Search Results (784)

Contemporary advances in bioengineering and materials science have substantially improved the viability of medical implants. The demand for optimized implant technologies has led to the development of advanced coatings that enhance biocompatibility, antimicrobial activity, and durability. Implant manufacturers and surgeons must anticipate both biological and mechanical challenges when implementing devices for patient use. Key areas of concern include infection, corrosion, wear, immune response, and implant rejection; regulatory and economic considerations must also be addressed. Materials science developments are optimizing the integration of established materials such as biometrics, composites, and nanomaterials, while also advancing fabrication-based innovations including plasma functionalization, anodization, and self-assembled monolayers. Emerging smart and stimuli-responsive surface technologies enable controlled drug delivery and real-time implant status communication. These innovations enhance osseointegration, antimicrobial performance, and overall device functionality across orthopedic, dental, and cardiovascular applications. As implant design continues to shift toward personalized, responsive systems, advanced coating technologies are poised to deliver significantly improved long-term clinical outcomes for patients. Full article

Background: Bioactive composite resins combine the esthetic and mechanical properties of resin composites with therapeutic functions such as ion release, remineralization, and caries inhibition. While in vitro studies suggest promising bioactivity, their clinical performance in permanent teeth remains uncertain. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis critically appraised randomized controlled trials and prospective clinical studies to determine whether bioactive composites offer superior clinical performance compared to conventional resin composites and glass ionomer-based materials. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) were searched for eligible studies (2018–2025). Clinical outcomes assessed restoration survival, marginal integrity, secondary caries, postoperative sensitivity, and esthetic outcomes (color match). Data were pooled using a random-effects model, and risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane criteria. Results: Twenty-two trials met the inclusion criteria. No significant differences were found between bioactive and control restorations for survival/retention (RD = 0.01; 95% CI, –0.01 to 0.03), marginal adaptation (RD = 0.02; 95% CI, –0.02 to 0.06), secondary caries (RD = 0.01; 95% CI, –0.01 to 0.03), or postoperative sensitivity (RD = 0.01; 95% CI, –0.02 to 0.04), with negligible heterogeneity (I² = 0–4%). For color match, glass ionomer restorations showed significantly poorer outcomes (RD = –0.23; 95% CI, –0.31 to –0.14; p < 0.00001; I² = 98%), while conventional resin composites had a slight but significant advantage over bioactive composites (RD = 0.07; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.12; p = 0.003; I² = 76%). Most studies presented moderate risk of bias and short-term follow-up (<36 months). Conclusions: Current evidence indicates that bioactive composites perform comparably, but not superior, to conventional restoratives in permanent teeth. The discrepancy between laboratory bioactivity and clinical effectiveness highlights the need for long-term, well-designed clinical trials with standardized outcome reporting. Full article

The development of effective bone substitutes remains a central goal in regenerative medicine. In this study, lithium-modified bioglass-ceramics based on the 47.5S5 silicate oxide system were synthesized using the sol–gel method, followed by calcination and axial pressing to form cylindrical samples. These materials were sintered at 700 and 800 °C and subsequently examined to evaluate their structural, mechanical, and biological performance. Structural and microstructural analyses confirmed the presence of crystalline phases such as combeite (Na₆Ca₃Si₆O₁₈), NaLiSiO₄, Li₂SiO₃, and calcium silicates, indicating the successful incorporation of lithium within the glass-ceramic network. The bioceramics exhibited improved densification, deformability, and compressive strength with increasing sintering temperature. In vitro degradation in simulated body fluid revealed a consistent increase in mass loss with higher lithium content, suggesting enhanced resorbability linked to lithium oxide. Antibacterial testing indicated moderate antimicrobial activity, with slightly better results observed at higher sintering temperatures. Cell viability assays further supported the materials cytocompatibility. Taken together, these findings suggest that lithium substitution contributes positively to both mechanical robustness and biological behaviour, positioning these ceramics as promising bioresorbable bone substitutes with controlled degradation, suitable for bone tissue engineering where durability, bioactivity, and antimicrobial function are required. Full article

