Biomimetics

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11 pages, 50513 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Stress Distribution in Dental Implant Prosthesis and Surrounding Bone Using PEEK Abutments

by Min-Ho Hong and Hyunsuk Choi

Biomimetics 2024, 9(8), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9080472 - 3 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1224

Abstract

(1) Background: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has been used as an alternative to titanium in implant prosthetic systems, but its impact on stress distribution in implant systems needs to be investigated. This study aimed to compare the effect of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium abutments on [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has been used as an alternative to titanium in implant prosthetic systems, but its impact on stress distribution in implant systems needs to be investigated. This study aimed to compare the effect of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium abutments on implant prosthetic systems and the supporting bone using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). (2) Methods: Three-dimensional finite element analysis was conducted using CATIA V5 and Abaqus V6.12 software to model mandibular first-molar implant systems with titanium and PEEK abutments. Under external loading conditions, finite element analysis was conducted for the stresses in the implant components and surrounding bones of each group. (3) Results: The implant fixture of the PEEK model exhibited the highest von Mises stress (VMS). The lowest VMS was observed in the abutment screw of the titanium model. Both implant systems demonstrated similar stress distributions and magnitudes in cortical and cancellous bones. (4) Conclusion: PEEK abutments show a similar stress distribution in the surrounding bone compared to titanium. However, PEEK absorbs the stresses within the implant system and exhibits the highest VMS values due to its low mechanical and physical properties. Therefore, PEEK abutments need improved mechanical properties for better clinical application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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19 pages, 14579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Innovative Biocomposites with Collagen, Keratin and Hydroxyapatite for Bone Tissue Engineering

by Florin Popescu, Irina Titorencu, Madalina Albu Kaya, Florin Miculescu, Raluca Tutuianu, Alina Elena Coman, Elena Danila, Minodora Maria Marin, Diana-Larisa Ancuta, Cristin Coman and Adrian Barbilian

Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 428; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070428 - 15 Jul 2024

Viewed by 2375

Abstract

This study follows the process for the development of an innovative biomimetic composite derived from bovine collagen with keratin, with hydroxyapatite being hybridized into its architecture, and it builds a comprehensive evaluation of the composite’s characteristics. The novel biomimetic materials are tailored with [...] Read more.

This study follows the process for the development of an innovative biomimetic composite derived from bovine collagen with keratin, with hydroxyapatite being hybridized into its architecture, and it builds a comprehensive evaluation of the composite’s characteristics. The novel biomimetic materials are tailored with special traits to be achieved for the repair of osteochondral defects (OCDs). The purpose of the present research is to create a reliable effective alternative to existing bone graft materials while leveraging the intrinsic properties of the components for enhanced osteoinduction and integration. The composites were characterized based on their morphological properties, including water absorption, through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and their structural properties were characterized by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Biological performance was assessed in vitro using human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), focusing on cytotoxicity, cell viability, and the ability to support cell colonization with forthcoming results. This in vivo study illustrates the real potential that this class of novel composites exhibits in regard to bone and cartilage tissue engineering and encourages further exploration and development for future clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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18 pages, 4597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Osteogenic Differentiation Potential of iMSCs on GelMA-BG-MWCNT Nanocomposite Hydrogels

by Rebeca Arambula-Maldonado and Kibret Mequanint

Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060338 - 3 Jun 2024

Viewed by 3512

Abstract

The ability of bone biomaterials to promote osteogenic differentiation is crucial for the repair and regeneration of osseous tissue. The development of a temporary bone substitute is of major importance in enhancing the growth and differentiation of human-derived stem cells into an osteogenic [...] Read more.

The ability of bone biomaterials to promote osteogenic differentiation is crucial for the repair and regeneration of osseous tissue. The development of a temporary bone substitute is of major importance in enhancing the growth and differentiation of human-derived stem cells into an osteogenic lineage. In this study, nanocomposite hydrogels composed of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), bioactive glass (BG), and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were developed to create a bone biomaterial that mimics the structural and electrically conductive nature of bone that can promote the differentiation of human-derived stem cells. GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels supported mesenchymal stem cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells, hereinafter named iMSCs. Cell adhesion was improved upon coating nanocomposite hydrogels with fibronectin and was further enhanced when seeding pre-differentiated iMSCs. Osteogenic differentiation and mature mineralization were promoted in GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels and were most evidently observed in the 70-30-2 hydrogels, which could be due to the stiff topography characteristic from the addition of MWCNT. Overall, the results of this study showed that GelMA-BG-MWCNT nanocomposite hydrogels coated with fibronectin possessed a favorable environment in which pre-differentiated iMSCs could better attach, proliferate, and further mature into an osteogenic lineage, which was crucial for the repair and regeneration of bone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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18 pages, 5822 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attachment of Fibrinogen on Ion Beam Treated Polyurethane

by Vyacheslav Chudinov, Igor Shardakov, Irina Kondyurina and Alexey Kondyurin

Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040234 - 15 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1258

