Search Results (1,515)

Gene therapy is a groundbreaking strategy in regenerative medicine, enabling precise cellular behavior modulation for tissue repair. In situ nucleic acid delivery systems aim to directly deliver nucleic acids to target cells or tissues to realize localized genetic reprogramming and avoid issues like donor cell dependency and immune rejection. The key to success relies on biomaterial-engineered delivery platforms that ensure tissue-specific targeting and efficient intracellular transport. Viral vectors and non-viral carriers are strategically modified to enhance nucleic acid stability and cellular uptake, and integrate them into injectable or 3D-printed scaffolds. These scaffolds not only control nucleic acid release but also mimic native extracellular microenvironments to support stem cell recruitment and tissue regeneration. This review explores three key aspects: the mechanisms of gene editing in tissue repair; advancements in viral and non-viral vector engineering; and innovations in biomaterial scaffolds, including stimuli-responsive hydrogels and 3D-printed matrices. We evaluate scaffold fabrication methodologies, nucleic acid loading–release kinetics, and their biological impacts. Despite progress in spatiotemporal gene delivery control, challenges remain in balancing vector biocompatibility, manufacturing scalability, and long-term safety. Future research should focus on multifunctional “smart” scaffolds with CRISPR-based editing tools, multi-stimuli responsiveness, and patient-specific designs. This work systematically integrates the latest methodological advances, outlines actionable strategies for future investigations and advances clinical translation perspectives beyond the existing literature. Full article

Myocardial infarction (MI) remains one of the most common cardiovascular diseases and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In recent years, natural polymeric patches have attracted increasing attention as a promising therapeutic platform for myocardial tissue repair. This study explored the fabrication and evaluation of screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) on chitosan film as a novel platform for cardiac patch applications. Chitosan is a biodegradable and biocompatible natural polymer that provides an ideal substrate for SPEs, providing mechanical stability and promoting cell adhesion. Silver ink was employed to enhance electrochemical performance, and the electrodes exhibited strong adhesion and structural integrity under wet conditions. Mechanical testing and swelling ratio analysis were conducted to assess the patch’s physical robustness and aqueous stability. Silver ink was employed to enhance electrochemical performance, which was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry. In vitro, electrical stimulation through the chitosan–SPE patch significantly increased the expression of cardiac-specific genes (GATA-4, β-MHC, troponin I) in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), indicating early cardiogenic differentiation potential. In vivo, the implantation of the chitosan–SPE patch in a rat MI model demonstrated good tissue integration, preserved myocardial structure, and enhanced ventricular wall thickness, indicating that the patch has the potential to serve as a functional cardiac scaffold. These findings support the feasibility of screen-printed electrodes fabricated on chitosan film substrates as a cost-effective and scalable platform for cardiac repair, offering a foundation for future applications in cardiac tissue engineering. Full article

Hydrogel is widely used as a scaffolding material for tissue engineering due to its excellent cytocompatibility and potential for biofunctionalization. However, its poor mechanical property limits its further application. Fabrication of fiber-reinforced hydrogel composite scaffolds has emerged as a solution to overcome this problem. However, existing strategies usually produce nonporous composite scaffolds, where the interfiber pores are completely filled with hydrogel. This design can hinder oxygen and nutrient exchange between seeded cells and the culture medium, thereby limiting cell invasion and colonization within the scaffold. In this study, sodium alginate (SA) hydrogel was exclusively grafted onto the surface of the constituent fibers of the melt electrowritten scaffold while preserving the porous structure. The grafted hydrogel amount and pore size were precisely controlled by adjusting the SA concentration and the crosslinking ratio (SA: CaCl₂). Experimental results demonstrated that the porous composite scaffolds exhibited superior swelling capacity, degradation ratio, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. Notably, at an SA concentration of 0.5% and a crosslinking ratio of 2:1, the porous composite scaffold achieved optimal cell adhesion and viability. This study highlights the critical importance of preserving porous structures in composite scaffolds for tissue-engineering applications. Full article

