds are pivotal in this field due to their potential to provide [...] Read more.
Bone defects are a global health concern; bone tissue engineering (BTE) is the most promising alternative to reduce patient morbidity and overcome the inherent drawbacks of autograft and allograft bone. Three-dimensional scaffolds are pivotal in this field due to their potential to provide structural support and mimic the natural bone microenvironment. Following an already published protocol, a 3D porous structure consisting of alginate and hydroxyapatite was prepared after a gelation step and a freezing-drying step. Despite the frequent use of alginate in tissue regeneration, the biological inertness of this polysaccharide hampers proper cell colonization and proliferation. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to enhance the biological properties by promoting the interaction and adhesion between cells and biomaterial with the use of Fibronectin. This extracellular matrix protein was physically adsorbed on the scaffold, and its presence was evaluated with environmental scanning electron microscopy (eSEM) and the Micro-Bicinchoninic Acid (μBCA) protein assay. The MG-63 cell line was used for both static and dynamic (i.e., in bioreactor) 3D cell culturing on the scaffolds. The use of the bioreactor allowed for a better exchange of nutrients and oxygen and a better removal of cell catabolites from the inner portion of the construct, mimicking the physiological environment. The functionalized scaffolds showed an improvement in cell proliferation and colonization compared to non-functionalized ones; the effect of the addition of Fibronectin was more evident in the dynamic culturing conditions, where the cells clearly adhered on the surface of functionalized scaffolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Scaffolds for Bone and Joint Surgery)
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20 pages, 8416 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Biocompatibility Assessment of Bioengineered PLA-Hydrogel Core–Shell Scaffolds with Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Bone Regeneration
by Federica Re, Luciana Sartore, Chiara Pasini, Matteo Ferroni, Elisa Borsani, Stefano Pandini, Andrea Bianchetti, Camillo Almici, Lorena Giugno, Roberto Bresciani, Silvia Mutti, Federica Trenta, Simona Bernardi, Mirko Farina and Domenico Russo
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080217 - 31 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3769
Abstract
Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), whether used alone or together with three-dimensional scaffolds, are the best-studied postnatal stem cells in regenerative medicine. In this study, innovative composite scaffolds consisting of a core–shell architecture were seeded with bone-marrow-derived hMSCs (BM-hMSCs) and tested for their [...] Read more.
Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs), whether used alone or together with three-dimensional scaffolds, are the best-studied postnatal stem cells in regenerative medicine. In this study, innovative composite scaffolds consisting of a core–shell architecture were seeded with bone-marrow-derived hMSCs (BM-hMSCs) and tested for their biocompatibility and remarkable capacity to promote and support bone regeneration and mineralization. The scaffolds were prepared by grafting three different amounts of gelatin–chitosan (CH) hydrogel into a 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) core (PLA-CH), and the mechanical and degradation properties were analyzed. The BM-hMSCs were cultured in the scaffolds with the presence of growth medium (GM) or osteogenic medium (OM) with differentiation stimuli in combination with fetal bovine serum (FBS) or human platelet lysate (hPL). The primary objective was to determine the viability, proliferation, morphology, and spreading capacity of BM-hMSCs within the scaffolds, thereby confirming their biocompatibility. Secondly, the BM-hMSCs were shown to differentiate into osteoblasts and to facilitate scaffold mineralization. This was evinced by a positive Von Kossa result, the modulation of differentiation markers (osteocalcin and osteopontin), an expression of a marker of extracellular matrix remodeling (bone morphogenetic protein-2), and collagen I. The results of the energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS) clearly demonstrate the presence of calcium and phosphorus in the samples that were incubated in OM, in the presence of FBS and hPL, but not in GM. The chemical distribution maps of calcium and phosphorus indicate that these elements are co-localized in the same areas of the sections, demonstrating the formation of hydroxyapatite. In conclusion, our findings show that the combination of BM-hMSCs and PLA-CH, regardless of the amount of hydrogel content, in the presence of differentiation stimuli, can provide a construct with enhanced osteogenicity for clinically relevant bone regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Bone Biomaterials)
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17 pages, 1950 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the Antimicrobial Properties of Experimental Resin-Based Dental Composites through the Addition of Quaternary Ammonium Salts
by Joanna Nowak, Maja Zalega, Witold Jakubowski, Monika Domarecka, Jerzy Sokołowski and Kinga Bociong
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080213 - 30 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1907
Abstract
Secondary caries is one of the main reasons for dental filling replacement. There is a need to obtain dental restorative material that is able to act against caries-inducing microorganisms. This study explores the antimicrobial properties of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) or dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide (DODAB)-modified [...] Read more.
Secondary caries is one of the main reasons for dental filling replacement. There is a need to obtain dental restorative material that is able to act against caries-inducing microorganisms. This study explores the antimicrobial properties of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) or dimethyldioctadecylammonium bromide (DODAB)-modified photo-cured experimental dental composites against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans. The antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans was assessed by using an Accuri C6 flow cytofluorimeter, and then analyzed using BD CSampler software (1.0.264). Bacterial/yeast surface colonization was carried out by using an GX71 inverted-optics fluorescence microscope equipped with a DP 73 digital camera. For bactericidal surface analysis of each sample type, simultaneous standardization was performed using a positive control (live cells) and a negative control (dead cells). A positive correlation between the increasing concentration of CTAB or DODAB and the dead cell ratio of Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans was revealed. In particular, CTAB at a 2.0 wt% concentration exhibits superior efficiency against pathogens (65.0% dead cells of Escherichia coli, 73.9% dead cells of Streptococcus mutans, and 23.9% dead cells of Candida albicans after 60 min). However, Candida albicans is more resistant to used salts than bacteria. A CTAB- or DODAB-modified experimental dental composite exhibits antimicrobial potential against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans after 10 and 60 min of incubation, and the antimicrobial efficiency increases with the wt% of QAS in the tested material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Dental Biomaterials)
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15 pages, 2697 KiB  
Article
Yeast Particle Encapsulation of Azole Fungicides for Enhanced Treatment of Azole-Resistant Candida albicans
by Ernesto R. Soto, Florentina Rus and Gary R. Ostroff
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(8), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15080203 - 23 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1607
Abstract
Addressing the growing problem of antifungal resistance in medicine and agriculture requires the development of new drugs and strategies to preserve the efficacy of existing fungicides. One approach is to utilize delivery technologies. Yeast particles (YPs) are 3–5 µm porous, hollow microspheres, a [...] Read more.
Addressing the growing problem of antifungal resistance in medicine and agriculture requires the development of new drugs and strategies to preserve the efficacy of existing fungicides. One approach is to utilize delivery technologies. Yeast particles (YPs) are 3–5 µm porous, hollow microspheres, a byproduct of food-grade Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast extract manufacturing processes and an efficient and flexible drug delivery platform. Here, we report the use of YPs for encapsulation of tetraconazole (TET) and prothioconazole (PRO) with high payload capacity and stability. The YP PRO samples were active against both sensitive and azole-resistant strains of Candida albicans. The higher efficacy of YP PRO versus free PRO is due to interactions between PRO and saponifiable lipids in the YPs. Encapsulation of PRO in glucan lipid particles (GLPs), a highly purified form of YPs that do not contain saponifiable lipids, did not result in enhanced PRO activity. We evaluated the co-encapsulation of PRO with a mixture of the terpenes: geraniol, eugenol, and thymol. Samples co-encapsulating PRO and terpenes in YPs or GLPs were active on both sensitive and azole-resistant C. albicans. These approaches could lead to the development of more effective drug combinations co-encapsulated in YPs for agricultural or GLPs for pharmaceutical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Biomedical Materials and Their Applications)
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41 pages, 11168 KiB  
Article
Bioactive Hydrogel Formulation Based on Ferulic Acid-Grafted Nano-Chitosan and Bacterial Nanocellulose Enriched with Selenium Nanoparticles from Kombucha Fermentation
by Naomi Tritean, Luminița Dimitriu, Ștefan-Ovidiu Dima, Marius Ghiurea, Bogdan Trică, Cristian-Andi Nicolae, Ionuț Moraru, Alina Nicolescu, Anisoara Cimpean, Florin Oancea and Diana Constantinescu-Aruxandei
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070202 - 22 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3067
Abstract
Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have specific properties that result from their biosynthesis particularities. Chitosan can prevent pathogenic biofilm development. A wide palette of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) biological and physical-chemical properties are known. The aim of this study was to develop a hydrogel formulation (SeBNCSFa) [...] Read more.
Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have specific properties that result from their biosynthesis particularities. Chitosan can prevent pathogenic biofilm development. A wide palette of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) biological and physical-chemical properties are known. The aim of this study was to develop a hydrogel formulation (SeBNCSFa) based on ferulic acid-grafted chitosan and bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) enriched with SeNPs from Kombucha fermentation (SeNPsK), which could be used as an adjuvant for oral implant integration and other applications. The grafted chitosan and SeBNCSFa were characterized by biochemical and physical-chemical methods. The cell viability and proliferation of HGF-1 gingival fibroblasts were investigated, as well as their in vitro antioxidant activity. The inflammatory response was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of the proinflammatory mediators (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) in cell culture medium. Likewise, the amount of nitric oxide released was measured by the Griess reaction. The antimicrobial activity was also investigated. The grafting degree with ferulic acid was approximately 1.780 ± 0.07% of the total chitosan monomeric units, assuming single-site grafting per monomer. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy evidenced a convolution of BNC and grafted chitosan spectra, and X-ray diffraction analysis highlighted an amorphous rearrangement of the diffraction patterns, suggesting multiple interactions. The hydrogel showed a high degree of cytocompatibility, and enhanced antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial potentials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional and Protective Coatings for Implants and Tissue Engineering Formulations)
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16 pages, 4448 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Bone Substitute Containing Tricalcium Phosphate and Silver Modified Hydroxyapatite–Methylcellulose Granules
by Joanna P. Czechowska, Annett Dorner-Reisel and Aneta Zima
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070196 - 17 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1514
Abstract
Despite years of extensive research, achieving the optimal properties for calcium phosphate-based biomaterials remains an ongoing challenge. Recently, ‘biomicroconcretes’ systems consisting of setting-phase-forming bone cement matrix and aggregates (granules/microspheres) have been developed and studied. However, further investigations are necessary to clarify the complex [...] Read more.
Despite years of extensive research, achieving the optimal properties for calcium phosphate-based biomaterials remains an ongoing challenge. Recently, ‘biomicroconcretes’ systems consisting of setting-phase-forming bone cement matrix and aggregates (granules/microspheres) have been developed and studied. However, further investigations are necessary to clarify the complex interplay between the synthesis, structure, and properties of these materials. This article focusses on the development and potential applications of hybrid biomaterials based on alpha-tricalcium phosphate (αTCP), hydroxyapatite (HA) and methylcellulose (MC) modified with silver (0.1 wt.% or 1.0 wt.%). The study presents the synthesis and characterization of silver-modified hybrid granules and seeks to determine the possibility and efficiency of incorporating these hybrid granules into αTCP-based biomicroconcretes. The αTCP and hydroxyapatite provide structural integrity and osteoconductivity, the presence of silver imparts antimicrobial properties, and MC allows for the self-assembling of granules. This combination creates an ideal environment for bone regeneration, while it potentially may prevent bacterial colonization and infection. The material’s chemical and phase composition, setting times, compressive strength, microstructure, chemical stability, and bioactive potential in simulated body fluid are systematically investigated. The results of the setting time measurements showed that both the size and the composition of granules (especially the hybrid nature) have an impact on the setting process of biomicroconcretes. The addition of silver resulted in prolonged setting times compared to the unmodified materials. Developed biomicroconcretes, despite exhibiting lower compressive strength compared to traditional calcium phosphate cements, fall within the range of human cancellous bone and demonstrate chemical stability and bioactive potential, indicating their suitability for bone substitution and regeneration. Further in vitro studies and in vivo assessments are needed to check the potential of these biomaterials in clinical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydroxyapatite Composites for Biomedical Application)
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17 pages, 18494 KiB  
Article
Sheep Bone Ultrastructure Analyses Reveal Differences in Bone Maturation around Mg-Based and Ti Implants
by Kamila Iskhakova, D. C. Florian Wieland, Romy Marek, Uwe Y. Schwarze, Anton Davydok, Hanna Cwieka, Tamadur AlBaraghtheh, Jan Reimers, Birte Hindenlang, Sandra Sefa, André Lopes Marinho, Regine Willumeit-Römer and Berit Zeller-Plumhoff
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070192 - 12 Jul 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1553
Abstract
Magnesium alloys are some of the most convenient biodegradable materials for bone fracture treatment due to their tailorable degradation rate, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties resembling those of bone. Despite the fact that magnesium-based implants and ZX00 (Mg-0.45Zn-0.45Ca in wt.%), in particular, have been [...] Read more.