Abstract

Protein-stable coverage of the artificial implant is a key problem for biocompatibility. In the present study, a protein layer was attached covalently to a polyurethane surface treated by an ion beam. A plasma system consisting of a vacuum chamber (0.8 Pa pressure) with [...] Read more.

Protein-stable coverage of the artificial implant is a key problem for biocompatibility. In the present study, a protein layer was attached covalently to a polyurethane surface treated by an ion beam. A plasma system consisting of a vacuum chamber (0.8 Pa pressure) with a high voltage electrode powered by a short pulse (20 μS pulse duration and 200 Hz pulse repetition) generator was designed. Polyurethane with a formulation certified as a material for medical implants was treated by nitrogen ions with an energy of 20 keV and 5 × 10¹⁴–10¹⁶ ions/cm² fluence range. Wettability measurements, X-ray photoelectron, Raman, Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection, and ellipsometry spectra showed a significant change in the structure of the surface layer of the treated polyurethane. The surface of the treated polyurethane contained a carbonised layer containing condensed aromatic clusters with terminal free radicals. The surface energy of polyurethane surface increased from 33 to 65 mJ/m². The treated polyurethane surface became capable of adsorbing and chemically binding protein (fibrinogen). The designed system for ion beam treatment can be used for surface activation of biomedical polymer devices, where a total protein coverage is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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15 pages, 21215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Artificial Coronary Plaque to Model Coronary Heart Disease

by Philipp Lindenhahn, Jannik Richter, Iliyana Pepelanova, Bettina Seeger, Holger A. Volk, Rabea Hinkel, Bernhard Hiebl, Thomas Scheper, Jan B. Hinrichs, Lena S. Becker, Axel Haverich and Tim Kaufeld

Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040197 - 26 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1556

Abstract

Background: Experimental coronary artery interventions are currently being performed on non-diseased blood vessels in healthy animals. To provide a more realistic pathoanatomical scenario for investigations on novel interventional and surgical therapies, we aimed to fabricate a stenotic lesion, mimicking the morphology and structure [...] Read more.

Background: Experimental coronary artery interventions are currently being performed on non-diseased blood vessels in healthy animals. To provide a more realistic pathoanatomical scenario for investigations on novel interventional and surgical therapies, we aimed to fabricate a stenotic lesion, mimicking the morphology and structure of a human atherosclerotic plaque. Methods: In an interdisciplinary setting, we engineered a casting mold to create an atherosclerotic plaque with the dimensions to fit in a porcine coronary artery. Oscillatory rheology experiments took place along with long-term stability tests assessed by microscopic examination and weight monitoring. For the implantability in future in vivo setups, we performed a cytotoxicity assessment, inserted the plaque in resected pig hearts, and performed diagnostic imaging to visualize the plaque in its final position. Results: The most promising composition consists of gelatin, cholesterol, phospholipids, hydroxyapatite, and fine-grained calcium carbonate. It can be inserted in the coronary artery of human-sized pig hearts, producing a local partial stenosis and interacting like the atherosclerotic plaque by stretching and shrinking with the vessel wall and surrounding tissue. Conclusion: This artificial atherosclerotic plaque model works as a simulating tool for future medical testing and could be crucial for further specified research on coronary artery disease and is going to help to provide information about the optimal interventional and surgical care of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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20 pages, 4483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Warm Air Delivery in Adhesive Application: Effect on Bonding Performance and Morphological Outcomes

by Rim Bourgi, Naji Kharouf, Carlos Enrique Cuevas-Suárez, Monika Lukomska-Szymanska, Khalil Kharma, Fabienne Hajj Moussa, Manar Metlej, Youssef Haikel and Louis Hardan

Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040194 - 24 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1517

Abstract

Solvent evaporation within an adhesive layer is a crucial step during a bonding process. The aim of this current research was to test whether the use of different air temperatures (20 °C, 40 °C, and 60 °C) for solvent evaporation improves the performance [...] Read more.