This study aimed to develop bioactive toothpaste and compare its remineralization potential on initial enamel lesions with toothpaste containing other active agents. Sixty extracted human maxillary incisors were randomly assigned to six groups: Group EXP (Experimental toothpaste), Group SRP (Sensodyne Repair & Protect), Group ZAC (Zubio Active Carbon Whitening), Group GTM (GC Tooth Mousse), Group CSP (Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief), and Group ASS (Artificial saliva, control). Artificial caries were induced by immersion in a demineralization solution for three days. Specimens then underwent a seven-day pH-cycling protocol, during which toothpaste was applied twice daily for two minutes. Analyses were performed at baseline, post-demineralization, and post-remineralization using ATR-FTIR, SEM-EDS, and Vickers micro-hardness testing. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 27.0, IBM Corp., Chicago, IL, USA). All treatment groups, except the control, showed significant microhardness recovery after remineralization, with the highest increase in group CSP followed by group EXP (p < 0.05). Granular surface deposits were observed, most pronounced in groups SRP and GTM (p < 0.05). Calcium and phosphorus contents increased in all groups (p < 0.05), with calcium highest in group GTM and phosphorus in group EXP. The mineral-to-matrix ratio increased in all groups, and a statistically significant difference was identified between the experimental toothpaste (EXP) and the other toothpaste formulations (p < 0.05). It is hypothesized that pomegranate seed essential oil may exhibit a remineralizing effect due to its content of anthocyanidins, anthocyanins, and various polyphenolic compounds. Therefore, the development of a toothpaste with enhanced remineralization potential was targeted by incorporating pomegranate seed essential oil into the experimental formulation in addition to bioactive agents such as bioactive glass, hydroxyapatite, and casein phosphopeptide. Full article

The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the remineralization effect of five preventive treatments on bovine enamel after artificial caries challenge. Sixty sound bovine incisors were randomly distributed into six experimental groups (n = 10). Each group received the following daily preventive treatments for two weeks during pH cycling to assess remineralization efficacy: Group 1—no treatment (control), Group 2—CPP-ACPF treatment, Group 3—fluoride-containing bioactive glass treatment (BioMin™F), Group 4—SnF₂ treatment, Group 5—toothpaste containing fluoride and hydroxyapatite (HA), and Group 6—toothpaste containing HA. Surface hardness changes were evaluated using a nanoindentation tester. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe changes in surface morphology, and the mineral composition of enamel in each group was analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Groups 2, 3 and 6 exhibited the highest surface hardness values after pH cycling, with no statistically significant differences among them (p > 0.05), whereas groups 4 and 5 presented significantly lower values (p < 0.05). Although all treatments demonstrated significant remineralization potential—resulting in an 18.7–35.2% increase in surface hardness—none of them fully restored the hardness loss caused by demineralization. SEM observations revealed precipitations mainly in groups 2–4 after the treatments. EDS showed a similar elemental composition on enamel across the groups with no differences compared to the control. Additionally, line scans of the Ca and P content from the surface to the deeper layers resulted higher values in the tested groups compared to the control corresponding to the surface hardness values. The tested remineralizing treatments may be useful to limit the demineralizing effect during caries formation. Full article

Background/Objectives: The poor aqueous solubility of curcumin (CUR) limits its pharmaceutical application. Although amorphization can enhance its solubility, the amorphous form often exhibits insufficient physical stability. Co-amorphization, particularly drug–drug co-amorphous (CAM) formation, offers a promising approach to improve solubility, stability, and therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to prepare and evaluate two CUR-based CAM systems using isoquinoline alkaloids berberine hydrochloride (BER) and palmatine hydrochloride (PAL) as co-formers to achieve simultaneous stabilization and synergistic bioactivity. Methods: CUR-BER and CUR-PAL CAM systems were prepared via rotary evaporation under vacuum at a 1:1 molar ratio. The solid-state properties were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and ¹³C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (ssNMR). Dissolution, solubility, and stability studies were conducted, while antioxidant and anticancer activities were assessed by DPPH/ABTS⁺ radical-scavenging and MTT assays using HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. Results: PXRD and DSC confirmed the formation of single-phase amorphous systems with higher glass transition temperatures, indicating strong intermolecular interactions between CUR and BER/PAL. ¹³C ssNMR spectroscopy evidenced hydrogen-bond formation between the enolic hydroxyl moiety of CUR and the methoxy oxygen atoms in BER or PAL molecules. Both CAM systems significantly enhanced the solubility and dissolution rate of CUR, with CUR-PAL CAM showing up to a 15.1-fold solubility improvement. The CAM systems also displayed superior thermal stability, photolytic stability, and improved short-term humidity resistance, together with enhanced antioxidant and anticancer activities compared with pure amorphous CUR. Conclusions: Co-amorphization of CUR with isoquinoline alkaloids effectively improved solubility, stability, antioxidant and anticancer activities, representing a promising strategy for the rational design of multifunctional amorphous CUR-based drug formulations. Full article