Magnesium alloys are some of the most convenient biodegradable materials for bone fracture treatment due to their tailorable degradation rate, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties resembling those of bone. Despite the fact that magnesium-based implants and ZX00 (Mg-0.45Zn-0.45Ca in wt.%), in particular, have been shown to have suitable degradation rates and good osseointegration, knowledge gaps remain in our understanding of the impact of their degradation properties on the bone’s ultrastructure. Bone is a hierarchically structured material, where not only the microstructure but also the ultrastructure are important as properties like the local mechanical response are determined by it. This study presents the first comparative analysis of bone ultrastructure parameters with high spatial resolution around ZX00 and Ti implants after 6, 12, and 24 weeks of healing. The mineralization was investigated, revealing a significant decrease in the lattice spacing of the (002) Bragg’s peak closer to the ZX00 implant in comparison to Ti, while no significant difference in the crystallite size was observed. The hydroxyapatite platelet thickness and osteon density demonstrated a decrease closer to the ZX00 implant interface. Correlative indentation and strain maps obtained by scanning X-ray diffraction measurements revealed a higher stiffness and faster mechanical adaptation of the bone surrounding Ti implants as compared to the ZX00 ones. Thus, the results suggest the incorporation of Mg2+ ions into the bone ultrastructure, as well as a lower degree of remodeling and stiffness of the bone in the presence of ZX00 implants than Ti. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bone Biomaterials)
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15 pages, 5346 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effect of Polyethylene Glycol and Lactic Acid on Handling Properties and Antibacterial Efficacy of Premixed Calcium Silicate Cement
by Yi-Huei Huang, I-Ting Wu, Chun-Cheng Chen and Shinn-Jyh Ding
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070187 - 5 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2174
Abstract
Calcium silicate (CaSi) bone cement with antibacterial and osteogenic properties has attracted significant interest. However, there is a need to develop a variety of new premixed bone cement to meet the clinical requirements of fast setting time, ease of handling, and efficient antibacterial [...] Read more.
Calcium silicate (CaSi) bone cement with antibacterial and osteogenic properties has attracted significant interest. However, there is a need to develop a variety of new premixed bone cement to meet the clinical requirements of fast setting time, ease of handling, and efficient antibacterial properties. In this study, different volume ratios of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lactic acid liquids were added to calcium silicate, and the effects of varying liquid-to-powder ratios (L/P) were examined. This study assessed the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity, and antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli of this premixed cement. The results from the experiments indicated that lactic acid significantly reduced the setting time of the CaSi-based cement and enhanced its mechanical strength. Furthermore, the appropriate concentration of lactic acid and matching L/P ratio improved its washout resistance. The cell viability of all premixed cement was found to be over 80%. The premixed cement containing PEG and lactic acid exhibited superior antibacterial properties compared to the CaSi control. Based on its setting time, washout resistance, and antibacterial activity, a premixed cement with a liquid phase of 80% PEG and 20% lactic acid at an L/P ratio of 0.4 appeared promising for use in dental and orthopedic practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Biomaterials for Medical Applications)
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22 pages, 10260 KiB  
Article
Alginate-Sr/Mg Containing Bioactive Glass Scaffolds: The Characterization of a New 3D Composite for Bone Tissue Engineering
by Benedetta Guagnini, Barbara Medagli, Bianca Zumbo, Valeria Cannillo, Gianluca Turco, Davide Porrelli and Devis Bellucci
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070183 - 2 Jul 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2559
Abstract
In bone regeneration, combining natural polymer-based scaffolds with Bioactive Glasses (BGs) is an attractive strategy to improve the mechanical properties of the structure, as well as its bioactivity and regenerative potential. Methods: For this purpose, a well-studied alginate/hydroxyapatite (Alg/HAp) porous scaffold was enhanced [...] Read more.
In bone regeneration, combining natural polymer-based scaffolds with Bioactive Glasses (BGs) is an attractive strategy to improve the mechanical properties of the structure, as well as its bioactivity and regenerative potential. Methods: For this purpose, a well-studied alginate/hydroxyapatite (Alg/HAp) porous scaffold was enhanced with an experimental bioglass (BGMS10), characterized by a high crystallization temperature and containing therapeutic ions such as strontium and magnesium. This resulted in an improved biological response compared to 45S5 Bioglass®, the “gold” standard among BGs. Porous composite scaffolds were fabricated by freeze-drying technique and characterized by scanning electron microscopy and microanalysis, infrared spectroscopy, and microcomputed tomography. The mechanical properties and cytocompatibility of the new scaffold composition were also evaluated. The addition of bioglass to the Alg/HAp network resulted in a slightly lower porosity. However, despite the change in pore size, the MG-63 cells were able to better adhere and proliferate when cultured for one week on a BG scaffold compared to the control Alg/HAp scaffolds. Thus, our findings indicate that the combination of bioactive glass BGMS10 does not affect the structural and physicochemical properties of the Alg/HAp scaffold and confers bioactive properties to the structures, making the Alg/HAp-BGMS10 scaffold a promising candidate for future application in bone tissue regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydroxyapatite Composites for Biomedical Application)
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16 pages, 3539 KiB  
Article
Formulation Effects on the Mechano-Physical Properties of In Situ-Forming Resilient Hydrogels for Breast Tissue Regeneration
by Daniella Goder Orbach and Meital Zilberman
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070176 - 28 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1359
Abstract
The need for a long-term solution for filling the defects created during partial mastectomies due to breast cancer diagnosis has not been met to date. All available defect-filling methods are non-permanent and necessitate repeat procedures. Here, we report on novel injectable porous hydrogel [...] Read more.
The need for a long-term solution for filling the defects created during partial mastectomies due to breast cancer diagnosis has not been met to date. All available defect-filling methods are non-permanent and necessitate repeat procedures. Here, we report on novel injectable porous hydrogel structures based on the natural polymers gelatin and alginate, which are designed to serve for breast reconstruction and regeneration following partial mastectomy. The effects of the formulation parameters on the mechanical and physical properties were thoroughly studied. The modulus in compression and tension were in the range of native breast tissue. Both increased with the increase in the crosslinker concentration and the polymer–air ratio. Resilience was very high, above 93% for most studied formulations, allowing the scaffold to be continuously deformed without changing its shape. The combination of high resilience and low elastic modulus is favored for adipose tissue regeneration. The physical properties of gelation time and water uptake are controllable and are affected mainly by the alginate and N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N’-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) concentrations and less by the polymer–air ratio. In vitro cell viability tests were performed on mouse preadipocytes and indicated high biocompatibility. The minimally invasive nature of this approach, along with the excellent properties of the scaffold, will enable the filling of complex voids while simultaneously decreasing surgical costs and greatly improving patient well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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13 pages, 2775 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Filament-Based TCP Scaffold Design for Osteoconduction and Bone Augmentation: Insights from In Vivo Rabbit Models
by Julien Guerrero, Ekaterina Maevskaia, Chafik Ghayor, Indranil Bhattacharya and Franz E. Weber
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(7), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15070174 - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1583
Abstract
Additive manufacturing has emerged as a transformative tool in biomedical engineering, offering precise control over scaffold design for bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. While much attention has been focused on optimizing pore-based scaffold architectures, filament-based microarchitectures remain relatively understudied, despite the fact [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing has emerged as a transformative tool in biomedical engineering, offering precise control over scaffold design for bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. While much attention has been focused on optimizing pore-based scaffold architectures, filament-based microarchitectures remain relatively understudied, despite the fact that the majority of 3D-printers generate filament-based structures. Here, we investigated the influence of filament characteristics on bone regeneration outcomes using a lithography-based additive manufacturing approach. Three distinct filament-based scaffolds (Fil050, Fil083, and Fil125) identical in macroporosity and transparency, crafted from tri-calcium phosphate (TCP) with varying filament thicknesses and distance, were evaluated in a rabbit model of bone augmentation and non-critical calvarial defect. Additionally, two scaffold types differing in filament directionality (Fil and FilG) were compared to elucidate optimal design parameters. Distance of bone ingrowth and percentage of regenerated area within scaffolds were measured by histomorphometric analysis. Our findings reveal filaments of 0.50 mm as the most effective filament-based scaffold, demonstrating superior bone ingrowth and bony regenerated area compared to larger size filament (i.e., 0.83 mm and 1.25 mm scaffolds). Optimized directionality of filaments can overcome the reduced performance of larger filaments. This study advances our understanding of microarchitecture’s role in bone tissue engineering and holds significant implications for clinical practice, paving the way for the development of highly tailored, patient-specific bone substitutes with enhanced efficacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bone Tissue Engineering: Recent Advances and Translation to Clinical Application)
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23 pages, 58669 KiB  
Article
Development of Novel Antibacterial Ti-Nb-Ga Alloys with Low Stiffness for Medical Implant Applications
by Rhianna McHendrie, Ngoc Huu Nguyen, Manh Tuong Nguyen, Khosro Fallahnezhad, Krasimir Vasilev, Vi Khanh Truong and Reza Hashemi
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060167 - 17 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2721
Abstract
With the rising demand for medical implants and the dominance of implant-associated failures including infections, extensive research has been prompted into the development of novel biomaterials that can offer desirable characteristics. This study develops and evaluates new titanium-based alloys containing gallium additions with [...] Read more.