Electrospun nanofiber membranes (ESNFMs) are exceptional biomaterials for tissue engineering, closely mimicking the native extracellular matrix. However, their inherent fragility poses significant handling, processing, and integration challenges, limiting their widespread application in advanced 3D tissue models and biofabricated devices. This study introduces a novel and on-mat framing technique utilizing extrusion-based printing of a UV-curable biocompatible resin (Biotough D90 MF) to create rigid, integrated support structures directly on chitosan–polyethylene oxide (PEO) ESNFMs. We demonstrate fabrication of these circular frames via precise 3D printing and a simpler manual stamping method, achieving robust mechanical stabilization that enables routine laboratory manipulation without membrane damage. The resulting framed ESNFMs maintain structural integrity during subsequent processing and exhibit excellent biocompatibility in standardized extract assays (116.5 ± 12.2% normalized cellular response with optimized processing) and acceptable performance in direct contact evaluations (up to 78.2 ± 32.4% viability in the optimal configuration). Temporal assessment revealed characteristic cellular adaptation dynamics on nanofiber substrates, emphasizing the importance of extended evaluation periods for accurate biocompatibility determination of three-dimensional scaffolds. This innovative biofabrication approach overcomes critical limitations of previous handling methods, transforming delicate ESNFMs into robust, easy-to-use components for reliable integration into complex cell culture applications, barrier tissue models, and engineered systems. Full article

Piezocatalytic therapy (PCT) is a promising strategy for combating implant-associated infections due to its high tissue penetration depth and non-invasive nature. However, its catalytic efficiency remains limited by inefficient electron–hole separation. In this work, an ultrasound-responsive heterojunction (BiOI/Ti₃C₂) was fabricated through in situ growth of bismuth iodide oxide on titanium carbide nanosheets. Subsequently, we integrated BiOI/Ti₃C₂ into poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds using selective laser sintering. The synergistic effect between BiOI and Ti₃C₂ significantly facilitated the redistribution of piezo-induced charges under ultrasound irradiation, effectively suppressing electron–hole recombination. Furthermore, abundant oxygen vacancies in BiOI/Ti₃C₂ provide more active sites for piezocatalytic reactions. Therefore, it enables ultrahigh reactive oxygen species (ROS) yields under ultrasound irradiation, achieving eradication rates of 98.87% for Escherichia coli (E. coli) and 98.51% for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) within 10 minutes while maintaining cytocompatibility for potential tissue integration. This study provides a novel strategy for the utilization of ultrasound-responsive heterojunctions in efficient PCT therapy and bone regeneration. 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

In the rapidly evolving field of biomedical engineering, hydrogels have emerged as highly versatile biomaterials that bridge biology and technology through their high water content, exceptional biocompatibility, and tunable mechanical properties. This review provides an integrated overview of both natural and synthetic hydrogels, examining their structural properties, fabrication methods, and broad biomedical applications, including drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, wound healing, and regenerative medicine. Natural hydrogels derived from sources such as alginate, gelatin, and chitosan are highlighted for their biodegradability and biocompatibility, though often limited by poor mechanical strength and batch variability. Conversely, synthetic hydrogels offer precise control over physical and chemical characteristics via advanced polymer chemistry, enabling customization for specific biomedical functions, yet may present challenges related to bioactivity and degradability. The review also explores intelligent hydrogel systems with stimuli-responsive and bioactive functionalities, emphasizing their role in next-generation healthcare solutions. In modern medicine, temperature-, pH-, enzyme-, light-, electric field-, magnetic field-, and glucose-responsive hydrogels are among the most promising “smart materials”. Their ability to respond to biological signals makes them uniquely suited for next-generation therapeutics, from responsive drug systems to adaptive tissue scaffolds. Key challenges such as scalability, clinical translation, and regulatory approval are discussed, underscoring the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and continued innovation. Overall, this review fosters a comprehensive understanding of hydrogel technologies and their transformative potential in enhancing patient care through advanced, adaptable, and responsive biomaterial systems. Full article

Marine biomass represents a valuable yet underexploited resource for the development of high-value biomaterials. Recent advances have highlighted the significant potential of marine-derived polysaccharides, proteins, and peptides in biomedical applications, most notably in drug delivery and wound healing. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current research on the extraction, processing and pharmaceutical valorization of these biopolymers, with a focus on their structural and functional properties that allow these materials to be engineered into nanocarriers, hydrogels, scaffolds, and smart composites. Key fabrication strategies such as ionic gelation, desolvation, and 3D bioprinting are critically examined for their role in drug encapsulation, release modulation, and scaffold design for regenerative therapies. The review also covers preclinical validation, scale-up challenges, and relevant regulatory frameworks, offering a practical roadmap from sustainable sourcing to clinical application. Special attention is given to emerging technologies, including stimuli-responsive biomaterials and biosensor-integrated wound dressings, as well as to the ethical and environmental implications of marine biopolymer sourcing. By integrating materials science, pharmaceutical technology and regulatory insight, this review aims to provide a multidisciplinary perspective for researchers and industrial stakeholders seeking sustainable and multifunctional pharmaceutical platforms for precision medicine and regenerative therapeutics. Full article

