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Douglas JF, Horkay F. Influence of swelling on the elasticity of polymer networks cross-linked in the melt state: Test of the localization model of rubber elasticity. J Chem Phys 2024; 160:224903. [PMID: 38856072 DOI: 10.1063/5.0212901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The elasticity of polymer networks, formed by cross-linking high molecular mass polymers in the melt state and then swollen by a solvent, involves contributions from both the presence of cross-link network junctions and the interchain interactions associated with the combined effect of excluded volume interactions and topological constraints that become modified when the network is swollen. We test the capacity of the previously developed localization model of rubber elasticity, a mean field "tube model," to describe changes in elasticity observed in classical experimental studies of the mechanical properties of this type of network. In order to obtain a satisfactory comparison to the experiments, it was found to be necessary to account for the independently observed tendency of the network junctions to become localized in the network with appreciable swelling, as well as the interchain interactions emphasized in previous discussions of the localization model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack F Douglas
- Material Measurement Laboratory, Materials Science and Engineering Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, USA
| | - Ferenc Horkay
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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2
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Gan X, Wang X, Huang Y, Li G, Kang H. Applications of Hydrogels in Osteoarthritis Treatment. Biomedicines 2024; 12:923. [PMID: 38672277 PMCID: PMC11048369 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review critically evaluates advancements in multifunctional hydrogels, particularly focusing on their applications in osteoarthritis (OA) therapy. As research evolves from traditional natural materials, there is a significant shift towards synthetic and composite hydrogels, known for their superior mechanical properties and enhanced biodegradability. This review spotlights novel applications such as injectable hydrogels, microneedle technology, and responsive hydrogels, which have revolutionized OA treatment through targeted and efficient therapeutic delivery. Moreover, it discusses innovative hydrogel materials, including protein-based and superlubricating hydrogels, for their potential to reduce joint friction and inflammation. The integration of bioactive compounds within hydrogels to augment therapeutic efficacy is also examined. Furthermore, the review anticipates continued technological advancements and a deeper understanding of hydrogel-based OA therapies. It emphasizes the potential of hydrogels to provide tailored, minimally invasive treatments, thus highlighting their critical role in advancing the dynamic field of biomaterial science for OA management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Gan
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- The Center for Biomedical Research, Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Yiwan Huang
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Hubei University of Technology, Wuhan 430068, China;
| | - Guanghao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
| | - Hao Kang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China;
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3
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Hajam MI, Khan MM. Microfluidics: a concise review of the history, principles, design, applications, and future outlook. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:218-251. [PMID: 38108438 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm01463k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic technologies have garnered significant attention due to their ability to rapidly process samples and precisely manipulate fluids in assays, making them an attractive alternative to conventional experimental methods. With the potential for revolutionary capabilities in the future, this concise review provides readers with insights into the fascinating world of microfluidics. It begins by introducing the subject's historical background, allowing readers to familiarize themselves with the basics. The review then delves into the fundamental principles, discussing the underlying phenomena at play. Additionally, it highlights the different aspects of microfluidic device design, classification, and fabrication. Furthermore, the paper explores various applications, the global market, recent advancements, and challenges in the field. Finally, the review presents a positive outlook on trends and draws lessons to support the future flourishing of microfluidic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Irfan Hajam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, India.
| | - Mohammad Mohsin Khan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, India.
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Chen J, Tian G, Liang C, Yang D, Zhao Q, Liu Y, Qi D. Liquid metal-hydrogel composites for flexible electronics. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:14353-14369. [PMID: 37916888 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc04198k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging functional material, liquid metal-hydrogel composites exhibit excellent biosafety, high electrical conductivity, tunable mechanical properties and good adhesion, thus providing a unique platform for a wide range of flexible electronics applications such as wearable devices, medical devices, actuators, and energy conversion devices. Through different composite methods, liquid metals can be integrated into hydrogel matrices to form multifunctional composite material systems, which further expands the application range of hydrogels. In this paper, we provide a brief overview of the two materials: hydrogels and liquid metals, and discuss the synthesis method of liquid metal-hydrogel composites, focusing on the improvement of the performance of hydrogel materials by liquid metals. In addition, we summarize the research progress of liquid metal-hydrogel composites in the field of flexible electronics, pointing out the current challenges and future prospects of this material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Chen
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Gongwei Tian
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Cuiyuan Liang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Dan Yang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Qinyi Zhao
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Yan Liu
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
| | - Dianpeng Qi
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, P. R. China.