With the rising demand for medical implants and the dominance of implant-associated failures including infections, extensive research has been prompted into the development of novel biomaterials that can offer desirable characteristics. This study develops and evaluates new titanium-based alloys containing gallium additions with the aim of offering beneficial antibacterial properties while having a reduced stiffness level to minimise the effect of stress shielding when in contact with bone. The focus is on the microstructure, mechanical properties, antimicrobial activity, and cytocompatibility to inform the suitability of the designed alloys as biometals. Novel Ti-33Nb-xGa alloys (x = 3, 5 wt%) were produced via casting followed by homogenisation treatment, where all results were compared to the currently employed alloy Ti-6Al-4V. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) results depicted a single beta (β) phase microstructure in both Ga-containing alloys, where Ti-33Nb-5Ga was also dominated by dendritic alpha (α) phase grains in a β-phase matrix. EDS analysis indicated that the α-phase dendrites in Ti-33Nb-5Ga were enriched with titanium, while the β-phase was richer in niobium and gallium elements. Mechanical properties were measured using nanoindentation and microhardness methods, where the Young’s modulus for Ti-33Nb-3Ga and Ti-33Nb-5Ga was found to be 75.4 ± 2.4 and 67.2 ± 1.6 GPa, respectively, a significant reduction of 37% and 44% with respect to Ti-6Al-4V. This reduction helps address the disproportionate Young’s modulus between titanium implant components and cortical bone. Importantly, both alloys successfully achieved superior antimicrobial properties against Gram-negative P. aeruginosa and Gram-positive S. aureus bacteria. Antibacterial efficacy was noted at up to 90 ± 5% for the 3 wt% alloy and 95 ± 3% for the 5 wt% alloy. These findings signify a substantial enhancement of the antimicrobial performance when compared to Ti-6Al-4V which exhibited very small rates (up to 6.3 ± 1.5%). No cytotoxicity was observed in hGF cell lines over 24 h. Cell morphology and cytoskeleton distribution appeared to depict typical morphology with a prominent nucleus, elongated fibroblastic spindle-shaped morphology, and F-actin filamentous stress fibres in a well-defined structure of parallel bundles along the cellular axis. The developed alloys in this work have shown very promising results and are suggested to be further examined towards the use of orthopaedic implant components. Full article
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20 pages, 7676 KiB  
Article
Silver-Doped Titanium Oxide Layers for Improved Photocatalytic Activity and Antibacterial Properties of Titanium Implants
by Aya Ali, Likhitha Polepalli, Sheetal Chowdhury, Mary A. Carr, Amol V. Janorkar, Mary E. Marquart, Jason A. Griggs, Joel D. Bumgardner and Michael D. Roach
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060163 - 14 Jun 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1960
Abstract
Titanium has a long history of clinical use, but the naturally forming oxide is not ideal for bacterial resistance. Anodization processes can modify the crystallinity, surface topography, and surface chemistry of titanium oxides. Anatase, rutile, and mixed phase oxides are known to exhibit [...] Read more.
Titanium has a long history of clinical use, but the naturally forming oxide is not ideal for bacterial resistance. Anodization processes can modify the crystallinity, surface topography, and surface chemistry of titanium oxides. Anatase, rutile, and mixed phase oxides are known to exhibit photocatalytic activity (PCA)-driven bacterial resistance under UVA irradiation. Silver additions are reported to enhance PCA and reduce bacterial attachment. This study investigated the effects of silver-doping additions to three established anodization processes. Silver doping showed no significant influence on oxide crystallinity, surface topography, or surface wettability. Oxides from a sulfuric acid anodization process exhibited significantly enhanced PCA after silver doping, but silver-doped oxides produced from phosphoric-acid-containing electrolytes did not. Staphylococcus aureus attachment was also assessed under dark and UVA-irradiated conditions on each oxide. Each oxide exhibited a photocatalytic antimicrobial effect as indicated by significantly decreased bacterial attachment under UVA irradiation compared to dark conditions. However, only the phosphorus-doped mixed anatase and rutile phase oxide exhibited an additional significant reduction in bacteria attachment under UVA irradiation as a result of silver doping. The antimicrobial success of this oxide was attributed to the combination of the mixed phase oxide and higher silver-doping uptake levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Titanium-Based Implants: Advances in Materials and Applications)
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13 pages, 17899 KiB  
Article
A Two-Stage Approach Integrating Provisional Biomaterial-Mediated Stabilization Followed by a Definitive Treatment for Managing Volumetric Muscle Loss Injuries
by Andrew R. Clark, Jonathan Kulwatno, Sergey S. Kanovka, George J. Klarmann, Claudia E. Hernandez, Roman M. Natoli, Todd O. McKinley, Benjamin K. Potter, Christopher L. Dearth and Stephen M. Goldman
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060160 - 6 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1582
Abstract
Treatment of volumetric muscle loss (VML) faces challenges due to its unique pathobiology and lower priority in severe musculoskeletal injury management. Consequently, a need exists for multi-stage VML treatment strategies to accommodate delayed interventions owing to comorbidity management or prolonged casualty care in [...] Read more.
Treatment of volumetric muscle loss (VML) faces challenges due to its unique pathobiology and lower priority in severe musculoskeletal injury management. Consequently, a need exists for multi-stage VML treatment strategies to accommodate delayed interventions owing to comorbidity management or prolonged casualty care in combat settings. To this end, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was used at concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10% to generate provisional muscle void fillers (MVFs) of varying stiffness values (1.125 kPa, 3.700 kPa, and 7.699 kPa) to stabilize VML injuries as part of a two-stage approach. These were implanted into a rat model for a duration of 4 weeks, then explanted and either left untreated (control) or treated through minced muscle grafting (MMG). Additional benchmarks included acute MMG and unrepaired groups. At the MVF explant, the 7.5% PVA group exhibited superior neuromuscular function compared to the 5% and 10% PVA groups, the least fibrosis, and the largest median myofiber size among all groups at the 12-week endpoint. Despite the 7.5% PVA’s superiority amongst the two-stage treatment groups, neuromuscular function was neither improved nor impaired relative to acute treatment benchmarks. This suggests that the future success of a two-stage VML treatment strategy will necessitate a more effective definitive intervention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biomaterials in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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14 pages, 5642 KiB  
Article
Comparison between Conventional and Digital Workflow in Implant Prosthetic Rehabilitation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
by Massimo Corsalini, Giuseppe Barile, Francesco Ranieri, Edvige Morea, Tommaso Corsalini, Saverio Capodiferro and Rosario Roberto Palumbo
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060149 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2941
Abstract
The progress of digital technologies in dental prosthodontics is fast and increasingly accurate, allowing practitioners to simplify their daily work. These technologies aim to substitute conventional techniques progressively, but their real efficiency and predictability are still under debate. Many systematic reviews emphasize the [...] Read more.
The progress of digital technologies in dental prosthodontics is fast and increasingly accurate, allowing practitioners to simplify their daily work. These technologies aim to substitute conventional techniques progressively, but their real efficiency and predictability are still under debate. Many systematic reviews emphasize the lack of clinical RCTs that compare digital and traditional workflow. To address this evidence, we conducted a three-arm designed clinical RCT, which compares fully digital, combined digital, and analogic and fully analog workflows. We aimed to compare the clinical properties of each workflow regarding interproximal (IC) and occlusal contact (OC), marginal fit, impression time (IT), and patient satisfaction through a VAS scale. In total, 72 patients were included in the study. The IC and OC of the digital workflow were better than the others (p < 0.001), which obtained similar results. No difference between implant–abutment fit was observed (p = 0.5966). The IT was shorter in the digital workflow than the others (p < 0.001), which were similar. Patient satisfaction was higher in the digital workflow than in the conventional one. Despite the limitations, this study’s results support better accuracy and patient tolerance of digital workflow than of conventional techniques, suggesting it as a viable alternative to the latter when performed by clinicians experienced in digital dentistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Trends in Biomaterials and Implants for Dentistry (2nd Edition))
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14 pages, 4868 KiB  
Article
Laser Ablation Facilitates Implantation of Dynamic Self-Regenerating Cartilage for Articular Cartilage Regeneration
by Yingfang Fan, Fernando P. S. Guastaldi, Gem Runyan, Ying Wang, William A. Farinelli, Mark A. Randolph and Robert W. Redmond
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060148 - 29 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1383
Abstract
Objectives: This study investigated a novel strategy for improving regenerative cartilage outcomes. It combines fractional laser treatment with the implantation of neocartilage generated from autologous dynamic Self-Regenerating Cartilage (dSRC). Methods: dSRC was generated in vitro from harvested autologous swine chondrocytes. Culture was performed [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study investigated a novel strategy for improving regenerative cartilage outcomes. It combines fractional laser treatment with the implantation of neocartilage generated from autologous dynamic Self-Regenerating Cartilage (dSRC). Methods: dSRC was generated in vitro from harvested autologous swine chondrocytes. Culture was performed for 2, 4, 8, 10, and 12 weeks to study matrix maturation. Matrix formation and implant integration were also studied in vitro in swine cartilage discs using dSRC or cultured chondrocytes injected into CO2 laser-ablated or mechanically punched holes. Cartilage discs were cultured for up to 8 weeks, harvested, and evaluated histologically and immunohistochemically. Results: The dSRC matrix was injectable by week 2, and matrices grew larger and more solid with time, generating a contiguous neocartilage matrix by week 8. Hypercellular density in dSRC at week 2 decreased over time and approached that of native cartilage by week 8. All dSRC groups exhibited high glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production, and immunohistochemical staining confirmed that the matrix was typical of normal hyaline cartilage, being rich in collagen type II. After 8 weeks in cartilage lesions in vitro, dSRC constructs generated a contiguous cartilage matrix, while isolated cultured chondrocytes exhibited only a sparse pericellular matrix. dSRC-treated lesions exhibited high GAG production compared to those treated with isolated chondrocytes. Conclusions: Isolated dSRC exhibits hyaline cartilage formation, matures over time, and generates contiguous articular cartilage matrix in fractional laser-created microenvironments in vitro, being well integrated with native cartilage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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15 pages, 4041 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Gingival Fibroblasts Behaviour in the Presence of 3D-Printed versus Milled Methacrylate-Based Dental Resins—Do We Have a Winner?
by Veaceslav Saramet, Miruna S. Stan, Alexandra Ripszky Totan, Ana Maria Cristina Țâncu, Bianca Voicu-Balasea, Dan Sebastian Enasescu, Florentina Rus-Hrincu and Marina Imre
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060147 - 28 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2019
Abstract
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) techniques are based on either subtractive (milling prefabricated blocks) or additive (3D printing) methods, and both are used for obtaining dentistry materials. Our in vitro study aimed to investigate the behavior of human gingival fibroblasts exposed to [...] Read more.
Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) techniques are based on either subtractive (milling prefabricated blocks) or additive (3D printing) methods, and both are used for obtaining dentistry materials. Our in vitro study aimed to investigate the behavior of human gingival fibroblasts exposed to methacrylate (MA)-based CAD/CAM milled samples in comparison with that of MA-based 3D-printed samples to better elucidate the mechanisms of cell adaptability and survival. The proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts was measured after 2 and 24 h of incubation in the presence of these samples using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and the membrane integrity was assessed through the lactate dehydrogenase release. The level of reactive oxygen species, expression of autophagy-related protein LC3B-I, and detection of GSH and caspase 3/7 were evaluated by fluorescence staining. The MMP-2 levels were measured using a Milliplex MAP kit. The incubation with MA-based 3D-printed samples significantly reduced the viability, by 16% and 28% from control after 2 and 24 h, respectively. There was a 25% and 55% decrease in the GSH level from control after 24 h of incubation with the CAD/CAM milled and 3D-printed samples, respectively. In addition, higher levels of LC3B-I and MMP-2 were obtained after 24 h of incubation with the MA-based 3D samples compared to the CAD/CAM milled ones. Therefore, our results outline that the MA-CAD/CAM milled samples displayed good biocompatibility during 24-h exposure, while MA-3D resins are proper for short-term utilization (less than 24 h). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)
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12 pages, 1486 KiB  
Article
Biocompatibility of Subperiosteal Dental Implants: Changes in the Expression of Osteogenesis-Related Genes in Osteoblasts Exposed to Differently Treated Titanium Surfaces
by Marco Roy, Elisa Chelucci, Alessandro Corti, Lorenzo Ceccarelli, Mauro Cerea, Barbara Dorocka-Bobkowska, Alfonso Pompella and Simona Daniele
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060146 - 27 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1743
Abstract
The use of endosseous dental implants may become unfeasible in the presence of significant maxillary bone atrophy; thus, surgical techniques have been proposed to promote bone regeneration in such cases. However, such techniques are complex and may expose the patient to complications. Subperiosteal [...] Read more.