Solvent evaporation within an adhesive layer is a crucial step during a bonding process. The aim of this current research was to test whether the use of different air temperatures (20 °C, 40 °C, and 60 °C) for solvent evaporation improves the performance of four adhesive systems to dentin. Sixty non-carious human molar teeth were randomly prepared for micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) tests. Four different adhesive systems, Prime&Bond Universal (PBU), OptiBond Universal (OBU), OptiBond FL (OBFL), and Clearfil SE (CSE), were applied following the manufacturer’s instructions. Three groups based on the air-drying temperature were used: solvent evaporation was performed with either of warm (40 °C), (60 °C), and cold air as control group (20 °C) for 10 s at a distance of 5 cm. In all bonded surfaces, three resin composite (Reflectys, Itena Clinical, Paris, France) layers of 2 mm thickness were built up. The resin–dentin samples were kept in distilled water at 37 °C for 24 h and 6 months, respectively, before μTBS testing. Failure analysis, scanning electron microscopy of resin–dentin bonded interface, and solvent evaporation rate were tested as secondary variables. All analyses were conducted using a significance level of α = 0.05. Bond strength (BS) values were similar among all the adhesive systems used (p > 0.05). Also, the aging factor did not affect the BS (p > 0.05). Only the factor of temperature used for solvent evaporation resulted in a statistically significant effect (p < 0.05), with the temperature of 60 °C being the highest value (p < 0.05). A failure mode evaluation revealed mostly adhesive or mixed modes of failures in all the different temperatures of air used for the solvent evaporation of each adhesive system. The thickness of the adhesive layer and the creation of resin tags varied amongst the temperatures evaluated. For all adhesive systems tested, the use of 40 °C or 60 °C air for solvent evaporation led to an increased mass loss. Warmer temperatures for solvent evaporation contributed positively to bonding performance, enhancing both the quality of the adhesive layer and its interaction with the dentin tissue. Optimizing solvent evaporation with warmer air temperatures (40 °C and 60 °C) significantly improved µTBS, offering a practical means to enhance the quality and longevity of adhesive restorations in esthetic dentistry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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18 pages, 21832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biocompatible Composite Filaments Printable by Fused Deposition Modelling Technique: Selection of Tuning Parameters by Influence of Biogenic Hydroxyapatite and Graphene Nanoplatelets Ratios

by Aura-Cătălina Mocanu, Andreea-Elena Constantinescu, Mădălina-Andreea Pandele, Ștefan Ioan Voicu, Robert-Cătălin Ciocoiu, Dan Batalu, Augustin Semenescu, Florin Miculescu and Lucian-Toma Ciocan

Biomimetics 2024, 9(3), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9030189 - 20 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1531

Abstract

The proposed strategy for the extrusion of printable composite filaments follows the favourable association of biogenic hydroxyapatite (HA) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) as reinforcement materials for a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix. HA particles were chosen in the <40 μm range, while GNP were [...] Read more.

The proposed strategy for the extrusion of printable composite filaments follows the favourable association of biogenic hydroxyapatite (HA) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) as reinforcement materials for a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix. HA particles were chosen in the <40 μm range, while GNP were selected in the micrometric range. During the melt–mixing incorporation into the PLA matrix, both reinforcement ratios were simultaneously modulated for the first time at different increments. Cylindrical composite pellets/test samples were obtained only for the mechanical and wettability behaviour evaluation. The Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy depicted two levels of overlapping structures due to the solid molecular bond between all materials. Scanning electron microscopy and surface wettability and mechanical evaluations vouched for the (1) uniform/homogenous dispersion/embedding of HA particles up to the highest HA/GNP ratio, (2) physical adhesion at the HA-PLA interface due to the HA particles’ porosity, (3) HA-GNP bonding, and (4) PLA-GNP synergy based on GNP complete exfoliation and dispersion into the matrix. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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Review

Jump to: Research

18 pages, 3023 KiB

Open AccessReview

Clinical Applications of Micro/Nanobubble Technology in Neurological Diseases

by Parth B. Patel, Sun Latt, Karan Ravi and Mehdi Razavi

Biomimetics 2024, 9(10), 645; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9100645 - 20 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1018

Abstract

Nanomedicine, leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles, has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. Among various nanotechnological advancements, ultrasound-mediated drug delivery using micro- and nanobubbles offers promising solutions to overcome the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enhancing the precision and efficacy of therapeutic [...] Read more.

