Polymers for tissue engineering, medical devices, and regenerative medicine. Concise general review of recent studies

Recent advance in preparation of lignin nanoparticles and their medical applications: A review

BACKGROUND

Lignin has attracted a lot of attention because it is non-toxic, renewable and biodegradable. Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) have high specific surface area and specific surface charges. It provides LNPs with good antibacterial and antioxidant properties. LNPs preparation has become clear, however, the application remains in the early stages.

PURPOSE

A review centric research has been conducted, reviewing existing literature to accomplish a basic understanding of the medical applications of LNPs.

METHODS

Initially, we extensively counseled the heterogeneity of lignin from various sources. The size and morphology of LNPs from different preparation process were then discussed. Subsequently, we focused on the potential medical applications of LNPs, including drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering, and antibacterial agents. Lastly, we explained the significance of LNPs in terms of antibacterial, antioxidant and biocompatibility, especially highlighting the need for an integrated framework to understand a diverse range of medical applications of LNPs.

RESULTS

We outlined the chemical structure of different type of lignin, and highlighted the advanced methods for lignin nanoparticles preparation. Moreover, we provided an in-depth review of the potential applications of lignin nanoparticles in various medical fields, especially in drug carriers, wound dressings, tissue engineering components, and antimicrobial agents.

CONCLUSION

This review provides a detailed overview on the current state and progression of lignin nanoparticles for medical applications.

Unraveling and Harnessing the Immune Response at the Cell-Biomaterial Interface for Tissue Engineering Purposes

Biomaterials are defined as "engineered materials" and include a range of natural and synthetic products, designed for their introduction into and interaction with living tissues. Biomaterials are considered prominent tools in regenerative medicine that support the restoration of tissue defects and retain physiologic functionality. Although commonly used in the medical field, these constructs are inherently foreign toward the host and induce an immune response at the material-tissue interface, defined as the foreign body response (FBR). A strong connection between the foreign body response and tissue regeneration is suggested, in which an appropriate amount of immune response and macrophage polarization is necessary to trigger autologous tissue formation. Recent developments in this field have led to the characterization of immunomodulatory traits that optimizes bioactivity, the integration of biomaterials and determines the fate of tissue regeneration. This review addresses a variety of aspects that are involved in steering the inflammatory response, including immune cell interactions, physical characteristics, biochemical cues, and metabolomics. Harnessing the advancing knowledge of the FBR allows for the optimization of biomaterial-based implants, aiming to prevent damage of the implant, improve natural regeneration, and provide the tools for an efficient and successful in vivo implantation.

Fabrication of ECM Mimicking Bioactive Scaffold: A Regenerative Approach for MSC Mediated Applications

Biomaterials are feasible resources that aids to replace damaged structures in our bodies. The most biologically active flora is Aloe vera which has many bioactive compounds that are anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and have ECM mimicking protein content which helps in the healing of wounds and also acts as an ECM factor for stem cell homing and differentiation. The Aloe vera containing 10 w/v of gelatin was lyophilized. Scaffolds had sharper morphology, greater hydrophilic properties, and a Young's modulus of 6.28 MPa and 15.9 MPa of higher tensile strength are desirable. In tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, biologically active scaffolds have been producing hopeful outcomes in both restoration and replacement, respectively. The objective of the present investigation is to test the idea that incorporating gelatin to Aloe vera scaffolds might enhance their structure, good biocompatibility, and possibly even bioactivity. The SEM picture of the composite scaffold revealed pore walls. The scaffolds had linked pores with diameters ranging from 93 to 296 μm. Aloe vera and the matrix interact well, according to the FTIR study, which could lead to a reduction in the amount of water-binding sites and a reduction in the material's ability to absorb water. Aloe vera with 10% gelatin (AV/G) scaffold was investigated for different biological reactions of human gingival tissue mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in terms of cell proliferation, morphology, and cell migration. The results demonstrated the potential of the AV/G scaffold as a biomaterial that offers new insight in the field of tissue engineering.

Biomimetic Growth of Hydroxyapatite in Hybrid Polycaprolactone/Graphene Oxide Ultra-Porous Scaffolds

This paper reports the preparation and characterization of hybrid scaffolds composed of polycaprolactone (PCL) and different graphene oxide (GO) amounts, intending to incorporate the intrinsic characteristics of their constituents, such as bioactivity and biocidal effect. These materials were fabricated by a solvent-casting/particulate leaching technique showing a bimodal porosity (macro and micro) that was around 90%. The highly interconnected scaffolds were immersed in a simulated body fluid, promoting the growth of a hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer, making them ideal candidates for bone tissue engineering. The growth kinetics of the HAp layer was influenced by the GO content, a remarkable result. Furthermore, as expected, the addition of GO neither significantly improves nor reduces the compressive modulus of PCL scaffolds. The thermal behavior of composites was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, showing an increase in crystallinity as the addition of GO raised, which implies that GO nanosheets can act as seeds to induce the crystallization of PCL. The improved bioactivity was demonstrated by the deposition of an HAp layer on the surface of the scaffold with GO, especially with a 0.1% GO content.