The use of endosseous dental implants may become unfeasible in the presence of significant maxillary bone atrophy; thus, surgical techniques have been proposed to promote bone regeneration in such cases. However, such techniques are complex and may expose the patient to complications. Subperiosteal implants, being placed between the periosteum and the residual alveolar bone, are largely independent of bone thickness. Such devices had been abandoned due to the complexity of positioning and adaptation to the recipient bone site, but are nowadays witnessing an era of revival following the introduction of new acquisition procedures, new materials, and innovative manufacturing methods. We have analyzed the changes induced in gene and protein expression in C-12720 human osteoblasts by differently surface-modified TiO2 materials to verify their ability to promote bone formation. The TiO2 materials tested were (i) raw machined, (ii) electropolished with acid mixture, (iii) sand-blasted + acid-etched, (iv) AlTiColorTM surface, and (v) anodized. All five surfaces efficiently stimulated the expression of markers of osteoblastic differentiation, adhesion, and osteogenesis, such as RUNX2, osteocalcin, osterix, N-cadherin, β-catenin, and osteoprotegerin, while cell viability/proliferation was unaffected. Collectively, our observations document that presently available TiO2 materials are well suited for the manufacturing of modern subperiosteal implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthodontic Biomaterials: From the Past to the Present)
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22 pages, 3618 KiB  
Article
Elasticity Modification of Biomaterials Used in 3D Printing with an Elastin–Silk-like Recombinant Protein
by Violetta Cecuda-Adamczewska, Agnieszka Romanik-Chruścielewska, Katarzyna Kosowska, Iwona Sokołowska, Natalia Łukasiewicz, Paulina Korycka, Katarzyna Florys-Jankowska, Agnieszka Zakrzewska, Michał Wszoła and Marta Klak
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(6), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15060141 - 24 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1835
Abstract
The recombinant structural protein described in this study was designed based on sequences derived from elastin and silk. Silk–elastin hybrid copolymers are characterized by high solubility while maintaining high product flexibility. The phase transition temperature from aqueous solution to hydrogel, as well as [...] Read more.
The recombinant structural protein described in this study was designed based on sequences derived from elastin and silk. Silk–elastin hybrid copolymers are characterized by high solubility while maintaining high product flexibility. The phase transition temperature from aqueous solution to hydrogel, as well as other physicochemical and mechanical properties of such particles, can differ significantly depending on the number of sequence repeats. We present a preliminary characterization of the EJ17zipR protein obtained in high yield in a prokaryotic expression system and efficiently purified via a multistep process. Its addition significantly improves biomaterial’s rheological and mechanical properties, especially elasticity. As a result, EJ17zipR appears to be a promising component for bioinks designed to print spatially complex structures that positively influence both shape retention and the internal transport of body fluids. The results of biological studies indicate that the addition of the studied protein creates a favorable microenvironment for cell adhesion, growth, and migration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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13 pages, 3667 KiB  
Article
Strategic Use of Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix (BTM) in Wound Healing: A Case Series in Asian Patients
by Angela Chien-Yu Chen, Tsuo-Wu Lin, Ke-Chung Chang and Dun-Hao Chang
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050136 - 18 May 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3347
Abstract
Skin and soft tissue reconstruction has long been based on the reconstructive ladder. However, a skin substitute has become popular due to its predictable outcomes, without donor-site morbidity. The biodegradable temporizing matrix (BTM; NovoSorb, PolyNovo Ltd., Port Melbourne, Australia) is a synthetic skin [...] Read more.
Skin and soft tissue reconstruction has long been based on the reconstructive ladder. However, a skin substitute has become popular due to its predictable outcomes, without donor-site morbidity. The biodegradable temporizing matrix (BTM; NovoSorb, PolyNovo Ltd., Port Melbourne, Australia) is a synthetic skin substitute that has recently gained its clinical application. Compared with those of other dermal templates, the clinical efficacy and performance of the BTM are not well established, especially among the Asian population. This study aims to share our experience and strategy of using BTM in various wound conditions. The data of patients who underwent skin and soft tissue reconstruction with BTM at a single institution between January 2022 and December 2023 were reviewed. The patient demographics, wound characteristics, surgical details, secondary procedures, and complications were recorded and analyzed. Postoperative 6-month photographs were collected and independently evaluated by two plastic surgeons and two wound care center nurses using the Manchester Scar Scale (MSS). This study included 37 patients, consisting of 22 males and 15 females with a mean age of 51.8 years (range, 18–86 years old). The wound etiologies included trauma (67.6%), necrotizing soft tissue infection (16.2%), burns (10.8%), toe gangrene (2.7%), and scar excision (2.7%). The average wound area covered by BTM was 50.6 ± 47.6 cm2. Among the patients, eight received concomitant flap surgery and BTM implantation, 20 (54.1%) underwent subsequent split-thickness skin grafts (STSG), and 17 had small wounds (mean: 21.6 cm2) healed by secondary intention. Infection was the most common complication, affecting six patients (n = 6 [16.2%]), five of whom were treated conservatively, and only one required debridement. Thirty-three patients (89.2%) had good BTM take, and only four had BTM failure, requiring further reconstruction. At the last follow-up, 35 out of the 37 patients (94.6%) achieved successful wound closure, and the total MSS score was 10.44 ± 2.94, indicating a satisfactory scar condition. The patients who underwent BTM grafting without STSG had better scar scores than those who received STSG (8.71 ± 2.60 vs. 11.18 ± 2.84, p = 0.039). In conclusion, the BTM is effective and feasible in treating various wounds, with relatively low complication rates, and it can thus be considered as an alternative for skin and soft tissue reconstruction. When combined with adipofasical flap reconstruction, it achieves a more comprehensive anatomical restoration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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23 pages, 3594 KiB  
Article
Preparation and In Vitro Characterization of Lactococcus lactis-Loaded Alginate Particles as a Promising Delivery Tool for Periodontal Probiotic Therapy
by Bettina Wuttke, Katharina Ekat, Oleksandra Chabanovska, Mario Jackszis, Armin Springer, Praveen Vasudevan, Bernd Kreikemeyer and Hermann Lang
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050129 - 15 May 2024
Viewed by 1689
Abstract
Probiotic microorganisms are used in a variety of food supplements and medical formulations to promote human health. In periodontal therapy, probiotics are mainly used in the form of gels, tablets or rinses that often tend to leak from the periodontal pocket, resulting in [...] Read more.
Probiotic microorganisms are used in a variety of food supplements and medical formulations to promote human health. In periodontal therapy, probiotics are mainly used in the form of gels, tablets or rinses that often tend to leak from the periodontal pocket, resulting in a strongly reduced therapeutic effect. In this pilot in vitro study, we present biodegradable alginate-based particles as an alternative, highly efficient system for a periodontal delivery of probiotic bacteria to the inflammation site. For this purpose, Lactococcus (L.) lactis was encapsulated using a standardized pump-controlled extrusion-dripping method. Time-dependent bacterial release in artificial saliva was investigated over 9 days. The effect of freeze drying was explored to ensure long-term storage of L. lactis-loaded particles. Additionally, the particles were bound to dentin surface using approved bioadhesives and subjected to shear stress in a hydrodynamic flow chamber that mimics the oral cavity in vitro. Thus, round particles within the range of 0.80–1.75 mm in radius could be produced, whereby the diameter of the dripping tip had the most significant impact on the size. Although both small and large particles demonstrated a similar release trend of L. lactis, the release rate was significantly higher in the former. Following lyophilization, particles could restore their original shape within 4 h in artificial saliva; thereby, the bacterial viability was not affected. The attachment strength to dentin intensified by an adhesive could resist forces between 10 and 25 N/m2. Full degradation of the particles was observed after 20 days in artificial saliva. Therefore, alginate particles display a valuable probiotic carrier for periodontal applications that have several crucial advantages over existing preparations: a highly stable form, prolonged continuous release of therapeutic bacteria, precise manufacturing according to required dimensions at the application site, strong attachment to the tooth with low risk of dislocation, high biocompatibility and biodegradability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biomaterials for Periodontal Regeneration)
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11 pages, 3600 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Open versus Closed Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing Systems on the Marginal Gap of Zirconia-Reinforced Lithium Silicate Single Crowns Evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy: A Comparative In Vitro Study
by Asaf Shely, Joseph Nissan, Ofir Rosner, Eran Zenziper, Diva Lugassy, Khadija Abidulkrem and Gil Ben-Izhack
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050130 - 15 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1540
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the impact of CAD/CAM closed systems and open systems on the marginal gap of monolithic zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) ceramic crowns, as both systems are used in everyday dentistry, both chair-side and laboratory. For the closed system, 20 [...] Read more.
This study aimed to compare the impact of CAD/CAM closed systems and open systems on the marginal gap of monolithic zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) ceramic crowns, as both systems are used in everyday dentistry, both chair-side and laboratory. For the closed system, 20 plastic teeth were scanned by a Primescan intra-oral scanner (IOS), and for the open system, the same number of plastic teeth were scanned by Trios 4 IOS. For the closed system, CEREC software was used, and for the open system, EXOCAD software was used. All 40 ZLS crowns were grinded by the same four-axis machine and cemented with Temp-bond, followed by self-adhesive resin cement. For each type of cement, an evaluation of the marginal gap was conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Before comparisons between the groups, a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed on the study variables showing a normal distribution (p > 0.05). Independent T tests (α = 0.05) and paired-sample T tests (α = 0.05) were used. The independent T test found no significant mean marginal gap differences in the zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate crowns bonded with Temp-bond and scanned by Primescan (28.09 μm ± 3.06) compared to Trios 4 (28.94 μm ± 3.30) (p = 0.401), and there was no significant mean marginal gap differences in zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate crowns bonded with self-adhesive resin cement (Gcem ONE) and scanned by Primescan (46.70 μm ± 3.80) compared to Trios 4 (47.79 μm ± 2.59) (p = 0.295). Paired-sample T tests showed significantly higher mean marginal gaps with Gcem ONE compared to Temp-bond for the total mean marginal gap when scanning with Primescan (p = 0.0005) or Trios 4 (p = 0.0005). In everyday dentistry, both closed systems (Primescan with Cerec) and open systems (Trios 4 with Exocad) can be used to achieve an acceptable (<120 µm) marginal gap for ZLS CELTRA® DUO single crowns. There is a significant difference between cementation with Temp-bond and Gcem ONE self-adhesive resin cement (p < 0.05). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials in Dentistry 2024)
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17 pages, 5139 KiB  
Article
Resorbable Patient-Specific Implants of Molybdenum for Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery—Proof of Concept in an In Vivo Pilot Study
by Dominik Thomas Hoppe, André Toschka, Nadia Karnatz, Henriette Louise Moellmann, Maximilian Seidl, Lutz van Meenen, Georg Poehle, Christian Redlich and Majeed Rana
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050118 - 29 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1950
Abstract
Titanium continues to be the gold standard in the field of osteosynthesis materials. This also applies to pediatric craniofacial surgery. Various resorbable materials have already been developed in order to avoid costly and risky second operations to remove metal in children. However, none [...] Read more.