Diabetes mellitus is a serious public health problem, mainly due to the difficulty in healing chronic wounds, which present an inflammatory response for long periods of time and are more vulnerable to infections. Hydrogels are a promising therapeutic solution due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to allow controlled release of therapeutic agents. The addition of bioactive glasses doped with therapeutic ions to hydrogels can also provide specific biological responses to the system and thus improve tissue regeneration. In this study, a hydrogel based on carboxymethylcellulose and polyethylene glycol with different degrees of crosslinking and enriched with 10% by weight of CeO₂-doped Bioglass 45S5 was developed. Structural, morphological, mechanical, and biological characterizations were performed on bioactive glass, hydrogels, and hydrogels enriched with bioactive glass. Structural analyses confirmed the preservation of the typical amorphous structure of Bioglass 45S5, even after the incorporation of 5% molar CeO₂, as well as the effectiveness of the polymer matrix crosslinking process. Structural analyses demonstrated the preservation of the typical amorphous structure of Bioglass 45S5, even after the incorporation of 5 mol% CeO₂, as well as the effectiveness of the polymer matrix cross-linking process. The hydrogels exhibited distinct behaviours in terms of water absorption and degradation, showing that the sample with the lowest concentration of crosslinkers and bioactive glass allowed for a higher expansion rate and a higher degradation rate. The hydrogel with 10 wt% BG did not compromise cell viability and showed structural integrity after being subjected to cyclic flexible deformations, indicating its safety and suitability for use in tissue engineering. Full article

Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) and biomaterials, such as mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG), are critical for bone tissue engineering. This study aimed to 3D-print CPC scaffolds modified with MBG to enhance their osteogenic potential and regenerative ability. MBG powder was synthesized and characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption techniques. A commercial CPC ink (hydroxyapatite/α-tricalcium phosphate) was mixed with 5% MBG (w/w; CPC/MBG), and, after rheological assessment, the mixture was used to obtain scaffolds via 3D printing. These scaffolds were then tested for chemical, morphological, and mechanical properties, as well as ion release analysis. Unmodified CPC 3D-printed scaffolds served as controls. Biological experiments, including cell viability, DNA content, cell adhesion/spreading, and osteogenic gene expression, were performed by seeding alveolar bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells onto the scaffolds. Statistics were performed using Student’s t-test and ANOVA with post hoc tests (α = 5%). MBG characterization showed a typical mesoporous structure with aligned microchannels and an amorphous structure. Both formulations released calcium and phosphate ions; however, CPC/MBG also released silicon. Cell viability, adhesion/spreading, and DNA content were significantly greater in CPC/MBG scaffolds compared to CPC (p < 0.05) after 3 and 7 days of culture. Furthermore, CPC/MBG supported increased expression of key osteogenic genes, including collagen (COL1A1), osteocalcin (OCN), and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), after 14 days (p < 0.05). The combination of CPC ink with MBG particles effectively enhances the biocompatibility and osteogenic potential of the scaffold, making it an innovative bioceramic ink formulation for 3D printing personalized scaffolds for bone regeneration. Full article

Bioactive glasses (BGs) are promising materials for enamel remineralization and caries management due to their ion-releasing ability and capacity to promote apatite formation. However, their clinical translation remains limited. Conventional BGs, such as 45S5, exhibit excellent bioactivity but are mechanically weak, prone to rapid ion burst release, and lack long-term stability. Recent advances—including secondary oxide incorporation (e.g., B₂O₃, ZnO), polymer–glass hybrids, and nanostructured systems like mesoporous BGs and RegeSi have improved reactivity, mechanical performance, and remineralization depth, though their durability under oral conditions is not yet established. BGs also display antibacterial activity by elevating local pH and releasing ions that inhibit cariogenic bacteria, but their broader ecological impact on the oral microbiome remains poorly understood. Emerging approaches such as halogen-modified BGs, particularly fluoride- and chloride-doped formulations, show dual benefits for remineralization and antimicrobial action, though supporting evidence is largely confined to in vitro studies. The absence of standardized protocols for assessing remineralization, ion release, and biofilm interaction further complicates cross-study comparisons and slows clinical adoption. Future progress will require interdisciplinary collaboration, standardized evaluation methods, and rigorous clinical validation to ensure that next-generation BGs can be safely and effectively integrated into dental practice. Full article