Cryostructuring of Polymeric Systems: 63. † Synthesis of Two Chemically Tanned Gelatin-Based Cryostructurates and Evaluation of Their Potential as Scaffolds for Culturing of Mammalian Cells

Various gelatin-containing gel materials are used as scaffolds for animal and human cell culturing within the fields of cell technologies and tissue engineering. Cryostructuring is a promising technique for the preparation of efficient macroporous scaffolds in biomedical applications. In the current study, two new gelatin-based cryostructurates were synthesized, their physicochemical properties and microstructure were evaluated, and their ability to serve as biocompatible scaffolds for mammalian cells culturing was tested. The preparation procedure included the dissolution of Type A gelatin in water, the addition of urea to inhibit self-gelation, the freezing of such a solution, ice sublimation in vacuo, and urea extraction with ethanol from the freeze-dried matter followed by its cross-linking in an ethanol medium with either carbodiimide or glyoxal. It was shown that in the former case, a denser cross-linked polymer phase was formed, while in the latter case, the macropores in the resultant biopolymer material were wider. The subsequent biotesting of these scaffolds demonstrated their biocompatibility for human mesenchymal stromal cells and HepG2 cells during subcutaneous implantation in rats. Albumin secretion and urea synthesis by HepG2 cells confirmed the possibility of using gelatin cryostructurates for liver tissue engineering.

Cryostructuring of Polymeric Systems: 62 Preparation and Characterization of Alginate/Chondroitin Sulfate Cryostructurates Loaded with Antimicrobial Substances

Targeted drug release is a significant research focus in the development of drug delivery systems and involves a biocompatible polymeric carrier and certain medicines. Cryostructuring is a suitable approach for the preparation of efficient macroporous carriers for such drug delivery systems. In the current study, the cryogenically structured carriers based on alginate/chondroitin sulfate mixtures were prepared and their physicochemical properties and their ability to absorb/release the bactericides were evaluated. The swelling parameters of the polysaccharide matrix, the amount of the tightly bound water in the polymer and the sulfur content were measured. In addition, FTIR and UV spectroscopy, optical and scanning microscopy, as well as a standard disk diffusion method for determining antibacterial activity were used. It was shown that alginate/chondroitin sulfate concentration and their ratios were significant factors influencing the swelling properties and the porosity of the resultant cryostructurates. It was demonstrated that the presence of chondroitin sulfate in the composition of a polymeric matrix slowed down the release of the aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin. In the case of the NH₂-free bactericide, dioxidine, the release was almost independent of the presence of chondroitin sulfate. This trend was also registered for the antibacterial activity tests against the Escherichia coli bacteria, when examining the drug-loaded biopolymeric carriers.

Vancomycin Containing PDLLA and PLGA/β-TCP Inhibit Biofilm Formation but Do Not Stimulate Osteogenic Transformation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Aims

Chronic osteomyelitis, including implant-related prosthetic joint infection, is extremely difficult to cure. We develop vancomycin containing release systems from poly(d,l-lactide) (PDLLA) and poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) composites with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) to treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis. We ask whether vancomycin containing PDLLA/β-TCP and PLGA/β-TCP composites will prevent early biofilm formation, allow cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, and stimulate osteogenic signaling molecules in the absence of an osteogenic medium.

Methods

Composites were produced and characterized with scanning electron microscopy. In vitro vancomycin release was assessed for 6 weeks. Biofilm prevention was calculated by crystal violet staining. Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and osteosarcoma cell (SaOS-2) proliferation and differentiation were assessed with water soluble tetrazolium salt and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction defined osteogenic signaling molecules for hBM-MSCs.

Results

Totally, 3.1 ± 0.2 mg and 3.4 ± 0.4 mg vancomycin released from PDLLA/β-TCP and the PLGA/β-TCP composites, respectively, and inhibited early biofilm formation. hBM-MSCs and SaOS-2 cells proliferated on the composites and stimulated ALP activity of cells. Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and SRY-Box transcription Factor 9 (SOX9) expressions were, however, lower with composites when compared with control.

Conclusion

Vancomycin containing PDLLA/β-TCP and PLGA/β-TCP composites inhibited early biofilm formation and proliferated and differentiated hBM-MSCs and SaOS-2 cells, but osteogenesis-related RUNX2 and SOX9 transcription factors were not strongly expressed in the absence of an osteogenic medium for 14 days.

Poly(ethylene-Co-vinyl Alcohol)/Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposite: Preparation and Characterization of Properties for Potential Use in Bone Tissue Engineering

A series of poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol)/titanium dioxide (PEVAL/TiO2) nanocomposites containing 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 wt% TiO2 were prepared by the solvent casting method. These prepared hybrid materials were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The pores and their interconnections inside these nanocomposites were created using naphthalene microparticles used as a porogen after having been extracted by sublimation under a high vacuum at temperatures slightly below the glass transition temperature. A cellular activity test of these hybrid materials was performed on human gingival fibroblast cells (HGFs) in accordance with ISO 10993-5 and ISO 10993-12 standards. The bioviability (cell viability) of HGFs was evaluated after 1, 4 and 7 days using Alamar Blue®. The results were increased cell activity throughout the different culture times and a significant increase in cell activity in all samples from Day 1 to Day 7, and all systems tested showed significantly higher cell viability than the control group on Day 7 (p < 0.002). The adhesion of HGFs to the scaffolds studied by SEM showed that HGFs were successfully cultured on all types of scaffolds.

Design of biointerfaces composed of soft materials using controlled radical polymerizations

Soft interface materials have an immense potential for the improvement of biointerfaces, which are the interface of biological and artificially designed materials. Controlling the chemical and physical structures of the interfaces at the nanometer level plays an important role in understanding the mechanism of the functioning and its applications. Controlled radical polymerization (CRP) techniques, including atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization, have been developed in the field of precision polymer chemistry. It allows the formation of well-defined surfaces such as densely packed polymer brushes and self-assembled nanostructures of block copolymers. More recently, a novel technique to prepare polymers containing biomolecules, called biohybrids, has also been developed, which is a consequence of the advancement of CRP so as to proceed in an aqueous media with oxygen. This review article summarizes recent advances in CRP for the design of biointerfaces.