Nanomedicine, leveraging the unique properties of nanoparticles, has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases. Among various nanotechnological advancements, ultrasound-mediated drug delivery using micro- and nanobubbles offers promising solutions to overcome the blood-brain barrier (BBB), enhancing the precision and efficacy of therapeutic interventions. This review explores the principles, current clinical applications, challenges, and future directions of ultrasound-mediated drug delivery systems in treating stroke, brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases, and neuroinflammatory disorders. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials and potential advancements in this field are discussed, providing a comprehensive overview of the impact of nanomedicine on neurological diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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19 pages, 1002 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Interaction between Oral Bacteria and 3D Titanium Porous Surfaces Produced by Selective Laser Melting—A Narrative Review

by Tatiane Cristina Dotta, Simonetta D’Ercole, Giovanna Iezzi, Vinicius Pedrazzi, Rodrigo Galo and Morena Petrini

Biomimetics 2024, 9(8), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9080461 - 29 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1104

Abstract

The interaction between oral bacteria and dental implant surfaces is a critical factor in the success and longevity of dental implants. With advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, selective laser melting (SLM) has emerged as a prominent method for producing titanium implants with highly [...] Read more.

The interaction between oral bacteria and dental implant surfaces is a critical factor in the success and longevity of dental implants. With advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, selective laser melting (SLM) has emerged as a prominent method for producing titanium implants with highly controlled microstructures and porosities. These 3D printed titanium surfaces offer significant benefits, such as enhanced osseointegration and improved mechanical properties. However, the same surface features that promote bone cell attachment and proliferation may also provide favorable conditions for bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. Understanding the dynamics of these interactions is essential for developing implant surfaces that can effectively resist bacterial colonization while promoting tissue integration. This narrative review explores the complex interplay between oral bacteria and SLM-produced titanium porous surfaces, examining current research findings and potential strategies for optimizing implant design to mitigate the risks of infection and ensure successful clinical outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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13 pages, 1852 KiB

Open AccessReview

Optimising Bioprinting Nozzles through Computational Modelling and Design of Experiments

by Juan C. Gómez Blanco, Antonio Macías-García, Jesús M. Rodríguez-Rego, Laura Mendoza-Cerezo, Francisco M. Sánchez-Margallo, Alfonso C. Marcos-Romero and José B. Pagador-Carrasco

Biomimetics 2024, 9(8), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9080460 - 29 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1185

Abstract

3D bioprinting is a promising technique for creating artificial tissues and organs. One of the main challenges of bioprinting is cell damage, due to high pressures and tensions. During the biofabrication process, extrusion bioprinting usually results in low cell viability, typically ranging from [...] Read more.

3D bioprinting is a promising technique for creating artificial tissues and organs. One of the main challenges of bioprinting is cell damage, due to high pressures and tensions. During the biofabrication process, extrusion bioprinting usually results in low cell viability, typically ranging from 40% to 80%, although better printing performance with higher cell viability can be achieved by optimising the experimental design and operating conditions, with nozzle geometry being a key factor. This article presents a review of studies that have used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimise nozzle geometry. They show that the optimal ranges for diameter and length are 0.2 mm to 1 mm and 8 mm to 10 mm, respectively. In addition, it is recommended that the nozzle should have an internal angle of 20 to 30 degrees, an internal coating of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and a shear stress of less than 10 kPa. In addition, a design of experiments technique to obtain an optimal 3D bioprinting configuration for a bioink is also presented. This experimental design would identify bioprinting conditions that minimise cell damage and improve the viability of the printed cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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34 pages, 5949 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biomimetic Antifungal Materials: Countering the Challenge of Multidrug-Resistant Fungi

by Hazim O. Khalifa, Atef Oreiby, Mohamed A. A. Abdelhamid, Mi-Ran Ki and Seung Pil Pack

Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070425 - 12 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1407

Abstract

In light of rising public health threats like antifungal and antimicrobial resistance, alongside the slowdown in new antimicrobial development, biomimetics have shown promise as therapeutic agents. Multidrug-resistant fungi pose significant challenges as they quickly develop resistance, making traditional antifungals less effective. Developing new [...] Read more.