Bioactive glasses remain promising candidates for enhancing osseointegration on metallic implants. However, achieving a composition that combines controlled dissolution, cytocompatibility, and antimicrobial functionality remains an ongoing challenge. Building upon the prior structural and thermal characterization of boron-substituted 6P55 phosphosilicate glasses, this study investigates the biological consequences of incorporating 0, 5, 10, and 15 mol% B₂O₃ to determine their suitability as coatings for Ti6Al4V. Glass extracts were evaluated using L-929 fibroblast cultures (MTT assay and ImageJ-based cell counting), antimicrobial assays against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus using a semi-quantitative dilution-plating method, and SBF immersion studies to assess pH evolution, surface mineralization, and Ca/P ratio development. FTIR and SEM analyses revealed composition-dependent formation of phosphate-, carbonate-, and silicate-rich surface layers, with 5B exhibiting the most consistent early-stage hydroxyapatite-like signatures, supported by Ca/P ratios approaching the stoichiometric value. The pH measurements showed rapid alkalization for 5B and moderate buffering behavior at higher boron contents, consistent with boron-dependent modifications to network connectivity. Cytocompatibility studies demonstrated a dose- and time-dependent reduction in cell number at elevated B₂O₃ levels, whereas the 0B and 5B extracts maintained higher viability and preserved cell morphology. Antibacterial assays revealed strain-dependent and sub-lethal inhibitory effects, with E. coli exhibiting stronger sensitivity than S. aureus, likely due to differences in cell wall architecture and susceptibility to ionic osmotic microenvironment changes. When considered alongside previously published computational and physicochemical results, the biological data indicate that moderate boron incorporation (5 mol%) provides the most favorable balance between dissolution kinetics, apatite formation, cytocompatibility, and antimicrobial modulation. These findings identify the 5B composition as a strong candidate for further optimization toward bioactive glass coatings on Ti6Al4V implants. Full article

Strawberries and blueberries are globally recognized for their dense nutritional profile, bioactive compounds, and health-promoting properties. Yet, their perishability and seasonality limit their availability, stability, and functionality in food and nutraceutical formulations. Drying technologies, particularly spray drying and freeze drying, are effective preservation strategies that convert fresh berries into stable, shelf-ready powders. However, the high sugar content, low glass transition temperature (Tg), and hygroscopic nature of berry matrices pose significant challenges in maintaining powder flowability, preventing caking, and ensuring structural integrity during processing, storage, and transportation. This review examines the physicochemical and surface properties of strawberry and blueberry powders as influenced by the drying method, environmental conditions, and carrier selection (e.g., maltodextrin, gum arabic, and whey proteins). Emphasis is placed on glass transition phenomena, moisture sorption behavior, and surface composition as determinants of physical stability and shelf life. The roles of water activity (aw), particle morphology, and interparticle interactions are analyzed in the context of formulation design and powder performance. Analytical techniques in characterizing bulk properties for the amorphous structure and sorption kinetics and probing surface properties of powders are crucial for understanding interactions with water, assessing flow, caking, sintering, and dissolution. By integrating insights from food physical chemistry and materials surface properties, this review provides a framework for the rational design of berry-based powders with improved handling, stability, and bio-functionality. The findings have direct implications for scalable production, global distribution, and the development of functional ingredients aligned with health and wellness priorities worldwide. Full article

Objectives: Burn being a major traumatic issue worldwide impacts millions of lives annually. Herein, a novel xanthan dialdehyde/sodium alginate/copper-doped mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticle (XDA/Na-ALG/Cu-MBGN) hydrogel is presented in this study. Methods: The hydrogel was fabricated by a casting method, followed by its characterization in terms of its morphology, surface topography, and in vitro biochemical and physical interactions. Results: Scanning electron microscopy images revealed the rough surface of the hydrogel, ideal for cell attachment and proliferation. The nanoporous structure revealed by BET enabled it to hold moisture for an extended span. The nanopores were developed because of the ether linkage developed between XDA and Na-ALG, as evident from Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The loading of Cu-MBGNs was also confirmed by FTIR. The release of copper ions was sustained throughout the 7 days, and it is accounting for about 22 µg/mL in 330 h, which follows the degradation kinetics of XDA/Na-ALG/Cu-MBGN hydrogels. The released copper ions promoted angiogenesis, as confirmed by the enhanced release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for the XDA/Na-ALG/Cu-MBGN hydrogel (275 ng/mL) in comparison to 200 ng/mL of the bare TCP. The hydrogel, despite being bactericidal against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) did not show toxicity towards human dermal fibroblasts confirmed via a Water-Soluble Tetrazolium 8 assay. Conclusions: Hence, the developed XDA/Na-ALG/Cu-MBGN hydrogel possesses potential to be investigated further in terms of in vivo interactions. Full article