A Review of the Use of Microparticles for Cartilage Tissue Engineering

Tissue and organ failure has induced immense economic and healthcare concerns across the world. Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary biomedical approach which aims to address the issues intrinsic to organ donation by providing an alternative strategy to tissue and organ transplantation. This review is specifically focused on cartilage tissue. Cartilage defects cannot readily regenerate, and thus research into tissue engineering approaches is relevant as a potential treatment option. Cells, scaffolds, and growth factors are three components that can be utilized to regenerate new tissue, and in particular recent advances in microparticle technology have excellent potential to revolutionize cartilage tissue regeneration. First, microspheres can be used for drug delivery by injecting them into the cartilage tissue or joint space to reduce pain and stimulate regeneration. They can also be used as controlled release systems within tissue engineering constructs. Additionally, microcarriers can act as a surface for stem cells or chondrocytes to adhere to and expand, generating large amounts of cells, which are necessary for clinically relevant cell therapies. Finally, a newer application of microparticles is to form them together into granular hydrogels to act as scaffolds for tissue engineering or to use in bioprinting. Tissue engineering has the potential to revolutionize the space of cartilage regeneration, but additional research is needed to allow for clinical translation. Microparticles are a key enabling technology in this regard.

Nonmulberry silk proteins: multipurpose ingredient in bio-functional assembly

The emerging field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicines utilising artificial polymers is facing many problems. Despite having mechanical stability, non-toxicity and biodegradability, most of them lack cytocompatibility and biocompatibility. Natural polymers (such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, fibrin, fibroin, and others), including blends, are introduced to the field to solve some of the relevant issues. Another natural biopolymer: silkworm silk gained special attention primarily due to its specific biophysical, biochemical, and material properties, worldwide availability, and cost-effectiveness. Silk proteins, namely fibroin and sericin extracted from domesticated mulberry silkwormBombyx mori, are studied extensively in the last few decades for tissue engineering. Wild nonmulberry silkworm species, originated from India and other parts of the world, also produce silk proteins with variations in their nature and properties. Among the nonmulberry silkworm species,Antheraea mylitta(Indian Tropical Tasar),A. assamensis/A. assama(Indian Muga), andSamia ricini/Philosamia ricini(Indian Eri), along withA. pernyi(Chinese temperate Oak Tasar/Tussah) andA. yamamai(Japanese Oak Tasar) exhibit inherent tripeptide motifs of arginyl glycyl aspartic acid in their fibroin amino acid sequences, which support their candidacy as the potential biomaterials. Similarly, sericin isolated from such wild species delivers unique properties and is used as anti-apoptotic and growth-inducing factors in regenerative medicines. Other characteristics such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-inflammatory nature make it suitable for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine based applications. A diverse range of matrices, including but not limited to nano-micro scale structures, nanofibres, thin films, hydrogels, and porous scaffolds, are prepared from the silk proteins (fibroins and sericins) for biomedical and tissue engineering research. This review aims to represent the progress made in medical and non-medical applications in the last couple of years and depict the present status of the investigations on Indian nonmulberry silk-based matrices as a particular reference due to its remarkable potentiality of regeneration of different types of tissues. It also discusses the future perspective in tissue engineering and regenerative medicines in the context of developing cutting-edge techniques such as 3D printing/bioprinting, microfluidics, organ-on-a-chip, and other electronics, optical and thermal property-based applications.

Effects of Processing Conditions and Plasticizing-Reinforcing Modification on the Crystallization and Physical Properties of PLA Films

The polylactic acid (PLA) resin Ingeo 4032D was selected as the research object. Epoxy soybean oil (ESO) and zeolite (3A molecular sieve) were used as plasticizer and reinforcing filler, respectively, for PLA blend modification. The mixture was granulated in an extruder and then blown to obtain films under different conditions to determine the optimum processing temperatures and screw rotation. Then, the thermal behaviour, crystallinity, optical transparency, micro phase structure and physical properties of the film were investigated. The results showed that with increasing zeolite content, the crystallization behaviour of PLA changed, and the haze of the film increased from 5% to 40% compared to the pure PLA film. Zeolite and ESO dispersed in the PLA matrix played a role in toughening and strengthening. The PLA/8 wt% zeolite/3 wt% ESO film had the highest longitudinal tensile strength at 77 MPa. The PLA/2 wt% zeolite/3 wt% ESO film had the highest longitudinal elongation at 13%. The physical properties depended heavily on the dispersion of zeolite and ESO in the matrix.

Tuning the response of fluid filled hydrogel core-shell structures

Hydrogels are hydrophilic polymer networks that swell upon submersion in water. Thanks to their bio-compatibility, compliance, and ability to undergo large deformations, hydrogels can be used in a wide variety of applications such as in situ sensors for measuring cell-generated forces and drug delivery vehicles. In this work we investigate the equilibrium mechanical responses that can be achieved with hydrogel-based shells filled with a liquid core. Two types of gel shell geometries are considered - a cylinder and a spherical shell. Each shell is filled with either water or oil and subjected to compressive loading. We illustrate the influence of the shell geometry and the core composition on the mechanical response of the structure. We find that all core-shell structures stiffen under increasing compressive loading due to the load-induced expulsion of water molecules from the hydrogel shell. Furthermore, we show that cylindrical core-shell configurations are stiffer then their spherical equivalents. Interestingly, we demonstrate that the compression of a core-shell structure with an aqueous core leads to the transportation of water molecules from the core into the hydrogel. These results will guide the design of novel core-shell structures with tunable properties and mechanical responses.

