Search Results (2,070)

In this study, a series of copolymers was synthesized using the promising biodegradable polymers Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and Poly(ethylene adipate) (PEAd), known for their high potential. PEAd was synthesized through a two-step melt polycondensation process and then used to prepare copolymers with PLLA (PLLA-co-PEAd) and PLGA (PLGA-co-PEAd) at weight ratios of 90/10 and 75/25, respectively. The synthesized materials, along with the starting polymers, were extensively characterized for their structure, molecular weight, crystallinity, and thermal behavior. These novel systems exhibit single thermal transitions, e.g., glass transition. The incorporation of PEAd into the copolymers induced a plasticizing effect, evidenced by a consistent decrease in the glass transition temperature. Due to the latter effect in combination with the M_w drop, the facilitation of crystal nucleation was observed. Finally, the results by dielectric spectroscopy on the local and segmental molecular mobility provided additional proof for the homogeneity of the systems, as manifested, e.g., by the recording of single segmental relaxation processes. Overall, the findings indicate that the PLLA-co-PEAd and PLGA-co-PEAd copolymers hold significant potential, and the use of complementary experimental techniques offers valuable insights and indirect indications of their properties. Full article

Electrospun nanofibrous membranes have gained considerable attention in bone tissue engineering due to their ability to mimic the extracellular matrix and provide a suitable environment for cell attachment and proliferation. This study investigates the fabrication, characterization, and biocompatibility of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLA)-based membranes enhanced with periclase (MgO) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The membranes were fabricated using an optimized electrospinning process and subsequently characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and contact angle measurements. Additionally, in vitro biodegradation studies in simulated body fluid (SBF) and cytocompatibility tests with osteoblast-like cells were conducted. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of MgO and AuNPs significantly influenced the structural and chemical properties of the membranes, improving their wettability and bioactivity. SEM imaging confirmed uniform fiber morphology with well-distributed nanoparticles. FT-IR spectroscopy indicated successful integration of bioactive components into the PLA matrix. Cytocompatibility assays showed that modified membranes promoted higher osteoblast adhesion and proliferation compared to pristine PLA membranes. Furthermore, biodegradation studies revealed a controlled degradation rate suitable for guided bone regeneration applications. These findings suggest that electrospun PLA membranes enriched with MgO and AuNPs present a promising biomaterial for GBR applications, offering improved bioactivity, mechanical stability, and biocompatibility. Full article

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is highly prevalent in the Greater Mekong sub-region, especially northeastern Thailand, where infection with the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini is a major etiological factor. Limited therapeutic options and the absence of reliable early diagnosis tools impede effective disease control. Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC.—long used in Thai and East Asian medicine, contains atractylodin (ATD), a potent bioactive compound with anticancer potential. Here, we developed ATD-loaded poly(lactic co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (ATD PLGA NPs) and evaluated their antitumor efficacy against CCA. The formulated nanoparticles had a mean diameter of 229.8 nm, an encapsulation efficiency of 83%, and exhibited biphasic, sustained release, reaching a cumulative release of 92% within seven days. In vitro, ATD-PLGA NPs selectively reduced the viability of CL-6 and HuCCT-1 CCA cell lines, with selectivity indices (SI) of 3.53 and 2.61, respectively, outperforming free ATD and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). They suppressed CL-6 cell migration and invasion by up to 90% within 12 h and induced apoptosis in 83% of cells through caspase-3/7 activation. Micronucleus assays showed lower mutagenic potential than the positive control. In vivo, ATD-PLGA NPs dose-dependently inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival in CCA-xenografted nude mice; the high-dose regimen matched or exceeded the efficacy of 5-FU. Gene expression analysis revealed significant downregulation of pro-tumorigenic factors (VEGF, MMP-9, TGF-β, TNF-α, COX-2, PGE₂, and IL-6) and upregulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Collectively, these results indicate that ATD-PLGA NPs are a promising nanotherapeutic platform for targeted CCA treatment, offering improved anticancer potency, selectivity, and safety compared to conventional therapies. Full article

Biopolymers and bio-based plastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), are recognized as environmentally friendly materials and are widely used, especially in the packaging industry. The purpose of this study was to assess the degradation of PLA- and PBS-based formulations in the forms of granules and films under controlled composting conditions at a laboratory scale. Biodegradation tests of bio-based materials were conducted under controlled aerobic conditions, following the standard EVS-EN ISO 14855-1:2012. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed using a high-resolution Zeiss Ultra 55 scanning electron microscope to analyze the samples. After the six-month laboratory-scale composting experiment, it was observed that the PLA-based materials degraded by 47.46–98.34%, while the PBS-based materials exhibited a final degradation degree of 34.15–80.36%. Additionally, the PLA-based compounds displayed a variable total organic carbon (TOC) content ranging from 38% to 56%. In contrast, the PBS-based compounds exhibited a more consistent TOC content, with a narrow range from 53% to 54%. These findings demonstrate that bioplastics can contribute to reducing plastic waste through controlled composting, but their degradation efficiency depends on the material composition and environmental conditions. Future efforts should optimize bioplastic formulations and composting systems while developing supportive policies for wider adoption. Full article