- Key Laboratory of Science and Engineering for the Multi-modal Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Zhengzhou Research Institute, Harbin Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China
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5
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Kerch G. Nanocomposite Hydrogels and Extracellular Matrix-Advantages and Associated Risks. Gels 2023; 9:754. [PMID: 37754435 PMCID: PMC10530377 DOI: 10.3390/gels9090754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogels can be considered as mimics of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Through integrins, the cytoskeleton is connected to the ECM, and cytoskeleton tension depends on ECM stiffness. A number of age-related diseases depend on cellular processes related to cytoskeleton function. Some examples of cancer initiation and progression and heart disease in relation to ECM stiffness have been analyzed. The incorporation of rigid particles into the ECM can increase ECM stiffness and promote the formation of internal residual stresses. Water migration, changes in water binding energy to biomactomolecules, and changes in the state of water from tightly bound water to free and loosely bound water lead to changes in the stiffness of the ECM. Cardiac tissue engineering, ECM stiffness and cancer, the equivalence of ECM stiffness, oxidative stress, inflammation, multi-layer polyelectrolyte complex hydrogels and bioprinting, residual internal stresses, viscoelastic hydrogels, hydrogel nanocomposites, and the effect of water have been reported. Special attention has been paid to the role of bound water and internal stresses in ECM stiffness. The risks related to rigid particle incorporation into the ECM have been discussed. The potential effect of polyphenols, chitosan, and chitosan oligosaccharide on ECM stiffness and the potential for anti-TNF-α and anti-NF-κB therapies have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garry Kerch
- Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Riga Technical University, P. Valdena 3, 1048 Riga, Latvia
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Teora SP, Panavaité E, Sun M, Kiffen B, Wilson DA. Anisotropic, Hydrogel Microparticles as pH-Responsive Drug Carriers for Oral Administration of 5-FU. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051380. [PMID: 37242622 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last 20 years, the development of stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems (DDS) has received great attention. Hydrogel microparticles represent one of the candidates with the most potential. However, if the role of the cross-linking method, polymer composition, and concentration on their performance as DDS has been well-studied, still, a lot needs to be explained regarding the effect caused by the morphology. To investigate this, herein, we report the fabrication of PEGDA-ALMA-based microgels with spherical and asymmetric shapes for 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on-demand loading and in vitro pH-triggered release. Due to anisotropic properties, the asymmetric particles showed an increased drug adsorption and higher pH responsiveness, which in turn led to a higher desorption efficacy at the target pH environment, making them an ideal candidate for oral administration of 5-FU in colorectal cancer. The cytotoxicity of empty spherical microgels was higher than the cytotoxicity of empty asymmetric microgels, suggesting that the gel network's mechanical proprieties of anisotropic particles were a better three-dimensional environment for the vital functions of cells. Upon treatment with drug-loaded microgels, the HeLa cells' viability was lower after incubation with asymmetric particles, confirming a minor release of 5-FU from spherical particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena P Teora
- Department of Systems Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Elada Panavaité
- Department of Systems Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Mingchen Sun
- Department of Systems Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Kiffen
- Department of Systems Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Department of Systems Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Jezeršek M, Molan K, Terlep S, Levičnik-Höfferle Š, Gašpirc B, Lukač M, Stopar D. The evolution of cavitation in narrow soft-solid wedge geometry mimicking periodontal and peri-implant pockets. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2023; 94:106329. [PMID: 36801675 PMCID: PMC9945771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2023.106329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In periodontology and implantology, laser-induced cavitation has not yet been used to treat biofilm-related problems. In this study we have checked how soft tissue affects the evolution of cavitation in a wedge model representing periodontal and peri-implant pocket geometry. One side of the wedge model was composed of PDMS mimicking soft periodontal or peri-implant biological tissue, the other side was composed of glass mimicking hard tooth root or implant surface, which allowed observations of the cavitation dynamics with an ultrafast camera. Different laser pulse modalities, PDMS stiffness, and irrigants were tested for their effect on the evolution of cavitation in the narrow wedge geometry. The PDMS stiffness varied in a range that corresponds to severely inflamed, moderately inflamed, or healthy gingival tissue as determined by a panel of dentists. The results imply that deformation of the soft boundary has a major effect on the Er:YAG laser-induced cavitation. The softer the boundary, the less effective the cavitation. We show that in a stiffer gingival tissues model, photoacoustic energy can be guided and focused at the tip of the wedge model, where it enables generation of secondary cavitation and more effective microstreaming. The secondary cavitation was absent in severely inflamed gingival model tissue, but could be induced with a dual-pulse AutoSWEEPS laser modality. This should in principle increase cleaning efficiency in the narrow geometries such as those found in the periodontal and peri-implant pockets and may lead to more predictable treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matija Jezeršek
- University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Aškerčeva cesta 6, 1000 Ljubljana
| | - Katja Molan
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Microbiology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Saša Terlep
- Fotona d.o.o., Stegne 7, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Boris Gašpirc
- University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana
| | - Matjaž Lukač
- Institut Jozef Stefan, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - David Stopar
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Microbiology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Chremos A, Douglas JF, Basser PJ, Horkay F. Prestressed Composite Polymer Gels as a Model of the Extracellular-Matrix of Cartilage. Gels 2022; 8:707. [PMID: 36354615 PMCID: PMC9689112 DOI: 10.3390/gels8110707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Articular cartilage is a composite hydrogel found in animal and human joints, which exhibits unique load-bearing properties that have been challenging to reproduce in synthetic materials and model in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. We computationally investigate a composite hydrogel that mimics key functional properties of articular cartilage as a potential biomimetic model to investigate its unique load-bearing properties. Specifically, we find that the emergence of prestress in composite gels derives primarily from the stiffness of the polymer matrix and the asymmetry in the enthalpic interactions of the embedded particles and polymer matrix. Our MD simulations of the development of prestress agree qualitatively with osmotic pressure measurements observed in our model composite hydrogel material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Chremos
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jack F. Douglas
- Materials Science and Engineering Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899, USA
| | - Peter J. Basser
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ferenc Horkay
- Section on Quantitative Imaging and Tissue Sciences, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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