A Novel 89Zr-labeled DDS Device Utilizing Human IgG Variant (scFv): "Lactosome" Nanoparticle-Based Theranostics for PET Imaging and Targeted Therapy

“Theranostics,” a new concept of medical advances featuring a fusion of therapeutic and diagnostic systems, provides promising prospects in personalized medicine, especially cancer. The theranostics system comprises a novel ⁸⁹Zr-labeled drug delivery system (DDS), derived from the novel biodegradable polymeric micelle, “Lactosome” nanoparticles conjugated with specific shortened IgG variant, and aims to successfully deliver therapeutically effective molecules, such as the apoptosis-inducing small interfering RNA (siRNA) intracellularly while offering simultaneous tumor visualization via PET imaging. A 27 kDa-human single chain variable fragment (scFv) of IgG to establish clinically applicable PET imaging and theranostics in cancer medicine was fabricated to target mesothelin (MSLN), a 40 kDa-differentiation-related cell surface glycoprotein antigen, which is frequently and highly expressed by malignant tumors. This system coupled with the cell penetrating peptide (CPP)-modified and photosensitizer (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20-tetrakis (4-aminophenyl) porphyrin (TPP))-loaded Lactosome particles for photochemical internalized (PCI) driven intracellular siRNA delivery and the combination of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers a promising nano-theranostic-based cancer therapy via its targeted apoptosis-inducing feature. This review focuses on the combined advances in nanotechnology and material sciences utilizing the “⁸⁹Zr-labeled CPP and TPP-loaded Lactosome particles” and future directions based on important milestones and recent developments in this platform.

Cryostructuring of Polymeric Systems. 57. Spongy Wide-Porous Cryogels Based on the Proteins of Blood Serum: Preparation, Properties and Application as the Carriers of Peptide Bioregulators

Wide-pore proteinaceous freeze-thaw spongy gels were synthesized via the cryotropic gelation technique using the bovine blood serum or its diluted solutions as the protein-containing precursors. The feed systems also included the denaturant (urea) and the thiol-reductant (cysteine). The gel-fraction yield decreased and the swelling degree of the walls of macropores in such heterophase matrices increased with decreasing the initial protein concentration. The optimum freezing temperature was found to be within a rather narrow range from -15 to -20 °C. In this case, the average size of the macropores in the resultant cryogels was 90-110 μm. The suitability of such soft wide-pore gel materials for the application as the carriers of peptide bioregulators was demonstrated in the in vitro experiments, when the posterior segments of the Pleurodeles waltl adult newts' eyes were used as a model biological target. It was shown that a statistically reliable protective effect on the state of the sclera, vascular membrane and retinal pigment epithelium, as well as on the viability of fibroblasts, was inherent in the proteinaceous cryogels loaded with the peptide bioregulator (Viophtan-5™) isolated from the bovine eye sclera.

The effect of hydrogen bonding on diffusion and permeability in UV-cured Polyacrylate-based networks for controlled release

Polyacrylates are important polymers widely used in pharmaceutical industry such as drug coatings due to their low cost, processability and ease of functionalisation. Chemical functionalities (e.g. H-bonding) can be easily included to modulate the transport of low molecular weight drug-like entities through the network. Understanding how such microscopic structural modifications determine macroscopic diffusion is critical for designing next generation responsive polymers. In this study pulsed field gradient (PFG) ¹H NMR measurements of the self-diffusion of a dye molecule (Eosin Y) in a series of polyacrylate networks with differing H-bonding strength were undertaken; it was found that the diffusion of Eosin Y is significantly reduced in networks with H-bonding. Detailed analyses by ¹H NMR relaxometry and double quantum (DQ) NMR show that H-bonding can also reduce polymer chain mobility. Furthermore, DSC thermoporometry showed a significant increase in the average network mesh size potentially due to the pre-organization of H-bonding containing monomer during network curing. By introducing the H-bonding disrupter, LiClO₄, it was found that the diffusivity of solute becomes positively correlated to the average mesh size across the series of networks. Hence, a modified diffusion model based on hydrodynamic theory is proposed to separate the direct (solute-network) H-bonding contribution to solute diffusion from the indirect contribution arising from monomer pre-ordering induced mesh size reduction. Finally, it is shown that the same direct and indirect contributions to microscopic diffusivity, arising from the H-bond strength of the co-monomers, also contribute significantly to the macroscopic membrane permeability which is similarly subject to H-bond disruption.

Tough and Three-Dimensional-Printable Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate)-Silica Composite Elastomer with Antiplatelet Adhesion Property

Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) has attracted attention as a biocompatible polymer that is used as an antithrombotic coating agent for medical devices, such as during artificial heart and lung fabrication. However, PMEA is a viscous liquid polymer with low T_g, and its physical strength is poor even if a cross-linker is used, so it is difficult to make tough and freestanding objects from it. Here, we design and fabricate a biocompatible elastomer made of tough, self-supporting PMEA-silica composites. The toughness of the composite elastomer increases as a function of silica particle filling, and its stress at break is improved from 0.3 to 6.7 MPa. The fracture energy of the composite elastomer with 39.5 vol % silica particles is up to 15 times higher than that of the cross-linked PMEA with no silica particles and the material demonstrates stress-strain behavior that is similar to that of biological soft tissue, which exhibits nonlinear elasticity. In addition, the composite elastomer shows the potential to be an antithrombotic property, while the results of the platelet adhesion test of the composite elastomer show that the number of adhered platelets is not significantly affected by the silica addition. As the composite elastomer can be rapidly three-dimensional-printed into complex geometries with high-resolution features, it is expected to contribute to the development of medical devices from readily available materials.