Bone-related defects present a key challenge in orthopaedics. The current gold standard, autografts, poses significant limitations, such as donor site morbidity, limited supply, and poor morphological adaptability. This study investigates the potential of scaffold geometry to induce osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) through mechanotransduction, without the use of chemical inducers. Four distinct poly-(L)-lactic acid (PLA) scaffold architectures—Traditional Cross (Tc), Triangle (T), Diamond (D), and Gyroid (G)—were fabricated using fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing. hADSCs were cultured on these scaffolds, and their response was evaluated utilising an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay, immunofluorescence, and extensive proteomic analyses. The results showed the D scaffold to have the highest ALP activity, followed by Tc. Proteomics results showed that more than 1200 proteins were identified in each scaffold with unique proteins expressed in each scaffold, respectively Tc—204, T—194, D—244, and G—216. Bioinformatics analysis revealed structures with complex curvature to have an increased expression of proteins involved in mid- to late-stage osteogenesis signalling and differentiation pathways, while the Tc scaffold induced an increased expression of signalling and differentiation pathways pertaining to angiogenesis and early osteogenesis. Full article

In this study, multicomponent PLA-based biocomposites were developed. In particular, both native fibrous cellulose and cellulose with modified morphology obtained through ball milling treatments were incorporated into the polyester matrix in combination with an oligomeric plasticizer, specifically a lactic acid oligomer (OLA). The resulting materials were analyzed in terms of their morphology, thermal and mechanical properties over time, water vapor permeability, and degradation under soil burial conditions in comparison to neat PLA and unplasticized PLA/cellulose composites. The cellulose phase significantly affected the mechanical properties and enhanced their long-term stability, addressing a common limitation of PLA/plasticizer blends. Additionally, water vapor permeability increased in all composites. Finally, the ternary systems exhibited a significantly higher degradation rate in soil burial conditions compared to PLA, evidenced by larger weight loss and reduction in the molecular weight of the PLA phase. The degradation rate was notably influenced by the morphology of the cellulose phase. Full article

Background: A precise drug delivery system enables the optimization of treatments with minimal side effects if it can deliver medication only when activated by a specific light source. This study presents a controlled drug delivery system based on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles (MPs) designed for the sustained release of vancomycin hydrochloride. Methods: The MPs were co-loaded with indocyanine green (ICG), a near-infrared (NIR) responsive agent, and fabricated via the double emulsion method.They were characterized for stability, surface modification, biocompatibility, and antibacterial efficacy. Results: Dynamic light scattering and zeta potential analyses confirmed significant increases in particle size and surface charge reversal following chitosan coating. Scanning electron microscopy revealed uniform morphology in uncoated MPs (1–10 $\mathsf{\mu }$m) and irregular surfaces post-coating. Stability tests demonstrated drug retention for up to 180 days. Among formulations, PVI1 exhibited the highest yield (76.67 ± 1.3%) and encapsulation efficiency (56.2 ± 1.95%). NIR irradiation (808 nm) enhanced drug release kinetics, with formulation PVI4 achieving over 48.9% release, resulting in improved antibacterial activity. Chitosan-coated MPs (e.g., PVI4-C) effectively suppressed drug release without NIR light for up to 8 h, with cumulative release reaching only 10.89%. Without NIR light, bacterial colonies exceeded 1000 CFU; NIR-triggered release reduced them below 120 CFU. Drug release data fitted best with the zero-order and Korsmeyer–Peppas models, suggesting a combination of diffusion-controlled and constant-rate release behavior. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the promise of chitosan-coated NIR-responsive PLGA MPs for precise, on-demand antibiotic delivery and improved antibacterial performance. Full article

Biodegradable polymers offer environmental advantages compared to fossil-based alternatives, but they currently lack the stretchability required for demanding applications such as mesh fabrics for woven flexible intermediate bulk container (FIBC) bags and stretch, shrink, and cling films. The goal of this research is to enhance the stretchability of biodegradable blends based on 80% poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) and 20% poly(lactic acid) (PLA) through reactive extrusion. Radical initiator (dicumyl peroxide (DCP)) and chain extenders (maleic anhydride (MA), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA)) were employed to improve the melt strength and elasticity of the extruded films. The reactive blends were initially prepared using a batch mixer and subsequently compounded in a twin-screw extruder. Films were produced via cast extrusion. 0.1% wt. DCP led to a 200% increase in elongation at break and a 44% improvement in tensile strength. Differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy revealed enhanced miscibility between components. Shear and complex viscosity increased by 38% and 85%, compared to the neat blend, respectively. Reactive extrusion led to a better dispersion and distribution of the phases. An improved interfacial adhesion between the phases, in addition to higher molecular weight, led to enhanced melt strength and improved stretchability. Full article