Estrogen deficiency is a primary cause of osteoporosis, compromising bone mineral density that may impair peri-implant healing. Given the compromised bone environment associated with estrogen deficiency, strategies such as particle reduction via sonochemistry are promising approaches to enhance regenerative outcomes. However, its effects in promoting bone formation remain insufficiently explored. Therefore, this study evaluated the potential of two sonicated biomaterials to improve peri-implant repair in ovariectomized rats. Fifty female rats were allocated into five groups: blood clot (CLOT), Biogran^® (BGN), sonicated Biogran^® (BGS), Bio-Oss^® (BON), and sonicated Bio-Oss^® (BOS). Tibial peri-implant defects were created 30 days after ovariectomy and analyzed 28 days later by removal torque, microcomputed tomography, and confocal microscopy. BGS exhibited the highest removal torque (6.28 Ncm), followed by BON (5.37 Ncm), BOS (3.92 Ncm), BGN (3.15 Ncm), and CLOT (2.58 Ncm). Micro-CT revealed bone volume fraction (BV/TV) values of 8.07% (CLOT), 6.47% (BOS), 6.02% (BGS), 5.55% (BGN), and 2.84% (BON). For the trabecular number (Tb.N), BGS (1.11 mm⁻¹) showed a significant increase compared with BGN (0.69 mm⁻¹), p < 0.05. These findings show that sonochemically modified bioactive glass improves mechanical stability and trabecular microarchitecture under estrogen-deficient conditions. However, further studies are needed to standardize sonication parameters for different biomaterials and expand their translational applicability. Full article

Ceramic materials have gained outstanding popularity in restorative and prosthetic dentistry due to their combination of high biocompatibility, mechanical durability, and natural esthetics. Among the most important developments in this field are the use of zirconia- and glass-based ceramics for various applications. Zirconia ceramics, especially yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (Y-TZP), are famous for their high mechanical strength, transformation toughening, chemical stability, and great biocompatibility. Newer generations like 4Y/5Y-PSZ zirconia have addressed the demand for higher translucency, meeting esthetic requirements. Glass–ceramics, including lithium disilicate and leucite-reinforced systems, are preferred for their optical properties, etchability, and strong adhesive bonding. Their microstructure provides a balance between strength and esthetics, supporting minimally invasive restorations with long-term clinical success. Both zirconia and glass–ceramics exhibit favorable biological responses, including low plaque accumulation and soft tissue compatibility. The goal of ongoing research is to overcome limitations, such as low-temperature degradation, bonding limitations, and surface durability. Also, to improve mechanical performance and functional integration, new approaches include 3D printing, graded materials, nanostructuring, and bioactive coatings. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the composition, properties, clinical applications, current limitations, and future perspectives of zirconia- and glass-based ceramics in restorative dentistry. Full article

Background: Alveolar bone resorption remains a major challenge in implant and prosthetic rehabilitation. While autologous bone grafts are still considered the gold standard, their biological and surgical limitations have promoted the use of synthetic biomaterials such as biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP), β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite, and bioactive glass. Methods: This systematic review, conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, was based on a comprehensive search performed in March 2025 across PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar. A total of 11 clinical studies—including both randomized and non-randomized comparative trials—were identified. Due to the marked heterogeneity of study designs and outcome measures, meta-analysis was not feasible. Reported outcomes focused on bone volume preservation, residual biomaterial, implant stability, histological integration, and postoperative complications. Results: Overall, synthetic biomaterials achieved satisfactory bone regeneration and implant stability, with mean bone preservation ranging between 85% and 95%, often comparable to xenografts and other grafting materials. Among the materials analyzed, β-TCP and BCP generally demonstrated superior resorption control and dimensional stability, while bioactive glass showed favorable integration and remodeling rates. The addition of bioactive agents such as rhBMP-2, rhPDGF-BB, or platelet-rich plasma further enhanced new bone formation. Conclusions: Within the limits of current evidence, synthetic biomaterials show clinical performance comparable to xenografts, particularly in socket preservation and ridge augmentation procedures. Their predictable handling, absence of donor-site morbidity, and potential for bioactive enhancement make them valuable tools for routine clinical use. Larger, standardized trials with long-term follow-up are needed to validate these findings and refine material selection in alveolar bone regeneration. Full article