Cryostructuring of Polymeric Systems. 55. Retrospective View on the More than 40 Years of Studies Performed in the A.N.Nesmeyanov Institute of Organoelement Compounds with Respect of the Cryostructuring Processes in Polymeric Systems

The processes of cryostructuring in polymeric systems, the techniques of the preparation of diverse cryogels and cryostructurates, the physico-chemical mechanisms of their formation, and the applied potential of these advanced polymer materials are all of high scientific and practical interest in many countries. This review article describes and discusses the results of more than 40 years of studies in this field performed by the researchers from the A.N.Nesmeyanov Institute of Organoelement Compounds, Russian Academy of Sciences-one of the key centers, where such investigations are carried out. The review includes brief historical information, the description of the main effects and trends characteristic of the cryostructuring processes, the data on the morphological specifics inherent in the polymeric cryogels and cryostructurates, and examples of their implementation for solving certain applied tasks.

Preparation and Characterization of Poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol)/poly(ε-caprolactone) Blend for Bioscaffolding Applications

In order to improve the cell adhesion on poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds, poly(ethylene-co-vinyl alcohol) (E-VAL) which has hydroxyl groups capable of developing hydrogen bonds with celling was blended with this polymer. To reach this goal, a series of E-VAL/PCL blends with different compositions were prepared by the solvent casting method. The miscibility of the polymer blend was proved by differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectrometry. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of the polymer blends were assessed in their wet state by dynamic mechanical analysis. The surfaces wettability of blends and their components were examined through static contact angle measurements. The pore interconnections in the resulted scaffolds were achieved by the incorporation of naphthalene microparticles which were used as porogen and then removed in its gas state by sublimation under reduced pressure. The presence of pores interconnected inside the polymeric materials and their surface morphologies was examined by scanning electron microscopy. The in-vitro cytotoxicity and cell adhesion on the prepared materials were examined by an MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay.

Potential Applications of Magnesium-Based Polymeric Nanocomposites Obtained by Electrospinning Technique

In the last few decades, the development of new electrospun materials with different morphologies and advanced multifunctional properties are strongly consolidated. There are several reviews that describe the processing, use and characterization of electrospun nanocomposites, however, based on our knowledge, no review on electrospun nanocomposites reinforced with nanoparticles (NPs) based on magnesium, Mg-based NPs, are reported. Therefore, in the present review, we focus attention on the fabrication of these promising electrospun materials and their potential applications. Firstly, the electrospinning technique and its main processing window-parameters are described, as well as some post-processing methods used to obtain Mg-based materials. Then, the applications of Mg-based electrospun nanocomposites in different fields are pointed out, thus taking into account the current trend in developing inorganic-organic nanocomposites to gradually satisfy the challenges that the industry generates. Mg-based electrospun nanocomposites are becoming an attractive field of research for environmental remediation (waste-water cleaning and air filtration) as well as for novel technical textiles. However, the mayor application of Mg-based electrospun materials is in the biomedical field, as pointed out. Therefore, this review aims to clarify the tendency in using electrospinning technique and Mg-based nanoparticles to huge development at industrial level in the near future.

A sugar-lectin rich interface between soft tissue and the stiff byssus of Atrina pectinata

Maintaining durable adhesion between soft tissues and relatively hard implant materials is one of the most elusive technological difficulties in bionic devices due to contact damage between mechanically mismatched materials. Although there are many examples of coexistence of soft and hard tissues in living organisms, relatively little is known about the mechanisms used to overcome mechanical mismatches occurring at the interface between soft and hard tissues. Among the various creatures possessing mechanically mismatched biological tissues, Atrina pectinata is a good model system where the interface between stiff byssal threads and soft tissues is distributed all over an extended organ. In this study, we found a wide distribution of various types of carbohydrates and lectins at the mechanically mismatched interface of the byssus of Atrina using histological methods and proteomics. Reversible and robust interactions between the carbohydrate and lectins at the interface would play a major role in mitigating the contact damage at the Atrina interface. Based on these results, the adhesion between sugar and lectin would be useful to overcome a wide range of contact damage observed in research studies on bionic devices.

Interaction of different cell types with magnesium modified by plasma electrolytic oxidation

Magnesium (Mg) is a material widely used in industrial applications due to its low weight, ductility, and excellent mechanical properties. For non-permanent implants, Mg is particularly well-suited because of its biodegradability, while its degradation products are not harmful. However, Mg is chemically reactive, and cytotoxic hydrogen gas is released as part of the degradation. This adverse degradation can be tuned using plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). With PEO, a surface layer of MgO/Mg(OH)₂ is deposited on the surface of Mg in a controlled way. The electrolytes used during PEO influence the surface's chemistry and topography and thus expectedly the biological response of adhered cells. In this study, thin samples of commercial pure of Mg (c.p Mg) were modified by PEO guided by different electrolytes, and the biological activity was assessed on vascular cells, immune cells, and repair cells (adipose tissue-derived stromal cells, ASCs). Vascular cells were more vulnerable than ASCs for compounds released by surface-coated Mg. All surface coatings supported the proliferation of adhered ASC. Released compounds from surface-coated Mg delayed but did not block in vitro wound closure of fibroblasts monolayers. Preformed endothelial tubes were vulnerable for released compounds, while their supporting ASC was not. We conclude that PEO-based surface-coating of Mg supports adhesion and future delivery of therapeutic vascular repair cells such as ASC, but that the observed vulnerability of vascular cells for coated Mg components warrants investigations in vivo.