In light of rising public health threats like antifungal and antimicrobial resistance, alongside the slowdown in new antimicrobial development, biomimetics have shown promise as therapeutic agents. Multidrug-resistant fungi pose significant challenges as they quickly develop resistance, making traditional antifungals less effective. Developing new antifungals is also complicated by the need to target eukaryotic cells without harming the host. This review examines biomimetic antifungal materials that mimic natural biological mechanisms for targeted and efficient action. It covers a range of agents, including antifungal peptides, alginate-based antifungals, chitosan derivatives, nanoparticles, plant-derived polyphenols, and probiotic bacteria. These agents work through mechanisms such as disrupting cell membranes, generating reactive oxygen species, and inhibiting essential fungal processes. Despite their potential, challenges remain in terms of ensuring biocompatibility, optimizing delivery, and overcoming potential resistance. Production scalability and economic viability are also concerns. Future research should enhance the stability and efficacy of these materials, integrate multifunctional approaches, and develop sophisticated delivery systems. Interdisciplinary efforts are needed to understand interactions between these materials, fungal cells, and the host environment. Long-term health and environmental impacts, fungal resistance mechanisms, and standardized testing protocols require further study. In conclusion, while biomimetic antifungal materials represent a revolutionary approach to combating multidrug-resistant fungi, extensive research and development are needed to fully realize their potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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42 pages, 5803 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fabrication Strategies for Bioceramic Scaffolds in Bone Tissue Engineering with Generative Design Applications

by Bilal Cinici, Sule Yaba, Mustafa Kurt, Huseyin C. Yalcin, Liviu Duta and Oguzhan Gunduz

Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070409 - 5 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2079

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the current state-of-the-art in the fabrication of bioceramic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, with an emphasis on the use of three-dimensional (3D) technologies coupled with generative design principles. The field of modern [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the current state-of-the-art in the fabrication of bioceramic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering, with an emphasis on the use of three-dimensional (3D) technologies coupled with generative design principles. The field of modern medicine has witnessed remarkable advancements and continuous innovation in recent decades, driven by a relentless desire to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Central to this progress is the field of tissue engineering, which holds immense promise for regenerative medicine applications. Scaffolds are integral to tissue engineering and serve as 3D frameworks that support cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. A wide array of materials has been explored for the fabrication of scaffolds, including bioceramics (i.e., hydroxyapatite, beta-tricalcium phosphate, bioglasses) and bioceramic–polymer composites, each offering unique properties and functionalities tailored to specific applications. Several fabrication methods, such as thermal-induced phase separation, electrospinning, freeze-drying, gas foaming, particle leaching/solvent casting, fused deposition modeling, 3D printing, stereolithography and selective laser sintering, will be introduced and thoroughly analyzed and discussed from the point of view of their unique characteristics, which have proven invaluable for obtaining bioceramic scaffolds. Moreover, by highlighting the important role of generative design in scaffold optimization, this review seeks to pave the way for the development of innovative strategies and personalized solutions to address significant gaps in the current literature, mainly related to complex bone defects in bone tissue engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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30 pages, 32286 KiB

Open AccessReview

Various Antibacterial Strategies Utilizing Titanium Dioxide Nanotubes Prepared via Electrochemical Anodization Biofabrication Method

by Wuzhi Wang, Hanpeng Liu, Zilin Guo, Zijun Hu, Kefeng Wang, Yujia Leng, Caideng Yuan, Zhaoyang Li and Xiang Ge

Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070408 - 5 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1355

Abstract

Currently, titanium and its alloys have emerged as the predominant metallic biomaterials for orthopedic implants. Nonetheless, the relatively high post-operative infection rate (2–5%) exacerbates patient discomfort and imposes significant economic costs on society. Hence, urgent measures are needed to enhance the antibacterial properties [...] Read more.

Currently, titanium and its alloys have emerged as the predominant metallic biomaterials for orthopedic implants. Nonetheless, the relatively high post-operative infection rate (2–5%) exacerbates patient discomfort and imposes significant economic costs on society. Hence, urgent measures are needed to enhance the antibacterial properties of titanium and titanium alloy implants. The titanium dioxide nanotube array (TNTA) is gaining increasing attention due to its topographical and photocatalytic antibacterial properties. Moreover, the pores within TNTA serve as excellent carriers for chemical ion doping and drug loading. The fabrication of TNTA on the surface of titanium and its alloys can be achieved through various methods. Studies have demonstrated that the electrochemical anodization method offers numerous significant advantages, such as simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and controllability. This review presents the development process of the electrochemical anodization method and its applications in synthesizing TNTA. Additionally, this article systematically discusses topographical, chemical, drug delivery, and combined antibacterial strategies. It is widely acknowledged that implants should possess a range of favorable biological characteristics. Clearly, addressing multiple needs with a single antibacterial strategy is challenging. Hence, this review proposes systematic research into combined antibacterial strategies to further mitigate post-operative infection risks and enhance implant success rates in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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26 pages, 3246 KiB

Open AccessReview

Biopolymer-Based Biomimetic Aerogel for Biomedical Applications

by Yuhan Jeong, Rajkumar Patel and Madhumita Patel

Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070397 - 30 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1021

Abstract

Aerogels are lightweight and highly porous materials that have been found to have great potential in biomedical research because of some of their unique properties, such as their high surface area, tunable porosity, and biocompatibility. Researchers have been exploring ways to use aerogels [...] Read more.