Titanium continues to be the gold standard in the field of osteosynthesis materials. This also applies to pediatric craniofacial surgery. Various resorbable materials have already been developed in order to avoid costly and risky second operations to remove metal in children. However, none of these resorbable materials have been able to completely replace the previous gold standard, titanium, in a satisfactory manner. This has led to the need for a new resorbable osteosynthesis material that fulfills the requirements for biocompatibility, stability, and uniform resorption. In our previous in vitro and in vivo work, we were able to show that molybdenum fulfills these requirements. To further confirm these results, we conducted a proof of concept in four domestic pigs, each of which was implanted with a resorbable molybdenum implant. The animals were then examined daily for local inflammatory parameters. After 54 days, the animals were euthanized with subsequent computer tomography imaging. We also removed the implants together with the surrounding tissue and parts of the spleen, liver, and kidney for histopathological evaluation. The molybdenum implants were also analyzed metallographically and using scanning electron microscopy. A blood sample was taken pre- and post-operatively. None of the animals showed clinical signs of inflammation over the entire test period. Histopathologically, good tissue compatibility was found. Early signs of degradation were observed after 54 days, which were not sufficient for major resorption. Resorption is expected with longer in situ residence times based on results of similar earlier investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Composites for Bone Implants and Osseointegration)
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21 pages, 5147 KiB  
Article
Investigating Bioactive-Glass-Infused Gels for Enamel Remineralization: An In Vitro Study
by Zbigniew Raszewski, Katarzyna Chojnacka and Marcin Mikulewicz
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050119 - 29 Apr 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2567
Abstract
Objective: Dental hypersensitivity remains widespread, underscoring the need for materials that can effectively seal dental tubules. This study evaluated the potential of bioactive-glass-infused hydroxyethyl cellulose gels in this context. Methods: Five gels were synthesized, each containing 20% bioactive glass (specifically, 45S5, S53P4, Biomin [...] Read more.
Objective: Dental hypersensitivity remains widespread, underscoring the need for materials that can effectively seal dental tubules. This study evaluated the potential of bioactive-glass-infused hydroxyethyl cellulose gels in this context. Methods: Five gels were synthesized, each containing 20% bioactive glass (specifically, 45S5, S53P4, Biomin F, and Biomin C), with an additional blank gel serving as a control. Subjected to two months of accelerated aging at 37 ± 2 °C, these gels were assessed for key properties: viscosity, water disintegration time, pH level, consistency, adhesion to glass, and element release capability. Results: Across the board, the gels facilitated the release of calcium, phosphate, and silicon ions, raising the pH from 9.00 ± 0.10 to 9.7 ± 0.0—a range conducive to remineralization. Dissolution in water occurred within 30–50 min post-application. Viscosity readings showed variability, with 45S5 reaching 6337 ± 24 mPa/s and Biomin F at 3269 ± 18 mPa/s after two months. Initial adhesion for the blank gel was measured at 0.27 ± 0.04 Pa, increasing to 0.73 ± 0.06 Pa for the others over time. Gels can release elements upon contact with water (Ca− Biomin C 104.8 ± 15.7 mg/L; Na− Biomin F 76.30 ± 11.44 mg/L; P− Biomin C 2.623 ± 0.393 mg/L; Si− 45S5-45.15 ± 6.77mg/L, F− Biomin F− 3.256 ± 0.651mg/L; Cl− Biomin C 135.5 ± 20.3 mg/L after 45 min). Conclusions: These findings highlight the gels’ capacity to kickstart the remineralization process by delivering critical ions needed for enamel layer reconstruction. Further exploration in more dynamic, real-world conditions is recommended to fully ascertain their practical utility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technologies and Materials for Application in Dental, Oral and Maxillofacial Engineering)
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17 pages, 3913 KiB  
Article
Apatite-Forming Ability and Visible Light-Enhanced Antibacterial Activity of CuO-Supported TiO2 Formed on Titanium by Chemical and Thermal Treatments
by Po-Cheng Sung, Taishi Yokoi, Masaya Shimabukuro, Takayuki Mokudai and Masakazu Kawashita
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050114 - 24 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2168
Abstract
Titanium with apatite-forming ability as well as antibacterial activity is useful as a component of antibacterial dental implants. When Ti was subjected to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), copper acetate (Cu(OAc)2), and heat (H2O2-Cu(OAc)2 [...] Read more.
Titanium with apatite-forming ability as well as antibacterial activity is useful as a component of antibacterial dental implants. When Ti was subjected to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), copper acetate (Cu(OAc)2), and heat (H2O2-Cu(OAc)2-heat) treatments, a network structure of anatase and rutile titanium dioxide (TiO2) and fine copper oxide (CuO) particles was formed on the Ti surface. The resulting samples accumulated a dense and uniform apatite layer on the surface when incubated in simulated body fluid and showed enhanced antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus under visible-light irradiation. Electron spin resonance spectra of H2O2-Cu(OAc)2-heat-treated samples showed that hydroxyl radicals (·OH) were generated from the samples, and the concentration of ·OH increased with increasing Cu concentration of the Cu(OAc)2 solution. The enhanced antibacterial activity of these samples under visible-light irradiation may be attributable to the generation of ·OH from samples. These results suggest that Ti implants obtained using H2O2-Cu(OAc)2-heat treatments and subjected to regular or on-demand visible-light irradiation may provide a decreased risk of peri-implantitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Biomedical Materials and Their Applications)
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18 pages, 7401 KiB  
Article
Hydrogels and Carbon Nanotubes: Composite Electrode Materials for Long-Term Electrocardiography Monitoring
by Leszek Kolodziej, Olga Iwasińska-Kowalska, Grzegorz Wróblewski, Tomasz Giżewski, Małgorzata Jakubowska and Agnieszka Lekawa-Raus
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(5), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15050113 - 23 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2128
Abstract
This paper presents methods for developing high-performance interface electrode materials designed to enhance signal collection efficacy during long-term (over 24 h) electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring. The electrode materials are fabricated by integrating commercial ECG liquid hydrogels with carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are widely utilized [...] Read more.
This paper presents methods for developing high-performance interface electrode materials designed to enhance signal collection efficacy during long-term (over 24 h) electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring. The electrode materials are fabricated by integrating commercial ECG liquid hydrogels with carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are widely utilized in dry-electrode technologies and extensively discussed in the current scientific literature. The composite materials are either prepared by dispersing CNTs within the commercial liquid hydrogel matrix or by encasing the hydrogels in macroscopic CNT films. Both approaches ensure the optimal wetting of the epidermis via the hydrogels, while the CNTs reduce material impedance and stabilize the drying process. The resulting electrode materials maintain their softness, allowing for micro-conformal skin attachment, and are biocompatible. Empirical testing confirms that the ECG electrodes employing these hybrid hydrogels adhere to relevant standards for durations exceeding 24 h. These innovative hybrid solutions merge the benefits of both wet and dry ECG electrode technologies, potentially facilitating the extended monitoring of ECG signals and thus advancing the diagnosis and treatment of various cardiac conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials and Devices for Healthcare Applications)
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12 pages, 978 KiB  
Article
Effects of Erythropoietin-Promoted Fracture Healing on Bone Turnover Markers in Cats
by Radina Vasileva, Tsvetan Chaprazov and Aneliya Milanova
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040106 - 17 Apr 2024
Viewed by 2114
Abstract
In orthopaedics, erythropoietin (EPO) is applied in the preoperative management of anaemic patients, but also as a stimulating factor to assist bone regeneration due to its angiogenic and osteoinductive potential. Since orthopaedists mainly rely on their clinical experience to assess bone healing, additional [...] Read more.
In orthopaedics, erythropoietin (EPO) is applied in the preoperative management of anaemic patients, but also as a stimulating factor to assist bone regeneration due to its angiogenic and osteoinductive potential. Since orthopaedists mainly rely on their clinical experience to assess bone healing, additional and more objective methods such as studying the dynamics of bone markers are needed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the plasma activity of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), the N-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (PINP), the C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), and deoxypyridinoline (DPD) during the first 2 months of healing of comminuted fractures in cats, either non-stimulated or locally stimulated with recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO). The study included twelve cats of mixed breeds, aged 7.2 ± 4 months, weighing 2.11 ± 1.1 kg, with comminuted diaphyseal fractures of the femur. Surgical treatment with plate osteosynthesis was performed in all animals. The cats were randomly divided into two groups—a control (n = 6) and an EPO group (n = 6). The locally applied EPO leads to the increased activity of bone formation markers (BALP and PINP) during the second week after the osteosynthesis, preceding the peaks in the control group by two weeks. The studied bone resorption markers (DPD, CTX) varied insignificantly during the studied period. In conclusion, erythropoietin could serve as a promoter of bone healing in comminuted fractures in cats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bone Substitute Biomaterials)
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13 pages, 14329 KiB  
Article
Strontium-Doped Bioglass-Laden Gelatin Methacryloyl Hydrogels for Vital Pulp Therapy
by Sepideh Aminmansour, Ana Beatriz Gomes de Carvalho, Lais Medeiros Cardoso, Caroline Anselmi, Maedeh Rahimnejad, Renan Dal-Fabbro, Erika Benavides, Tiago Moreira Bastos Campos, Alexandre Luiz Souto Borges and Marco C. Bottino
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040105 - 17 Apr 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2268
Abstract
This study aimed to develop gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-injectable hydrogels incorporated with 58S bioactive glass/BG-doped with strontium for vital pulp therapy applications. GelMA hydrogels containing 0% (control), 5%, 10%, and 20% BG (w/v) were prepared. Their morphological and chemical properties [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-injectable hydrogels incorporated with 58S bioactive glass/BG-doped with strontium for vital pulp therapy applications. GelMA hydrogels containing 0% (control), 5%, 10%, and 20% BG (w/v) were prepared. Their morphological and chemical properties were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy/SEM, energy dispersive spectroscopy/EDS, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy/FTIR (n = 3). Their swelling capacity and degradation ratio were also measured (n = 4). Cell viability (n = 8), mineralized matrix formation, cell adhesion, and spreading (n = 6) on DPSCs were evaluated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA/post hoc tests (α = 5%). SEM and EDS characterization confirmed the incorporation of BG particles into the hydrogel matrix, showing GelMA’s (C, O) and BG’s (Si, Cl, Na, Sr) chemical elements. FTIR revealed the main chemical groups of GelMA and BG, as ~1000 cm−1 corresponds to Si-O and ~1440 cm−1 to C-H. All the formulations were degraded by day 12, with a lower degradation ratio observed for GelMA+BG20%. Increasing the concentration of BG resulted in a lower mass swelling ratio. Biologically, all the groups were compatible with cells (p > 0.6196), and cell adhesion increased over time, irrespective of BG concentration, indicating great biocompatibility. GelMA+BG5% demonstrated a higher deposition of mineral nodules over 21 days (p < 0.0001), evidencing the osteogenic potential of hydrogels. GelMA hydrogels incorporated with BG present great cytocompatibility, support cell adhesion, and have a clinically relevant degradation profile and suitable mineralization potential, supporting their therapeutic potential as promising biomaterials for pulp capping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)
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15 pages, 4307 KiB  
Article
Functionalization of PCL-Based Fiber Scaffolds with Different Sources of Calcium and Phosphate and Odontogenic Potential on Human Dental Pulp Cells
by Caroline Anselmi, Igor Paulino Mendes Soares, Rafaella Lara Maia Mota, Maria Luísa Leite, Rafael Antonio de Oliveira Ribeiro, Lídia de Oliveira Fernandes, Marco C. Bottino, Carlos Alberto de Souza Costa and Josimeri Hebling
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040097 - 10 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1821
Abstract
This study investigated the incorporation of sources of calcium, phosphate, or both into electrospun scaffolds and evaluated their bioactivity on human dental pulp cells (HDPCs). Additionally, scaffolds incorporated with calcium hydroxide (CH) were characterized for degradation, calcium release, and odontogenic differentiation by HDPCs. [...] Read more.