Although PLA is an attractive biodegradable polymer, its degradation under natural conditions is often slow. This study investigates whether incorporating pounamu (New Zealand jade) particles into PLA can enhance its biodegradation rate under composting conditions at room temperature. PLA composites containing 0 to 15 wt% pounamu were fabricated using both compression molding and 3D printing. A simple, reproducible protocol based on residual mass measurement was developed to monitor the biodegradation process over a 12-month period. The results showed that increasing pounamu content consistently accelerated mass loss of the composite in the compost, indicating enhanced biodegradation. The 3D-printed samples degraded more rapidly than compression-molded ones. This was attributed to the layered structure, internal microcavities, and lower crystallinity of the 3D-printed samples, which provided greater surface area and accessibility for microbial activity. These findings highlight the dual role of pounamu as both a crystallization promoter and a facilitator of biodegradation and underscore the importance of the processing method when designing biodegradable polymer composites for real-world applications. Full article

In recent years, significant progress has been made in breast reconstructive surgery, particularly with the use of three-dimensional (3D) disassemblable scaffolds. Reconstructive plastic surgery aimed at restoring the shape and size of the mammary gland offers medical, psychological, and social benefits. Using autologous tissues allows surgeons to recreate the appearance of the mammary gland and achieve tactile sensations similar to those of a healthy organ while minimizing the risks associated with implants; 3D disassemblable scaffolds are a promising solution that overcomes the limitations of traditional methods. These constructs offer the potential for patient-specific anatomical adaptation and can provide both temporary and long-term structural support for regenerating tissues. One of the most promising approaches in post-mastectomy breast reconstruction involves the use of autologous cellular and tissue components integrated into either synthetic scaffolds—such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polycaprolactone (PCL)—or naturally derived biopolymer-based matrices, including alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid derivatives, collagen, fibrin, gelatin, and silk fibroin. In this context, two complementary research directions are gaining increasing significance: (1) the development of novel hybrid biomaterials that combine the favorable characteristics of both synthetic and natural polymers while maintaining biocompatibility and biodegradability; and (2) the advancement of three-dimensional bioprinting technologies for the fabrication of patient-specific scaffolds capable of incorporating cellular therapies. Such therapies typically involve mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and bioactive signaling molecules, such as growth factors, aimed at promoting angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and lineage-specific differentiation. In our review, we analyze existing developments in this area and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of 3D disassemblable scaffolds for mammary gland reconstruction, as well as prospects for their further research and clinical use. Full article

This study proposes a continuous preparation strategy for poly (l-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffolds with oriented hierarchical microporous structures for bone repair. A PLLA-oriented multi-stage microporous bone repair scaffold (hereafter referred to as the oriented multi-stage microporous scaffold) was designed using a novel extrusion foaming technology that integrates fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing with supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) microcellular foaming technology. The influence of the 3D-printed structure on the microcellular morphology of the oriented multi-stage microporous scaffold was investigated and optimized. The combination of FDM and SC-CO₂ foaming technology enables a continuous extrusion foaming process for preparing oriented multi-stage microporous scaffolds. The mechanical strength of the scaffold reached 15.27 MPa, meeting the requirements for bone repair in a low-load environment. Notably, the formation of open pores on the surface of the oriented multi-stage microporous scaffold positively affected cell proliferation, differentiation, and activity, as well as the expression of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory factors. In vitro cell experiments (such as CCK-8) showed that the cell proliferation rate in the oriented multi-stage microporous scaffold reached 100–300% after many days of cultivation. This work provides a strategy for the design and manufacture of PLLA scaffolds with hierarchical microcellular structures and biocompatibility for bone repair. Full article

Biodegradable polymer composites offer promising alternatives to petroleum-based plastics, supporting the principles of a zero waste and circular economy. This study investigates the reinforcing potential of alkali-treated wood flour derived from recycled pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) and poplar (Populus alba L.) waste wooden pallets in poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biocomposites. Wood flour was initially recovered through grinding and screening during recycling, followed by alkali treatment via a green chemistry approach to enhance interfacial bonding with the PLA matrix. The impact of alkali concentration and two fabrication methods—additive manufacturing (AM) and injection molding (IM)—on the properties of developed biocomposite materials was assessed through mechanical, physical, morphological, and thermal analyses. IM samples outperformed AM counterparts, with the IM PLA containing 30 wt% wood flour (alkali-treated with 10% solution) showing the highest mechanical gains: tensile (+71.35%), flexural (+64.74%), and hardness (+2.62%) compared to untreated samples. Moreover, the AM sample with 10 wt% wood flour and 10% alkali treatment showed a 49.37% decrease in water absorption compared to the untreated sample, indicating improved hydrophobicity. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that alkali treatment reduced void content and enhanced morphological uniformity, while thermal properties remained consistent across fabrication methods. This work introduces a green composite using non-toxic materials and treatments, facilitating eco-friendly production aligned with zero waste and circular economy principles throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. Full article

Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive malignant primary brain tumour. Patients with glioblastoma have a median survival of only around 14.6 months after diagnosis, despite the availability of various conventional multimodal treatments including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Therefore, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as an advanced, selective and more controlled therapeutic approach, which has minimal systemic toxicity and fewer side effects. PDT is a less invasive therapy that targets all cells or tissues that possess the photosensitizer (PS) itself, without affecting the surrounding healthy tissues. Polymeric NPs (PNPs) as carriers can improve the targeting ability and stability of PSs and co-deliver various anticancer agents to achieve combined cancer therapy. Because of their versatile tuneable features, these PNPs have the capacity to open tight junctions of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), easily transport drugs across the BBB, protect against enzymatic degradation, prolong the systemic circulation, and sustainably release the drug. Conjugated polymer NPs, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-based NPs, lipid–polymer hybrid NPs, and polyethylene-glycolated PNPs have demonstrated great potential in PDT owing to their unique biocompatibility and optical properties. Although the combination of PDT and PNPs has great potential and can provide several benefits over conventional cancer therapies, there are several limitations that are hindering its translation into clinical use. This review aims to summarize the recent advances in the combined use of PNPs and PDT in the case of glioblastoma treatment. By evaluating various types of PDT and PNPs, this review emphasizes how these innovative approaches can play an important role in overcoming glioblastoma-associated critical challenges, including BBB and tumour heterogeneity. Furthermore, this review also discusses the challenges and future directions for PNPs and PDT, which provides insight into the potential solutions to various problems that are hindering their clinical translation in glioblastoma treatment. Full article

Background/Objectives: Personalized 3D-printed (3DP) metallic implants delivery systems are being explored to repair bone fractures, allowing the customization of medical implants that respond to individual patient needs, making it potentially more effective and of greater quality than mass-produced devices. However, challenges associated with postsurgical infections caused by bacterial adhesion remain a clinical issue. To address this, local antibiotic therapies are receiving extensive attention to minimize the risk of implant-related infections. This study investigated the use of amikacin (AMK), a broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic, incorporated onto 3D-printed 316L stainless steel implants using biodegradable polymer coatings of chitosan and poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). Methods: This research examined different approaches to coat 3DP implants with amikacin. Various polymer-based coatings were studied to determine the optimal formulation based on the characteristics and release profile. The optimal formulation was performed on the antibacterial activity studies. Results: AMK-chitosan with PLGA coating implants controlled the rate of drug release for up to one month. The 3DP drug-loaded substrates demonstrated effective, concentration-dependent antibacterial activity against common infective pathogens. AMK-loaded substrates showed antimicrobial effectiveness for one week and inhibited bacteria significantly compared to the uncoated controls. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that 3DP metal surfaces coated with amikacin can provide customizable drug release profiles while effectively inhibiting bacterial growth. These findings highlight the potential of combining 3D printing with localized delivery strategies to prevent implant-associated infections and advance the development of personalized therapies. Full article

Scaffold architecture plays a significant role in regulating cellular and microbial interactions in tissue engineering applications. This study evaluates the performance of 3D-printed poly (lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds with varying porosity levels (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) in mechanical strength, supporting human skin fibroblast (HSF) viability and reducing bacterial colonization of Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus), and Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli). The maximum tensile strength (28 MPa) was achieved in the 100% dense scaffold. Increasing porosity drastically decreased tensile strength, where 80% PLA scaffold possessed 16 MPa strength. At greater levels of porosity (60% and 40%), tensile strengths greatly decrease (8 MPa and 4 MPa), while ductility increases, especially at high porosity levels. HSF viability, assessed using the AlamarBlue assay, showed a time-dependent increase in cell proliferation, with the highest viability observed on scaffolds with 60% and 80% porosity. SEM imaging confirmed strong cell adhesion on the 80% porous scaffold, indicating that intermediate-to-high porosity enhances cell attachment and metabolic activity. In contrast, bacterial adhesion showed species-specific responses to scaffold porosity. S. epidermidis and E. coli exhibited a progressive increase in adherence with porosity, peaking at 100%. P. aeruginosa showed maximum adhesion at 80%, suggesting a porosity “sweet spot” that favors its colonization. S. aureus adhered most strongly to scaffolds with intermediate porosities (40–60%) and significantly less at 100% porosity. The current study provides insights into scaffold design considerations, emphasizing the need for optimized scaffold architecture that balances regenerative potential with infection control in tissue engineering applications. Full article