Osteoarthritis and metastatic bone cancers create pathological oxidative environments characterized by elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS impair bone regeneration by degrading the scaffold and suppressing mineralization. To address these challenges, we fabricated thermoresponsive scaffolds based on poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) incorporating in situ-grown nanohydroxyapatite on graphene oxide nanoscrolls (nHA-GONS) using stereolithography (SLA). Three scaffold formulations were studied: pure PNIPAAm (PNP), PNIPAAm with 5 wt.% nHA-GONS (P5G), and PNIPAAm with 5 wt.% nHA-GONS reinforced with polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres (PN5GP). Each scaffold was evaluated for (i) swelling and lower critical solution temperature (LCST) using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); (ii) oxidative degradation assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mass loss, and antioxidant assays; and (iii) mineralization and morphology via immersion in simulated body fluid followed by microscopy. The PN5GP and P5G scaffolds demonstrated reversible swelling, sustained antioxidant activity, and enhanced calcium deposition, which enable redox stability and mineralization under oxidative environments, critical for scaffold functionality in bone repair. PNP scaffolds exhibited copper accumulation, while PN5GP suffered from accelerated mass loss driven by the PCL phase. These findings identify the P5G formulation as a promising scaffold. This study introduces a quantitative framework that enables the predictive design of oxidation-resilient scaffolds. Full article

Background/Objectives: Gallic acid, a natural phenolic compound, was used as a crosslinking agent to achieve protein–polyphenol conjugation under alkaline conditions, presenting an innovative approach to stabilize gelatin. Methods: The formulated inks were evaluated for their rheological properties and 3D printing performance. Once the scaffolds were printed, physicochemical properties were assessed by color changes and FTIR. Additionally, three different post-processing methods were studied to avoid toxicity: incubation in PBS, incubation in NaOH followed by PBS neutralization, and incubation in HCl followed by PBS neutralization. Results: The inks exhibited shear-thinning behavior with self-supporting capacity after extrusion, indicating their suitability for use as inks in 3D printing. After printing, changes in color and in the amide I band/amide II band ratio were observed due to alkaline oxidation, confirming the gelatin crosslinking. Among the tested treatments, incubation in PBS or NaOH followed by neutralizing with PBS proved to be the most suitable for obtaining cytocompatible scaffolds. The mechanical properties demonstrated the suitability of the proposed crosslinking systems for creating scaffolds. Conclusions: This strategy confirms that gallic acid-mediated crosslinking under alkaline conditions enables the fabrication of cytocompatible and mechanically stable gelatin-based scaffolds, making them suitable for tissue engineering. Full article

Since the mid-19th century, researchers have explored the potential of bio-based polymeric materials for diverse applications, with particular promise in medicine. This review provides a focused and detailed examination of natural and synthetic biopolymers relevant to tissue engineering and biomedical applications. It emphasizes the structural diversity, functional characteristics, and processing strategies of major classes of biopolymers, including polysaccharides (e.g., hyaluronic acid, alginate, chitosan, bacterial cellulose) and proteins (e.g., collagen, silk fibroin, albumin), as well as synthetic biodegradable polymers such as polycaprolactone, polylactic acid, and polyhydroxybutyrate. The central aim of this manuscript is to elucidate how intrinsic properties—such as molecular weight, crystallinity, water retention, and bioactivity—affect the performance of biopolymers in biomedical contexts, particularly in drug delivery, wound healing, and scaffold-based tissue regeneration. This review also highlights recent advancements in polymer functionalization, composite formation, and fabrication techniques (e.g., electrospinning, bioprinting), which have expanded the application potential of these materials. By offering a comparative analysis of structure–property–function relationships across a diverse range of biopolymers, this review provides a comprehensive reference for selecting and engineering materials tailored to specific biomedical challenges. It also identifies key limitations, such as production scalability and mechanical performance, and suggests future directions for developing clinically viable and environmentally sustainable biomaterial platforms. Full article