This study investigated the incorporation of sources of calcium, phosphate, or both into electrospun scaffolds and evaluated their bioactivity on human dental pulp cells (HDPCs). Additionally, scaffolds incorporated with calcium hydroxide (CH) were characterized for degradation, calcium release, and odontogenic differentiation by HDPCs. Polycaprolactone (PCL) was electrospun with or without 0.5% w/v of calcium hydroxide (PCL + CH), nano-hydroxyapatite (PCL + nHA), or β-glycerophosphate (PCL + βGP). SEM/EDS analysis confirmed fibrillar morphology and particle incorporation. HDPCs were cultured on the scaffolds to assess cell viability, adhesion, spreading, and mineralized matrix formation. PCL + CH was also evaluated for gene expression of odontogenic markers (RT-qPCR). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Student’s t-test (α = 5%). Added CH increased fiber diameter and interfibrillar spacing, whereas βGP decreased both. PCL + CH and PCL + nHA improved HDPC viability, adhesion, and proliferation. Mineralization was increased eightfold with PCL + CH. Scaffolds containing CH gradually degraded over six months, with calcium release within the first 140 days. CH incorporation upregulated DSPP and DMP1 expression after 7 and 14 days. In conclusion, CH- and nHA-laden PCL fiber scaffolds were cytocompatible and promoted HDPC adhesion, proliferation, and mineralized matrix deposition. PCL + CH scaffolds exhibit a slow degradation profile, providing sustained calcium release and stimulating HDPCs to upregulate odontogenesis marker genes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials for Dental Pulp Tissue)
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17 pages, 3630 KiB  
Article
A New Hyaluronic Emulgel of Hesperetin for Topical Application—An In Vitro Evaluation
by Raquel Taléns-Visconti, Yousra Belarbi, Octavio Díez-Sales, Jesus Vicente de Julián-Ortiz, Ofelia Vila-Busó and Amparo Nácher
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040089 - 1 Apr 2024
Viewed by 2117
Abstract
The present study aimed to formulate and characterize a hesperetin formulation to achieve adequate deposition and retention of hesperetin in the epidermis as a target for some cosmetic/dermatological actions. To derive the final emulgel, various formulations incorporating different proportions of Polysorbate 80 and [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to formulate and characterize a hesperetin formulation to achieve adequate deposition and retention of hesperetin in the epidermis as a target for some cosmetic/dermatological actions. To derive the final emulgel, various formulations incorporating different proportions of Polysorbate 80 and hyaluronic acid underwent testing through a Box–Behnken experimental design. Nine formulations were created until the targeted emulgel properties were achieved. This systematic approach, following the principles of a design of experiment (DoE) methodology, adheres to a quality-by-design (QbD) paradigm, ensuring a robust and purposeful formulation and highlighting the commitment to a quality-driven design approach. The emulsions were developed using the phase inversion method, optimizing the emulgel with the incorporation of hyaluronic acid. Physically stable optimized emulgels were evaluated for their globule size, surface charge, viscosity, pH, electrical conductivity, and hesperetin content. These assays, along with the temperature swing test, were used to select the optimal formulation. It was characterized by a droplet size, d[4,3], of 4.02 μm, a Z-potential of −27.8 mV, an O/W sign, a pH of 5.2, and a creamy texture and proved to be stable for at least 2 months at room temperature. Additionally, in vitro release kinetics from the selected emulgel exhibited a sustained release profile of hesperetin. Skin assays revealed adequate retention of hesperetin in the human epidermis with minimum permeation. Altogether, these results corroborate the promising future of the proposed emulgel in cosmetic or dermatological use on healthy or diseased skin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Manufacturing and Surface Technology)
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14 pages, 6661 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Alginate/Collagen Bioink for Bioprinting Respiratory Tissue Models
by Amanda Zimmerling, Yan Zhou and Xiongbiao Chen
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040090 - 1 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2996
Abstract
Synthesis of bioinks for bioprinting of respiratory tissue requires considerations related to immunogenicity, mechanical properties, printability, and cellular compatibility. Biomaterials can be tailored to provide the appropriate combination of these properties through the synergy of materials with individual pros and cons. Sodium alginate, [...] Read more.
Synthesis of bioinks for bioprinting of respiratory tissue requires considerations related to immunogenicity, mechanical properties, printability, and cellular compatibility. Biomaterials can be tailored to provide the appropriate combination of these properties through the synergy of materials with individual pros and cons. Sodium alginate, a water-soluble polymer derived from seaweed, is a cheap yet printable biomaterial with good structural properties; however, it lacks physiological relevance and cell binding sites. Collagen, a common component in the extra cellular matrix of many tissues, is expensive and lacks printability; however, it is highly biocompatible and exhibits sites for cellular binding. This paper presents our study on the synthesis of bioinks from alginate and collagen for use in bioprinting respiratory tissue models. Bioinks were synthesized from 40 mg/mL (4%) alginate and 3 mg/mL (0.3%) collagen in varying ratios (1:0, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1); then examined in terms of rheological properties, printability, compressive, and tensile properties and cellular compatibility. The results illustrate that the ratio of alginate to collagen has a profound impact on bioink performance and that, among the examined ratios, the 3:1 ratio is the most appropriate for use in bioprinting respiratory tissue scaffolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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17 pages, 1389 KiB  
Article
Influence of Magnesium Degradation on Schwannoma Cell Responses to Nerve Injury Using an In Vitro Injury Model
by Krathika Bhat, Lisa Hanke, Heike Helmholz, Eckhard Quandt, Sarah Pixley and Regine Willumeit-Römer
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040088 - 31 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2286
Abstract
Nerve guidance conduits for peripheral nerve injuries can be improved using bioactive materials such as magnesium (Mg) and its alloys, which could provide both structural and trophic support. Therefore, we investigated whether exposure to Mg and Mg-1.6wt%Li thin films (Mg/Mg-1.6Li) would alter acute [...] Read more.
Nerve guidance conduits for peripheral nerve injuries can be improved using bioactive materials such as magnesium (Mg) and its alloys, which could provide both structural and trophic support. Therefore, we investigated whether exposure to Mg and Mg-1.6wt%Li thin films (Mg/Mg-1.6Li) would alter acute Schwann cell responses to injury. Using the RT4-D6P2T Schwannoma cell line (SCs), we tested extracts from freeze-killed cells (FKC) and nerves (FKN) as in vitro injury stimulants. Both FKC and FKN induced SC release of the macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), a marker of the repair SC phenotype after injury. Next, FKC-stimulated cells exposed to Mg/Mg-1.6Li reduced MCP-1 release by 30%, suggesting that these materials could have anti-inflammatory effects. Exposing FKC-treated cells to Mg/Mg-1.6Li reduced the gene expression of the nerve growth factor (NGF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and myelin protein zero (MPZ), but not the p75 neurotrophin receptor. In the absence of FKC, Mg/Mg-1.6Li treatment increased the expression of NGF, p75, and MPZ, which can be beneficial to nerve regeneration. Thus, the presence of Mg can differentially alter SCs, depending on the microenvironment. These results demonstrate the applicability of this in vitro nerve injury model, and that Mg has wide-ranging effects on the repair SC phenotype. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)
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18 pages, 5077 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial and Antibiofouling Activities of Carbon Polymerized Dots/Polyurethane and C60/Polyurethane Composite Films
by Zoran M. Marković, Milica D. Budimir Filimonović, Dušan D. Milivojević, Janez Kovač and Biljana M. Todorović Marković
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030073 - 17 Mar 2024
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2536
Abstract
The cost of treatment of antibiotic-resistant pathogens is on the level of tens of billions of dollars at the moment. It is of special interest to reduce or solve this problem using antimicrobial coatings, especially in hospitals or other healthcare facilities. The bacteria [...] Read more.
The cost of treatment of antibiotic-resistant pathogens is on the level of tens of billions of dollars at the moment. It is of special interest to reduce or solve this problem using antimicrobial coatings, especially in hospitals or other healthcare facilities. The bacteria can transfer from medical staff or contaminated surfaces to patients. In this paper, we focused our attention on the antibacterial and antibiofouling activities of two types of photodynamic polyurethane composite films doped with carbon polymerized dots (CPDs) and fullerene C60. Detailed atomic force, electrostatic force and viscoelastic microscopy revealed topology, nanoelectrical and nanomechanical properties of used fillers and composites. A relationship between the electronic structure of the nanocarbon fillers and the antibacterial and antibiofouling activities of the composites was established. Thorough spectroscopic analysis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was conducted for both composite films, and it was found that both of them were potent antibacterial agents against nosocomial bacteria (Klebsiela pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonela enterica, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus epidermis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Antibiofouling testing of composite films indicated that the CPDs/PU composite films eradicated almost completely the biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus and about 50% of Escherichia coli biofilms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer, Microbes and Viruses)
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15 pages, 2586 KiB  
Article
Reduction in Pathogenic Biofilms by the Photoactive Composite of Bacterial Cellulose and Nanochitosan Dots under Blue and Green Light
by Danica Z. Zmejkoski, Nemanja M. Zdravković, Milica D. Budimir Filimonović, Vladimir B. Pavlović, Svetlana V. Butulija, Dušan D. Milivojević, Zoran M. Marković and Biljana M. Todorović Marković
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030072 - 14 Mar 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2473
Abstract
In this study, nanochitosan dots (ChiDs) were synthesized using gamma rays and encapsulated in bacterial cellulose (BC) polymer matrix for antibiofilm potential in photodynamic therapy. The composites were analyzed for structural changes using SEM, AFM, FTIR, XRD, EPR, and porosity measurements. Additionally, ChiD [...] Read more.
In this study, nanochitosan dots (ChiDs) were synthesized using gamma rays and encapsulated in bacterial cellulose (BC) polymer matrix for antibiofilm potential in photodynamic therapy. The composites were analyzed for structural changes using SEM, AFM, FTIR, XRD, EPR, and porosity measurements. Additionally, ChiD release was assessed. The results showed that the chemical composition remained unaltered, but ChiD agglomerates embedded in BC changed shape (1.5–2.5 µm). Bacterial cellulose fibers became deformed and interconnected, with increased surface roughness and porosity and decreased crystallinity. No singlet oxygen formation was observed, and the total amount of released ChiD was up to 16.10%. Antibiofilm activity was higher under green light, with reductions ranging from 48 to 57% under blue light and 78 to 85% under green light. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the most sensitive strain. The new photoactive composite hydrogels show promising potential for combating biofilm-related infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Cancer Therapies)
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18 pages, 3793 KiB  
Article
Formulative Study and Characterization of Novel Biomaterials Based on Chitosan/Hydrolyzed Collagen Films
by Tomás Martínez Rodríguez, Caterina Valentino, Francisco Ramón Rodríguez Pozo, Pablo Hernández Benavides, Francisco Arrebola Vargas, José Manuel Paredes, Claro Ignacio Sainz-Díaz, Guillermo R. Iglesias, Silvia Rossi, Giuseppina Sandri, María del Mar Medina Pérez and Carola Aguzzi
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030069 - 11 Mar 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2667
Abstract
To date, the need for biomaterials capable of improving the treatment of chronic skin wounds remains a clinical challenge. The aim of the present work is to formulate and characterize chitosan (Cs)/hydrolyzed collagen (HC) films as potential biomaterials with improved mechanical and hydration [...] Read more.