Tough and Low Friction Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogels Loaded with Anti-inflammatories for Cartilage Replacement

The development of new materials that mimic cartilage and its function is an unmet need that will allow replacing the damaged parts of the joints, instead of the whole joint. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels have raised special interest for this application due to their biocompatibility, high swelling capacity and chemical stability. In this work, the effect of post-processing treatments (annealing, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and gamma-radiation) on the performance of PVA gels obtained by cast-drying was investigated and, their ability to be used as delivery vehicles of the anti-inflammatories diclofenac or ketorolac was evaluated. HHP damaged the hydrogels, breaking some bonds in the polymeric matrix, and therefore led to poor mechanical and tribological properties. The remaining treatments, in general, improved the performance of the materials, increasing their crystallinity. Annealing at 150 °C generated the best mechanical and tribological results: higher resistance to compressive and tensile loads, lower friction coefficients and ability to support higher loads in sliding movement. This material was loaded with the anti-inflammatories, both without and with vitamin E (Vit.E) or Vit.E + cetalkonium chloride (CKC). Vit.E + CKC helped to control the release of the drugs which occurred in 24 h. The material did not induce irritability or cytotoxicity and, therefore, shows high potential to be used in cartilage replacement with a therapeutic effect in the immediate postoperative period.

Coupled flow and deformation fields due to a line load on a poroelastic half space: effect of surface stress and surface bending

In the past decade, many experiments have indicated that the surfaces of soft elastic solids can resist deformation by surface stresses. A common soft elastic solid is a hydrogel which consists of a polymer network swollen in water. Although experiments suggest that solvent flow in gels can be affected by surface stress, there is no theoretical analysis on this subject. Here we study the solvent flow near a line load acting on a linear poroelastic half space. The surface of this half space resists deformation by a constant, isotropic surface stress. It can also resist deformation by surface bending. The time-dependent displacement, stress and flow fields are determined using transform methods. Our solution indicates that the stress field underneath the line load is completely regularized by surface bending-it is bounded and continuous. For small surface bending stiffness, the line force is balanced by surface stresses; these forces form what is commonly known as 'Neumann's triangle'. We show that surface stress reduces local pore pressure and inhibits solvent flow. We use our line load solution to simulate the relaxation of the peak which is formed by applying and then removing a line force on the poroelastic half space.

A Comprehensive Review on Bio-Nanomaterials for Medical Implants and Feasibility Studies on Fabrication of Such Implants by Additive Manufacturing Technique

Nanomaterials have allowed significant breakthroughs in bio-engineering and medical fields. In the present paper a holistic assessment on diverse biocompatible nanocomposites are studied. Their compatibility with advanced fabrication methods such as additive manufacturing for the design of functional medical implants is also critically reviewed. The significance of nanocomposites and processing techniques is also envisaged comprehensively in regard with the needs and futures of implantable medical device industries.

Synergistic effects of polyaniline and pulsed electromagnetic field to stem cells osteogenic differentiation on polyvinylidene fluoride scaffold

Repairing the lost or damaged mandible is very difficult and time-consuming, so there is a great hope for tissue engineering to accelerate it. At the present study, electrospinning was applied to fabricate polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and PVDF-polyaniline (PANI) composite scaffolds. In addition, extremely low frequency pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) was applied for treating the stem cells derived from dental pulp (DPSCs) when cultured on the nanofibrous scaffolds. Osteoinductive property of the fabricated PVDF, PVDF-PANI scaffold at the presence and absence of the PEMF was investigated by evaluating the common osteogenic differentiation markers in seeded-DPSCs on the scaffold. Results demonstrated that cell attachment, protein adsorption and cells viability were increased when PEMF was applied. In addition, ALP activity, calcium content, osteogenic genes and protein evaluations confirmed that PEMF could significantly increase osteoinductivity of the PVDF while composite with PANI. According to the results, the use of polymers with piezoelectricity and conductivity features plus PEMF exposure has a promising potential to improve the current treatment methods in bone and mandibular defects.

Cellulose-Cyclodextrin Co-Polymer for the Removal of Cyanotoxins on Water Sources

With increasing global water temperatures and nutrient runoff in recent decades, the blooming season of algae lasts longer, resulting in toxin concentrations that exceed safe limits for human consumption and for recreational use. From the different toxins, microcystin-LR has been reported as the main cyanotoxin related to liver cancer, and consequently its abundance in water is constantly monitored. In this work, we report a methodology for decorating cellulose nanofibrils with β-cyclodextrin or with poly(β-cyclodextrin) which were tested for the recovery of microcystin from synthetic water. The adsorption was followed by Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation monitoring (QCM-D), allowing for real-time monitoring of the adsorption behavior. A maximum recovery of 196 mg/g was obtained with the modified by cyclodextrin. Characterization of the modified substrate was confirmed with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM).