Hydrogels have emerged as multifunctional biomaterials in cardiac surgery, offering promising solutions for myocardial regeneration, adhesion prevention, valve engineering, and localized drug and gene delivery. Their high water content, biocompatibility, and mechanical tunability enable close emulation of the cardiac extracellular matrix, supporting cellular viability and integration under dynamic physiological conditions. In myocardial repair, injectable and patch-forming hydrogels have been shown to be effective in reducing infarct size, promoting angiogenesis, and preserving contractile function. Hydrogel coatings and films have been designed as adhesion barriers to minimize pericardial adhesions after cardiotomy and improve reoperative safety. In heart valve and patch engineering, hydrogels contribute to scaffold design by providing bio-instructive, mechanically resilient, and printable matrices that are compatible with 3D fabrication. Furthermore, hydrogels serve as localized delivery platforms for small molecules, proteins, and nucleic acids, enabling sustained or stimuli-responsive release while minimizing systemic toxicity. Despite these advances, challenges such as mechanical durability, immune compatibility, and translational scalability persist. Ongoing innovations in smart polymer chemistry, hybrid composite design, and patient-specific manufacturing are addressing these limitations. This review aims to provide an integrated perspective on the application of hydrogels in cardiac surgery. The relevant literature was identified through a narrative search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar. Taken together, hydrogels offer a uniquely versatile and clinically translatable platform for addressing the multifaceted challenges of cardiac surgery. Hydrogels are poised to redefine clinical strategies in cardiac surgery by enabling tailored, bioresponsive, and functionally integrated therapies. Full article

In recent years, with the rapid advancement of 3D printing technology, its applications have expanded across numerous fields. Notably, the fabrication of scaffolds using 3D printing has emerged as a major research focus. Researchers are investigating the properties of various printing materials and tailoring their uses for specific applications. This article reviews the characteristics and applications of different biomaterials printed by 3D technology, such as gelatin, sodium alginate, and starch, highlighting their contributions to the expanding field of 3D-printed biomaterials. Through the comparison in this review, it can be observed that the starch scaffold not only has a lower price but also can be modified to achieve multifunctionality, better meeting the performance requirements in more fields. Full article

Recent advancements in polymer science have catalyzed a transformative shift in biomedical engineering, particularly through the development of biodegradable and smart polymers. This review explores the evolution, functionality, and application of these materials in areas such as tissue scaffolding, cardiovascular occluders, and controlled drug delivery systems. Emphasis is placed on shape-memory polymers (SMPs), conductive polymers, and polymer-based composites that combine tunable degradation, mechanical strength, and bioactivity. The synergy between natural and synthetic polymers—augmented by nanotechnology and additive manufacturing—enables the creation of intelligent scaffolds and implantable devices tailored for specific clinical needs. Key fabrication methods, including electrospinning, freeze-drying, and emulsion-based techniques, are discussed in relation to pore structure and functionalization strategies. Finally, the review highlights emerging trends, including ionic doping, 3D printing, and multifunctional nanocarriers, outlining their roles in the future of regenerative medicine and personalized therapeutics. Full article

Keratin, a fibrous structural protein, has been employed as a biomaterial for hemostasis and tissue repair due to its structural stability, mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. While extensive research has focused on developing scaffolds using keratin extracted from various sources, no studies to date have explored the use of keratin derived from human nail clippings. In this study, keratin was extracted from human nail clippings using the Shindai method and used to fabricate and compare two types of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering via the freeze-drying method. The first scaffold consisted of keratin combined with gelatin (KG), while the second combined keratin, gelatin, and hydroxyapatite (HAp) (KGH), the latter synthesized from blood cockle clam shells using the wet precipitation method. Physicochemical characterization and surface morphology analysis of keratin and both scaffolds showed promising results. Tensile strength testing revealed a significant difference in Young’s modulus. The KG scaffold exhibited higher porosity, water uptake, and water retention capacity compared to the KGH scaffold. In vitro biocompatibility studies revealed that the KGH scaffold supported higher cell proliferation compared to the KG scaffold. This study demonstrates the potential of using human nail-derived keratin in composite scaffold fabrication and serves as a foundation for future research on this novel biomaterial source. Full article