To date, the need for biomaterials capable of improving the treatment of chronic skin wounds remains a clinical challenge. The aim of the present work is to formulate and characterize chitosan (Cs)/hydrolyzed collagen (HC) films as potential biomaterials with improved mechanical and hydration performances compared to single component formulations. Films were made by the solvent casting method, with or without glycerin and/or PEG1500 as plasticizers, resulting in a total of eight formulations. All films were characterized by their physico-chemical characteristics and their mechanical and hydration features. A full factorial design was also used to statistically assess the effect of HC concentration, type and concentration of plasticizers and their possible interactions on mechanical and swelling behaviors. Solid state characterization confirmed the hybrid nature of the films, with suggested electrostatic interactions between Cs and HC. Mechanical and swelling properties, along with the analysis of the experimental design, allowed the identification of formulations containing high HC concentration (2% w/v) and glycerin or glycerin/PEG1500 as more suitable candidates for skin wound treatment. Finally, viability assay of immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT) showed no statistical differences in cell survival compared to the complete culture medium, suggesting their potential as a promising tool for biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Product-Based Biomaterials for Advanced Wound Dressings)
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14 pages, 4002 KiB  
Article
Water-Soluble Quaternary and Protonable Basic Chitotriazolans: Synthesis by Click Chemistry Conversion of Chitosan Azides and Investigation of Antibacterial Activity
by Sankar Rathinam, Romano Magdadaro, Martha Á. Hjálmarsdóttir and Már Másson
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030063 - 5 Mar 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2189
Abstract
The azide transfer reaction and copper(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) can be used to convert the amino groups in chitosan to triazole 1,2,3-moieties. The resulting polymer has been named chitotriazolan. This synthesis was performed with six different quaternary ammonium alkynes and three amine alkynes [...] Read more.
The azide transfer reaction and copper(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) can be used to convert the amino groups in chitosan to triazole 1,2,3-moieties. The resulting polymer has been named chitotriazolan. This synthesis was performed with six different quaternary ammonium alkynes and three amine alkynes to obtain a series of nine water-soluble chitotriazolan derivatives. The structure and complete conversion of the azide were confirmed by FT-IR and proton NMR spectroscopy. The derivatives were investigated for antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. faecalis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. The activity of the quaternized chitotriazolan derivatives varied depending on the structure of the quaternary moiety and the species of bacteria. The basic protonable derivatives were less active or inactive against the bacteria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Chitin and Chitosan-II)
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11 pages, 2697 KiB  
Article
Injectable Micro-Hydrogel for DNA Delivery: A Promising Therapeutic Platform
by Sunghyun Moon and Jong Bum Lee
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030059 - 1 Mar 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2481
Abstract
Utilizing the immune system as a strategy for disease prevention and treatment is promising, especially with dendritic cells (DCs) playing a central role in adaptive immune responses. The unique properties of DCs drive interest in developing materials for cell-based therapy and immune modulation. [...] Read more.
Utilizing the immune system as a strategy for disease prevention and treatment is promising, especially with dendritic cells (DCs) playing a central role in adaptive immune responses. The unique properties of DCs drive interest in developing materials for cell-based therapy and immune modulation. Injectable systems require syringe-compatible scaffolds, while hydrogels, like alginate, known for their programmability and biocompatibility, offer a versatile platform for immune medicine enhancement through easy preparation and room-temperature cross-linking. In this study, we synthesized alginate balls loaded with DCs or cytosine–phosphorothioate–guanine deoxyribonucleotide (CpG DNA) microparticles, aiming for long-term immune cell culture with potential immune stimulation effects. Encapsulated DCs exhibited proliferation within the alginate balls for up to 7 days, and CpG MPs were uniformly dispersed, which can facilitate uptake by DCs. This was supported by the result that DCs effectively phagocytosed CpG microparticles in a 2D environment. After the uptake of CpG MPs, the alginate balls with CpG-MP-uptaken DCs were synthesized successfully. The injectable properties of the alginate balls were easily modulated by adjusting the syringe needle gauges. This innovative strategy holds substantial promise for advancing medical treatments, offering effective and comfortable solutions for controlled immune modulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Injectable and Biodegradable Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications)
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12 pages, 2742 KiB  
Article
Polycarbonate-Based Copolymer Micelles as Biodegradable Carriers of Anticancer Podophyllotoxin or Juniper Extracts
by Radostina G. Kalinova, Ivaylo V. Dimitrov, Diana I. Ivanova, Yana E. Ilieva, Alexander N. Tashev, Maya M. Zaharieva, George Angelov and Hristo M. Najdenski
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15030053 - 21 Feb 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2661
Abstract
Podophyllotoxin (PPT) is used in the industrial production of efficient anticancer, antiviral and other drugs. Sinopodophyllum hexandrum or Podophyllum peltatum are natural sources of PPT, but at present they are considered as endangered species. Their PPT content is variable, depending on the growing [...] Read more.
Podophyllotoxin (PPT) is used in the industrial production of efficient anticancer, antiviral and other drugs. Sinopodophyllum hexandrum or Podophyllum peltatum are natural sources of PPT, but at present they are considered as endangered species. Their PPT content is variable, depending on the growing conditions. Searching for new sources of PPT, some representatives of the genus Juniperus were found to exhibit efficient PPT biosynthesis. However, PPT is highly toxic and poorly soluble in water compound, which limits its clinical applications. In this connection, amphiphilic polymer micelles are considered to be suitable PPT carriers, aimed at increase in water solubility and decrease in toxicity. The present research deals with the evaluation of MPEG–polycarbonate block copolymer micelles loaded with PPT or juniper extracts. The active component-loaded polymer nanocarriers were characterized by dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering, as well as by transmission electron microscopy. The active component loading efficiency and loading capacity were also determined. Highly efficient antiproliferative activity of the loaded micelles was determined in a panel of cancer cell lines. The obtained amphiphilic nanocarriers, loaded with PPT-containing bioactive components, have application in future in vivo preclinical trials of their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as potential therapeutical agents in the prospective nanomedicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthetic Polymers for the Delivery of Vaccines and Therapeutics)
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24 pages, 19800 KiB  
Article
Advanced Ti–Nb–Ta Alloys for Bone Implants with Improved Functionality
by Jan-Oliver Sass, Marie-Luise Sellin, Elisa Kauertz, Jan Johannsen, Markus Weinmann, Melanie Stenzel, Marcus Frank, Danny Vogel, Rainer Bader and Anika Jonitz-Heincke
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020046 - 17 Feb 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3443
Abstract
The additive manufacturing of titanium–niobium–tantalum alloys with nominal chemical compositions Ti–xNb–6Ta (x = 20, 27, 35) by means of laser beam powder bed fusion is reported, and their potential as implant materials is elaborated by mechanical and biological characterization. The properties of dense [...] Read more.
The additive manufacturing of titanium–niobium–tantalum alloys with nominal chemical compositions Ti–xNb–6Ta (x = 20, 27, 35) by means of laser beam powder bed fusion is reported, and their potential as implant materials is elaborated by mechanical and biological characterization. The properties of dense specimens manufactured in different build orientations and of open porous Ti–20Nb–6Ta specimens are evaluated. Compression tests indicate that strength and elasticity are influenced by the chemical composition and build orientation. The minimum elasticity is always observed in the 90° orientation. It is lowest for Ti–20Nb–6Ta (43.2 ± 2.7 GPa) and can be further reduced to 8.1 ± 1.0 GPa for open porous specimens (p < 0.001). Furthermore, human osteoblasts are cultivated for 7 and 14 days on as-printed specimens and their biological response is compared to that of Ti–6Al–4V. Build orientation and cultivation time significantly affect the gene expression profile of osteogenic differentiation markers. Incomplete cell spreading is observed in specimens manufactured in 0° build orientation, whereas widely stretched cells are observed in 90° build orientation, i.e., parallel to the build direction. Compared to Ti–6Al–4V, Ti–Nb–Ta specimens promote improved osteogenesis and reduce the induction of inflammation. Accordingly, Ti–xNb–6Ta alloys have favorable mechanical and biological properties with great potential for application in orthopedic implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metallic Biomaterials for Medical Applications)
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14 pages, 2120 KiB  
Article
Surface Modification Strategies for Chrysin-Loaded Iron Oxide Nanoparticles to Boost Their Anti-Tumor Efficacy in Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
by Aynura Karimova, Sabina Hajizada, Habiba Shirinova, Sevinj Nuriyeva, Lala Gahramanli, Mohammed M. Yusuf, Stefano Bellucci, Christoph Reissfelder and Vugar Yagublu
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020043 - 13 Feb 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3897
Abstract
Enhancing nanoparticles’ anti-cancer capabilities as drug carriers requires the careful adjustment of formulation parameters, including loading efficiency, drug/carrier ratio, and synthesis method. Small adjustments to these parameters can significantly influence the drug-loading efficiency of nanoparticles. Our study explored how chitosan and polyethylene glycol [...] Read more.
Enhancing nanoparticles’ anti-cancer capabilities as drug carriers requires the careful adjustment of formulation parameters, including loading efficiency, drug/carrier ratio, and synthesis method. Small adjustments to these parameters can significantly influence the drug-loading efficiency of nanoparticles. Our study explored how chitosan and polyethylene glycol (PEG) coatings affect the structural properties, drug-loading efficiency, and anti-cancer efficacy of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs). The loading efficiency of the NPs was determined using FTIR spectrometry and XRD. The quantity of chrysin incorporated into the coated NPs was examined using UV–Vis spectrometry. The effect of the NPs on cell viability and apoptosis was determined by employing the HCT 116 human colon carcinoma cell line. We showed that a two-fold increase in drug concentration did not impact the loading efficiency of Fe3O4 NPs coated with PEG. However, there was a 33 Å difference in the crystallite sizes obtained from chitosan-coated Fe3O4 NPs and drug concentrations of 1:0.5 and 1:2, resulting in decreased system stability. In conclusion, PEG coating exhibited a higher loading efficiency of Fe3O4 NPs compared to chitosan, resulting in enhanced anti-tumor effects. Furthermore, variations in the loaded amount of chrysin did not impact the crystallinity of PEG-coated NPs, emphasizing the stability and regularity of the system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoparticles and Nanocompounds for Cancer Therapy)
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17 pages, 10665 KiB  
Article
Femtosecond Laser Irradiation to Zirconia Prior to Calcium Phosphate Coating Enhances Osteointegration of Zirconia in Rabbits
by Hirotaka Mutsuzaki, Hidehiko Yashiro, Masayuki Kakehata, Ayako Oyane and Atsuo Ito
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020042 - 11 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5351
Abstract
Calcium phosphate (CaP) coating of zirconia and zirconia-based implants is challenging, due to their chemical instability and susceptibility to thermal and mechanical impacts. A 3 mol% yttrium-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal was subjected to femtosecond laser (FsL) irradiation to form micro- and submicron surface [...] Read more.
Calcium phosphate (CaP) coating of zirconia and zirconia-based implants is challenging, due to their chemical instability and susceptibility to thermal and mechanical impacts. A 3 mol% yttrium-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal was subjected to femtosecond laser (FsL) irradiation to form micro- and submicron surface architectures, prior to CaP coating using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and low-temperature solution processing. Untreated zirconia, CaP-coated zirconia, and FsL-irradiated and CaP-coated zirconia were implanted in proximal tibial metaphyses of male Japanese white rabbits for four weeks. Radiographical analysis, push-out test, alizarin red staining, and histomorphometric analysis demonstrated a much improved bone-bonding ability of FsL-irradiated and CaP-coated zirconia over CaP-coated zirconia without FsL irradiation and untreated zirconia. The failure strength of the FsL-irradiated and CaP-coated zirconia in the push−out test was 6.2–13.1-times higher than that of the CaP-coated zirconia without FsL irradiation and untreated zirconia. Moreover, the adhesion strength between the bone and FsL-irradiated and CaP-coated zirconia was as high as that inducing host bone fracture in the push-out tests. The increased bone-bonding ability was attributed to the micro-/submicron surface architectures that enhanced osteoblastic differentiation and mechanical interlocking, leading to improved osteointegration. FsL irradiation followed by CaP coating could be useful for improving the osteointegration of cement-less zirconia-based joints and zirconia dental implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Scaffolds and Implants for Bone Regeneration)
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11 pages, 1386 KiB  
Article
Superfluorinated, Highly Water-Soluble Polyphosphazenes as Potential 19F Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Contrast Agents
by Paul Strasser, Verena Schinegger, Joachim Friske, Oliver Brüggemann, Thomas H. Helbich, Ian Teasdale and Irena Pashkunova-Martic
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020040 - 10 Feb 2024
Viewed by 2439
Abstract
“Hot spot” 19F magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has garnered significant attention recently for its ability to image various disease markers quantitatively. Unlike conventional gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents, which rely on proton signal modulation, 19F-MRI’s direct detection has a unique advantage in [...] Read more.
