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Polymers
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Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering
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Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomacromolecules, Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 April 2023) | Viewed by 43684

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu

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Guest Editor
Department of Science and Engineereing of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, Politehnica University of Bucharest, RO-011061 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: synthesis and characterization of nanobiomaterials; polymers; pharmaceutical nanotechnology; drug delivery; anti-biofilm surfaces; nanomodified surfaces; natural products
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Ionela Andreea Neacsu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Science and Engineering of Oxide Materials and Nanomaterials, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: nanomaterials; drug delivery systems; biomimetic materials; biogenic calcium sources; composite scaffolds
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With its multidisciplinary approach, this Special Issue aims to gather the most recent and important knowledge in top priority scientific fields such as health and emerging technologies. Tissue and organ regeneration are still a challenge in contemporary medical practices. There are currently numerous treatment options, which include the possibility of transplantation, mechanical devices, artificial prostheses, surgery, and drug therapy—yet when discussing massive tissue damage, a major issue is represented by the development of biodegradable scaffolds, with proper mechanical and biological properties, to create a balance between tissue resorption and formation. Apart from the biocompatibility of the implanted materials, another limitation arises from the high risk of infection associated with surgical intervention. This Special Issue will focus on modern synthesis routes and characterization techniques to design tissue regeneration materials with enhanced properties in terms of antimicrobial effect and biocompatibility requirements (e.g., 3D porous composite scaffolds with controlled release of bioactive compounds, scaffolds based on biotemplates or naturally derived biomaterials, with the potential to mimic the native tissue).

Prof. Dr. Alexandru Grumezescu
Dr. Ionela Andreea Neacsu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • polymers
  • scaffolds
  • composites
  • porous materials
  • wound dressings
  • 3D printing
  • biomedical applications
  • cell proliferation
  • biodegradability
  • tissue engineering