Strong and Flexible Composite Solid Polymer Electrolyte Membranes for Li-Ion Batteries

A composite solid polymer electrolyte (CSPE) is studied in this work to alleviate the concerns associated with poor mechanical strength of a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) system composed of poly(ethyleneglycol)diacrylate, an electrolyte lithium bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonamide, and a plasticizer succinonitrile. CSPE is fabricated by incorporating the ingredients of SPE in the macroporous membranes of syndiotactic polystyrene to render flexibility and mechanical robustness with a 6-fold increase in tensile strength over SPE. The data from differential scanning calorimetry and wide-angle X-ray diffraction confirm the amorphous nature of the polymeric domains of SPE that produce high room-temperature ionic conductivity of ∼0.43 mS/cm. The flexible CSPE membranes are used as the electrolyte in Li-ion battery (LIB) half cells in conjunction with lithium iron phosphate as the counter electrode. The use of CSPE helps expand the electrochemical window of the cell to 5 V, indicating strong potential in the fabrication of flexible rechargeable LIBs.

The Preparation and Biomedical Application of Biopolyesters

Biopolyesters represent a large family that can be obtained by polymerization of variable bio-derived hydroxyalkanoic acids. The monomer composition, molecular weight of the biopolyesters can affect the properties and applications of the polyesters. The majority of biopolyesters can either be biosynthesized from natural biofeedstocks or semi-synthesized (biopreparation of monomers followed by the chemical polymerization of the monomers). With the fast development of synthetic biology and biosynthesis techniques, the biosynthesis of unnatural biopolyesters (like lactate containing and aromatic biopolyesters) with improved performance and function has been a tendency. The presence of novel preparation methods, novel monomer composition has also significantly affected the properties, functions and applications of the biopolyesters. Due to the properties of biodegradability and biocompatibility, biopolyesters have great potential in biomedical applications (as implanting or covering biomaterials, drug carriers). Moreover, biopolyesters can be fused with other functional ingredients to achieve novel applications or improved functions. This study summarizes and compares the updated preparation methods of representative biopolyesters, also introduces the current status and future trends of their applications in biomedical fields.

Preparation and characterization of semi-IPNs of polycaprolactone/poly (acrylic acid)/cellulosic nanowhisker as artificial articular cartilage

Cartilage is a semi-solid resilient and smooth elastic connective tissue and upon damage, its repair is almost impossible or occurs with a very slow recovery process. Polycaprolactone (PCL), used as a biocompatible polymer, withholds all required mechanical properties, except suitable cell adhesion due to its hydrophobicity. In order to resolve this issue, we sought to introduce appropriate semi-IPNs into the system to regain its hydrophilicity base on increasing of the hydrophilic polymer. PCL and Cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs) were entrapped in a network of poly (acrylic acid) that had been crosslinked via a novel acrylic-urethane crosslinker. The influential synthetic parameters on the preparation of artificial articular cartilages were investigated based on the Taguchi test design. The prepared CNW, acrylic-urethane crosslinker and semi-IPNs were studied via ¹H NMR, FTIR, SEM, TEM, TGA, water swelling, water contact angle, tensile, and MTT analyses. According to the results, the optimal amount of monomer was about 46%. Incorporation of an optimized amount of CNW, which was 0.5%, improved the mechanical properties of artificial cartilage. After a 30 h time period, semi-IPNs showed the water absorption of about 30%. MTT on days 1, 3 and 5, as well as cell attachment, confirmed the biocompatibility of the semi-IPNs.

Antimicrobial PHAs coatings for solid and porous tantalum implants

Biomaterial-associated infections (BAI) are the major cause of failure of indwelling medical devices. The risk of BAI can end dramatically in the surgical removal of the affected device. Therefore, a major effort must be undertaken to guarantee the permanence of the implant. In this regard, we have developed antimicrobial coatings for tantalum (Ta) implants, using polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) as matrices for carrying an active principle. The dip-coating technique was successfully used for covering solid Ta discs. An original PHA emulsion flow process was developed for the coating of porous Ta structures, specially for the inner surfaces. The complete characterization of the biopolymer coatings, their antibacterial properties, toxicity and biointegration were analyzed. Thus, non-toxic, well-biointegrated homogeneous biopolymer coatings were attained, which showed antibacterial properties. By using biodegradable PHAs, the resulting drug delivery system assured the protection of Ta against bacterial infections for a period of time.

The Effect of Various Plasma Gases on the Shear Bond Strength between Unfilled Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and Veneering Composite Following Artificial Aging

This study investigated the effect of different gaseous plasma surface treatments on the shear bond strength between unfilled polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and veneering composite resin. The study followed ISO 10477 guidelines in preparing, bonding, and testing the samples. Specimens of unfilled PEEK were distributed to one of the following six surface treatment groups: reference, adhesive, argon, nitrogen, oxygen, and air plasmas. After milling, the specimens were wet polished using (P320) polishing discs. Bonding procedures were done according to the manufacturer's instructions using (Opaquer + Dentine), except in the adhesive group (Visio.link + Opaquer + Dentine). Afterwards, thermal cycling for 5000 cycles between 5 and 55 °C in distilled water was conducted. Finally, the shear bond strengths of all groups were calculated, and mode of fracture was determined. Nitrogen surface treatment had the highest mean shear bond strength of 10.04 (±1.84) MPa, while the reference group showed the lowest value of 5.38 (±2.90) MPa. Regarding mode of fracture, all the specimens showed a 100% adhesive failure mode. Plasma surface treatment can be a reliable alternative method to the traditional protocol of bonding veneering composite resin to unfilled PEEK material.