“Hot spot” 19F magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has garnered significant attention recently for its ability to image various disease markers quantitatively. Unlike conventional gadolinium-based MRI contrast agents, which rely on proton signal modulation, 19F-MRI’s direct detection has a unique advantage in vivo, as the human body exhibits a negligible background 19F-signal. However, existing perfluorocarbon (PFC) or PFC-based contrast materials suffer from several limitations, including low longitudinal relaxation rates and relatively low imaging efficiency. Hence, we designed a macromolecular contrast agent featuring a high number of magnetically equivalent 19F-nuclei in a single macromolecule, adequate fluorine nucleus mobility, and excellent water solubility. This design utilizes superfluorinated polyphosphazene (PPz) polymers as the 19F-source; these are modified with sodium mercaptoethanesulfonate (MESNa) to achieve water solubility exceeding 360 mg/mL, which is a similar solubility to that of sodium chloride. We observed substantial signal enhancement in MRI with these novel macromolecular carriers compared to non-enhanced surroundings and aqueous trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) used as a positive control. In conclusion, these novel water-soluble macromolecular carriers represent a promising platform for future MRI contrast agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthetic Polymers for the Delivery of Vaccines and Therapeutics)
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23 pages, 26500 KiB  
Article
Fretting and Fretting Corrosion Behavior of Additively Manufactured Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-Nb-Zr Alloys in Air and Physiological Solutions
by Annsley O. Mace, Michael A. Kurtz and Jeremy L. Gilbert
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020038 - 5 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2868
Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) of orthopedic implants has increased in recent years, providing benefits to surgeons, patients, and implant companies. Both traditional and new titanium alloys are under consideration for AM-manufactured implants. However, concerns remain about their wear and corrosion (tribocorrosion) performance. In this [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing (AM) of orthopedic implants has increased in recent years, providing benefits to surgeons, patients, and implant companies. Both traditional and new titanium alloys are under consideration for AM-manufactured implants. However, concerns remain about their wear and corrosion (tribocorrosion) performance. In this study, the effects of fretting corrosion were investigated on AM Ti-29Nb-21Zr (pre-alloyed and admixed) and AM Ti-6Al-4V with 1% nano yttria-stabilized zirconia (nYSZ). Low cycle (100 cycles, 3 Hz, 100 mN) fretting and fretting corrosion (potentiostatic, 0 V vs. Ag/AgCl) methods were used to compare these AM alloys to traditionally manufactured AM Ti-6Al-4V. Alloy and admixture surfaces were subjected to (1) fretting in the air (i.e., small-scale reciprocal sliding) and (2) fretting corrosion in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) using a single diamond asperity (17 µm radius). Wear track depth measurements, fretting currents and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) analysis of oxide debris revealed that pre-alloyed AM Ti-29Nb-21Zr generally had greater wear depths after 100 cycles (4.67 +/− 0.55 µm dry and 5.78 +/− 0.83 µm in solution) and higher fretting currents (0.58 +/− 0.07 µA). A correlation (R2 = 0.67) was found between wear depth and the average fretting currents with different alloys located in different regions of the relationship. No statistically significant differences were observed in wear depth between in-air and in-PBS tests. However, significantly higher amounts of oxygen (measured by oxygen weight % by EDS analysis of the debris) were embedded within the wear track for tests performed in PBS compared to air for all samples except the ad-mixed Ti-29Nb-21Zr (p = 0.21). For traditional and AM Ti-6Al-4V, the wear track depths (dry fretting: 2.90 +/− 0.32 µm vs. 2.51 +/− 0.51 μm, respectively; fretting corrosion: 2.09 +/− 0.59 μm vs. 1.16 +/− 0.79 μm, respectively) and fretting current measurements (0.37 +/− 0.05 μA vs. 0.34 +/− 0.05 μA, respectively) showed no significant differences. The dominant wear deformation process was plastic deformation followed by cyclic extrusion of plate-like wear debris at the end of the stroke, resulting in ribbon-like extruded material for all alloys. While previous work documented improved corrosion resistance of Ti-29Nb-21Zr in simulated inflammatory solutions over Ti-6Al-4V, this work does not show similar improvements in the relative fretting corrosion resistance of these alloys compared to Ti-6Al-4V. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Titanium-Based Implants: Advances in Materials and Applications)
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19 pages, 7431 KiB  
Article
Multifunctional ZnO@DOX/ICG-LMHP Nanoparticles for Synergistic Multimodal Antitumor Activity
by Zhuoyue Li, Jingru Wang, Junwei Liu, Jianming Yu, Jingwen Wang, Hui Wang, Qingchao Wei, Man Liu, Meiqi Xu, Zhenhan Feng, Ting Zhong and Xuan Zhang
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020035 - 30 Jan 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3093
Abstract
Multifunctional nanoparticles are of significant importance for synergistic multimodal antitumor activity. Herein, zinc oxide (ZnO) was used as pH-sensitive nanoparticles for loading the chemotherapy agent doxorubicin (DOX) and the photosensitizer agent indocyanine green (ICG), and biocompatible low-molecular-weight heparin (LMHP) was used as the [...] Read more.
Multifunctional nanoparticles are of significant importance for synergistic multimodal antitumor activity. Herein, zinc oxide (ZnO) was used as pH-sensitive nanoparticles for loading the chemotherapy agent doxorubicin (DOX) and the photosensitizer agent indocyanine green (ICG), and biocompatible low-molecular-weight heparin (LMHP) was used as the gatekeepers for synergistic photothermal therapy/photodynamic therapy/chemotherapy/immunotherapy. ZnO was decomposed into cytotoxic Zn2+ ions, leading to a tumor-specific release of ICG and DOX. ZnO simultaneously produced oxygen (O2) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) for photodynamic therapy (PDT). The released ICG under laser irradiation produced ROS for PDT and raised the tumor temperature for photothermal therapy (PTT). The released DOX directly caused tumor cell death for chemotherapy. Both DOX and ICG also induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) for immunotherapy. The in vivo and in vitro results presented a superior inhibition of tumor progression, metastasis and recurrence. Therefore, this study could provide an efficient approach for designing multifunctional nanoparticles for synergistic multimodal antitumor therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials/Biomaterials for Healthcare Applications)
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11 pages, 2244 KiB  
Article
Effect of Silicon Carbide Fiber Length on the Flexural Strength and Flexural Modulus of Short Silicon Carbide Fiber-Reinforced Resin
by Norimasa Taka, Yujin Aoyagi, Keito Miida, Mitsugu Kanatani and Hiroshi Ogawa
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020030 - 26 Jan 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2146
Abstract
Silicon carbide fibers have superior flexural properties and chemical stability compared to glass fibers. We investigated the flexural strength and modulus of an experimental, short silicon carbide fiber-reinforced resin. Short silicon carbide fibers with lengths of ~0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mm were [...] Read more.
Silicon carbide fibers have superior flexural properties and chemical stability compared to glass fibers. We investigated the flexural strength and modulus of an experimental, short silicon carbide fiber-reinforced resin. Short silicon carbide fibers with lengths of ~0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mm were prepared and silanized. Urethane dimethacrylate and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate were mixed at a 70:30 wt% ratio and used as the matrix resins. Each length of short silicon carbide fibers and the matrix resin were combined using a mixing machine and then used for specimen preparation. The three-point bending test conditions were in accordance with ISO 4049:2009. The fracture surfaces of the specimens after the three-point bending test were observed using secondary electron images. The data were statistically analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s HSD test (α = 0.05). The flexural strength and modulus of the specimens containing 2 mm or 3 mm silicon carbide fibers were significantly higher than the other specimens. The river pattern was observed more clearly in specimens containing shorter silicon carbide fibers, although this pattern was observed in all specimens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)
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15 pages, 6823 KiB  
Article
Surface-Mediated Modulation of Different Biological Responses on Anatase-Coated Titanium
by Leila Mohammadnejad, Antonia Theurer, Julia Alber, Barbara Illing, Evi Kimmerle-Mueller, Jacob Schultheiss, Stefanie Krajewski and Frank Rupp
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020029 - 25 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2430
Abstract
Various surface modification strategies are being developed to endow dental titanium implant surfaces with micro- and nano-structures to improve their biocompatibility, and first of all their osseointegration. These modifications have the potential to address clinical concerns by stimulating different biological processes. This study [...] Read more.
Various surface modification strategies are being developed to endow dental titanium implant surfaces with micro- and nano-structures to improve their biocompatibility, and first of all their osseointegration. These modifications have the potential to address clinical concerns by stimulating different biological processes. This study aims to evaluate the biological responses of ananatase-modified blasted/etched titanium (SLA-anatase) surfaces compared to blasted/acid etched (SLA) and machined titanium surfaces. Using unipolar pulsed direct current (DC) sputtering, a nanocrystalline anatase layer was fabricated. In vitro experiments have shown that SLA-anatase discs can effectively promote osteoblast adhesion and proliferation, which are regarded as important features of a successful dental implant with bone contact. Furthermore, anatase surface modification has been shown to partially enhance osteoblast mineralization in vitro, while not significantly affecting bacterial colonization. Consequently, the recently created anatase coating holds significant potential as a promising candidate for future advancements in dental implant surface modification for improving the initial stages of osseointegration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)
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12 pages, 3455 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Rate of ZnAg3 as a Novel Bioabsorbable Material for Osteosynthesis
by Maria Roesner, Sergej Zankovic, Adalbert Kovacs, Moritz Benner, Roland Barkhoff and Michael Seidenstuecker
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020028 - 25 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2510
Abstract
Osteosynthesis in fracture treatment typically uses hardware that remains in the patient’s body, which brings a permanent risk of negative side effects such as foreign body reactions or chronic inflammation. Bioabsorbable materials, however, can degrade and slowly be replaced by autologous bone tissue. [...] Read more.
Osteosynthesis in fracture treatment typically uses hardware that remains in the patient’s body, which brings a permanent risk of negative side effects such as foreign body reactions or chronic inflammation. Bioabsorbable materials, however, can degrade and slowly be replaced by autologous bone tissue. A suitable material is requested to offer great biocompatibility alongside excellent mechanical properties and a reasonable corrosion rate. Zinc–silver alloys provide these characteristics, which makes them a promising candidate for research. This study investigated the aptitude as a bioabsorbable implant of a novel zinc–silver alloy containing 3.3 wt% silver (ZnAg3). Here, the tensile strength as well as the corrosion rate in PBS solution (phosphate buffered solution) of ZnAg3 were assessed. Furthermore, shear tests, including fatigue and quasi-static testing, were conducted with ZnAg3 and magnesium pins (MAGNEZIX®, Syntellix AG, Hannover, Germany), which are already in clinical use. The detected corrosion rate of 0.10 mm/year for ZnAg3 was within the proposed range for bioabsorbable implants. With a tensile strength of 237.5 ± 2.12 MPa and a shear strength of 144.8 ± 13.2 N, ZnAg3 satisfied the mechanical requirements for bioabsorbable implants. The fatigue testing did not show any significant difference between ZnAg3 and magnesium pins, whereas both materials withstood the cyclic loading. Thus, the results support the assumption that ZnAg3 is qualified for further investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bone Substitute Biomaterials)
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