Aerogels are lightweight and highly porous materials that have been found to have great potential in biomedical research because of some of their unique properties, such as their high surface area, tunable porosity, and biocompatibility. Researchers have been exploring ways to use aerogels to create biomimetic scaffolds inspired by natural extracellular matrices (ECMs) for various biomedical applications. Aerogel scaffolds can serve as three-dimensional (3D) templates for cell growth and tissue regeneration, promoting wound healing and tissue repair. Additionally, aerogel-based scaffolds have great potential in controlled drug delivery systems, where their high surface area and porosity enable the efficient loading and release of therapeutic agents. In this review, we discuss biopolymer-based biomimetic aerogel scaffolds for tissue engineering, drug delivery, and biosensors. Finally, we also discuss the potential directions in the development of aerogel-based biomimetic scaffolds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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26 pages, 2455 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bioarchitectural Design of Bioactive Biopolymers: Structure–Function Paradigm for Diabetic Wound Healing

by Shivam Sharma and Anil Kishen

Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050275 - 4 May 2024

Viewed by 1573

Abstract

Chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers are a major complication in diabetes caused by hyperglycemia, prolonged inflammation, high oxidative stress, and bacterial bioburden. Bioactive biopolymers have been found to have a biological response in wound tissue microenvironments and are used for developing advanced [...] Read more.

Chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers are a major complication in diabetes caused by hyperglycemia, prolonged inflammation, high oxidative stress, and bacterial bioburden. Bioactive biopolymers have been found to have a biological response in wound tissue microenvironments and are used for developing advanced tissue engineering strategies to enhance wound healing. These biopolymers possess innate bioactivity and are biodegradable, with favourable mechanical properties. However, their bioactivity is highly dependent on their structural properties, which need to be carefully considered while developing wound healing strategies. Biopolymers such as alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and collagen have previously been used in wound healing solutions but the modulation of structural/physico-chemical properties for differential bioactivity have not been the prime focus. Factors such as molecular weight, degree of polymerization, amino acid sequences, and hierarchical structures can have a spectrum of immunomodulatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant properties that could determine the fate of the wound. The current narrative review addresses the structure–function relationship in bioactive biopolymers for promoting healing in chronic wounds with emphasis on diabetic ulcers. This review highlights the need for characterization of the biopolymers under research while designing biomaterials to maximize the inherent bioactive potency for better tissue regeneration outcomes, especially in the context of diabetic ulcers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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21 pages, 2328 KiB

Open AccessReview

Replace or Regenerate? Diverse Approaches to Biomaterials for Treating Corneal Lesions

by Pietro Bonato and Andrea Bagno

Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040202 - 28 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1850

Abstract

The inner structures of the eye are protected by the cornea, which is a transparent membrane exposed to the external environment and subjected to the risk of lesions and diseases, sometimes resulting in impaired vision and blindness. Several eye pathologies can be treated [...] Read more.

The inner structures of the eye are protected by the cornea, which is a transparent membrane exposed to the external environment and subjected to the risk of lesions and diseases, sometimes resulting in impaired vision and blindness. Several eye pathologies can be treated with a keratoplasty, a surgical procedure aimed at replacing the cornea with tissues from human donors. Even though the success rate is high (up to 90% for the first graft in low-risk patients at 5-year follow-up), this approach is limited by the insufficient number of donors and several clinically relevant drawbacks. Alternatively, keratoprosthesis can be applied in an attempt to restore minimal functions of the cornea: For this reason, it is used only for high-risk patients. Recently, many biomaterials of both natural and synthetic origin have been developed as corneal substitutes to restore and replace diseased or injured corneas in low-risk patients. After illustrating the traditional clinical approaches, the present paper aims to review the most innovative solutions that have been recently proposed to regenerate the cornea, avoiding the use of donor tissues. Finally, innovative approaches to biological tissue 3D printing and xenotransplantation will be mentioned. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications: 3rd Edition)

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