Fabrication of hierarchically porous silk fibroin-bioactive glass composite scaffold via indirect 3D printing: Effect of particle size on physico-mechanical properties and in vitro cellular behavior

In order to regenerate bone defects, bioactive hierarchically scaffolds play a key role due to their multilevel porous structure, high surface area, enhanced nutrient transport and diffusion. In this study, novel hierarchically porous silk fibroin (SF) and silk fibroin-bioactive glass (SF-BG) composite were fabricated with controlled architecture and interconnected structure, by combining indirect three-dimensional (3D) inkjet printing and freeze-drying methods. Further, the effect of 45S5 Bioactive glass particles of different sizes (<100 nm and 6 μm) on mechanical strength and cell behavior was investigated. The results demonstrated that the hierarchical structure in this scaffold was composed of two levels of pores in the order of 500-600 μm and 10-50 μm. The prepared SF-BG composite scaffolds utilized by nano and micro particles possessed mechanical properties with a compressive strength of 0.94 and 1.2 MPa, respectively, in dry conditions. In a wet condition, the hierarchically porous scaffolds did not exhibit any fluctuation after compression load cell and were incredibly flexible, with excellent mechanical stability. The SF-BG composite scaffold with nanoparticles presented a significant 50% increase in attachment of human bone marrow stem cells in comparison with SF and SF-BG scaffold with microparticles. Moreover, SF-BG scaffolds promoted alkaline phosphatase activity as compared to SF scaffolds without BG particles on day 14. In brief, the 3D porous silk fibroin-based composites containing BG nanoparticles with excellent mechanical properties are promising scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration in high load-bearing applications.

Multiple-layer guided surface acoustic wave (SAW)-based pH sensing in longitudinal FiSS-tumoroid cultures

A constitutively increased intracellular pH that is higher than the extracellular pH is emerging as a hallmark of cancer and determining pH could play a significant role in the measurement of drug responsiveness of tumor cells. However, a non-invasive, touch-free and real-time pH sensing as a research tool is lacking and remains a major unmet need. The purpose of the current study is to investigate a microfluidic surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor platform capable of monitoring pH in cell and tumoroid cultures. A novel multi-layer guided SAW sensor integrated into a microfluidic channel was investigated theoretically and experimentally in detail for pH bio-sensing. Sensitivity and capability of the layer guided Love wave device was modeled using the finite element simulation. The model was verified experimentally, and a study monitoring pH of cell growth media is presented. This novel pH sensor is based on a 13.91 MHz center frequency SAW device coated with ZnO (500 nm) and IrO₂ (30 nm) layers to increase the sensitivity. A change in mechanical and electrical properties of the conductive IrO₂ layer was observed resulting from electrical corrosion induced by pH solutions affecting the charge distribution, SAW phase velocity and attenuation. By measuring the frequency shift induced by the change in SAW phase velocity between the test group and control group, the pH value of cell culture media from H460 cancer cell culture plates from day 0 to day 5 can easily be determined. To improve the sensitivity and stability of the sensor, a finite element method was used to optimize the layer thicknesses. Taken together, the results of experiments show the potential application of this device to be integrated with microfluidic channels and used in determining pH changes in longitudinal tumor cell cultures.

Open vessel free radical photopolymerization of double network gels for biomaterial applications using glucose oxidase

Use of the enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) allowed open vessel free radical photopolymerization (FRP) of PAAm and PAMPS and enabled double network hydrogels with good mechanical properties.

Non-delaminating Polymer Hydrogel Coatings via C,H-Insertion Crosslinking (CHic) - A Case Study of Poly(oxanorbornenes)

Robust, non-delaminating polymer coatings and hydrogels are needed for technical and biomedical applications. This study focusses on surface-attached poly(oxanorbornene) hydrogels obtained by simultaneous UV-activated crosslinking and surface-immobilization. The synthesis and copolymerization of two oxanorbornene monomers carrying the UV-crosslinkers malonic acid diazoester or benzophenone, which can both undergo UV-triggered C,H-insertion crosslinking (CHic), is presented. The crosslinking efficiency and network stability of hydrogels made from these self-crosslinkable polymers are studied and compared to the properties of poly(oxanorbornene) networks obtained by UV-triggered thiol-ene-reactions involving a low molecular weight crosslinker. Smooth, defect-free, non-delaminating hydrogel coatings were obtained by CHic, not only on laboratory model surfaces but also on a technical product.

Synthesis and Characterization of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)-Chitosan-Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds: A Promising Alternative for Bone Tissue Regeneration

Scaffolds can be considered as one of the most promising treatments for bone tissue regeneration. Herein, blends of chitosan, poly(vinyl alcohol), and hydroxyapatite in different ratios were used to synthesize scaffolds via freeze-drying. Mechanical tests, FTIR, swelling and solubility degree, DSC, morphology, and cell viability were used as characterization techniques. Statistical significance of the experiments was determined using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with p < 0.05. Crosslinked and plasticized scaffolds absorbed five times more water than non-crosslinked and plasticized ones, which is an indicator of better hydrophilic features, as well as adequate resistance to water without detriment of the swelling potential. Indeed, the tested mechanical properties were notably higher for samples which were undergone to crosslinking and plasticized process. The presence of chitosan is determinant in pore formation and distribution which is an imperative for cell communication. Uniform pore size with diameters ranging from 142 to 519 µm were obtained, a range that has been described as optimal for bone tissue regeneration. Moreover, cytotoxicity was considered as negligible in the tested conditions, and viability indicates that the material might have potential as a bone regeneration system.