Published Papers (16 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 6326 KiB  
Article
Piezoelectric Biocomposites for Bone Grafting in Dentistry
by Cristina Rodica Dumitrescu, Ionela Andreea Neacsu, Roxana Trusca, Roxana Cristina Popescu, Iuliana Raut, Mariana Constantin and Ecaterina Andronescu
Polymers 2023, 15(11), 2446; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15112446 - 25 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1556
Abstract
In this research, Hydroxyapatite—Potassium, Sodium Niobate—Chitosan (HA-KNN-CSL) biocomposites were synthesized, both as hydrogel and ultra-porous scaffolds, to offer two commonly used alternatives to biomaterials in dental clinical practice. The biocomposites were obtained by varying the content of low deacetylated chitosan as matrix phase, [...] Read more.
In this research, Hydroxyapatite—Potassium, Sodium Niobate—Chitosan (HA-KNN-CSL) biocomposites were synthesized, both as hydrogel and ultra-porous scaffolds, to offer two commonly used alternatives to biomaterials in dental clinical practice. The biocomposites were obtained by varying the content of low deacetylated chitosan as matrix phase, mesoporous hydroxyapatite nano-powder, and potassium–sodium niobate (K0.47Na0.53NbO3) sub-micron-sized powder. The resulting materials were characterized from physical, morpho-structural, and in vitro biological points of view. The porous scaffolds were obtained by freeze-drying the composite hydrogels and had a specific surface area of 18.4—24 m2/g and a strong ability to retain fluid. Chitosan degradation was studied for 7 and 28 days of immersion in simulated body fluid without enzymatic presence. All synthesized compositions proved to be biocompatible in contact with osteoblast-like MG-63 cells and showed antibacterial effects. The best antibacterial effect was shown by the 10HA-90KNN-CSL hydrogel composition against Staphylococcus aureus and the fungal strain Candida albicans, while a weaker effect was observed for the dry scaffold. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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23 pages, 6804 KiB  
Article
Effects of Calcium Carbonate Microcapsules and Nanohydroxyapatite on Properties of Thermosensitive Chitosan/Collagen Hydrogels
by Premjit Arpornmaeklong, Natthaporn Jaiman, Komsan Apinyauppatham, Asira Fuongfuchat and Supakorn Boonyuen
Polymers 2023, 15(2), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15020416 - 12 Jan 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1636
Abstract
Thermosensitive chitosan/collagen hydrogels are osteoconductive and injectable materials. In this study, we aimed to improve these properties by adjusting the ratio of nanohydroxyapatite particles to calcium carbonate microcapsules in a β-glycerophosphate-crosslinked chitosan/collagen hydrogel. Two hydrogel systems with 2% and 5% nanohydroxyapatite particles were [...] Read more.
Thermosensitive chitosan/collagen hydrogels are osteoconductive and injectable materials. In this study, we aimed to improve these properties by adjusting the ratio of nanohydroxyapatite particles to calcium carbonate microcapsules in a β-glycerophosphate-crosslinked chitosan/collagen hydrogel. Two hydrogel systems with 2% and 5% nanohydroxyapatite particles were studied, each of which had varying microcapsule content (i.e., 0%, 1%, 2%, and 5%). Quercetin-incorporated calcium carbonate microcapsules were prepared. Calcium carbonate microcapsules and nanohydroxyapatite particles were then added to the hydrogel according to the composition of the studied system. The properties of the hydrogels, including cytotoxicity and biocompatibility, were investigated in mice. The calcium carbonate microcapsules were 2–6 µm in size, spherical, with rough and nanoporous surfaces, and thus exhibited a burst release of impregnated quercetin. The 5% nanohydroxyapatite system is a solid particulate gel that supports homogeneous distribution of microcapsules in the three-dimensional matrix of the hydrogels. Calcium carbonate microcapsules increased the mechanical and physical strength, viscoelasticity, and physical stability of the nanohydroxyapatite hydrogels while decreasing their porosity, swelling, and degradation rates. The calcium carbonate microcapsules–nanohydroxyapatite hydrogels were noncytotoxic and biocompatible. The properties of the hydrogel can be tailored by adjusting the ratio of calcium carbonate microcapsules to the nanohydroxyapatite particles. The 1% calcium carbonate microcapsules containing 5% nanohydroxyapatite particle–chitosan/collagen hydrogel exhibited mechanical and physical strength, permeability, and prolonged release profiles of quercetin, which were superior to those of the other studied systems and were optimal for promoting bone regeneration and delivering natural flavonoids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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17 pages, 6831 KiB  
Article
A 3D Collagen-Based Bioprinted Model to Study Osteosarcoma Invasiveness and Drug Response
by Evelin Pellegrini, Giovanna Desando, Mauro Petretta, Antonella Cellamare, Camilla Cristalli, Michela Pasello, Maria Cristina Manara, Brunella Grigolo and Katia Scotlandi
Polymers 2022, 14(19), 4070; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14194070 - 28 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1889
Abstract
The biological and therapeutic limits of traditional 2D culture models, which only partially mimic the complexity of cancer, have recently emerged. In this study, we used a 3D bioprinting platform to process a collagen-based hydrogel with embedded osteosarcoma (OS) cells. The human OS [...] Read more.
The biological and therapeutic limits of traditional 2D culture models, which only partially mimic the complexity of cancer, have recently emerged. In this study, we used a 3D bioprinting platform to process a collagen-based hydrogel with embedded osteosarcoma (OS) cells. The human OS U-2 OS cell line and its resistant variant (U-2OS/CDDP 1 μg) were considered. The fabrication parameters were optimized to obtain 3D printed constructs with overall morphology and internal microarchitecture that accurately match the theoretical design, in a reproducible and stable process. The biocompatibility of the 3D bioprinting process and the chosen collagen bioink in supporting OS cell viability and metabolism was confirmed through multiple assays at short- (day 3) and long- (day 10) term follow-ups. In addition, we tested how the 3D collagen-based bioink affects the tumor cell invasive capabilities and chemosensitivity to cisplatin (CDDP). Overall, we developed a new 3D culture model of OS cells that is easy to set up, allows reproducible results, and better mirrors malignant features of OS than flat conditions, thus representing a promising tool for drug screening and OS cell biology research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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11 pages, 2175 KiB  
Article
Breast Tissue Restoration after the Partial Mastectomy Using Polycaprolactone Scaffold
by Seung-Jun Jwa, Jong-Min Won, Do-Hyun Kim, Ki-Bum Kim, Jung-Bok Lee, Min Heo, Kyu-Sik Shim, Han-Saem Jo, Won-Jai Lee, Tai-Suk Roh and Woo-Yeol Baek
Polymers 2022, 14(18), 3817; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14183817 - 13 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2012
Abstract
As breast conserving surgery increases in the surgical treatment of breast cancer, partial mastectomy is also increasing. Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a polymer that is used as an artifact in various parts of the human body based on the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of [...] Read more.
As breast conserving surgery increases in the surgical treatment of breast cancer, partial mastectomy is also increasing. Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a polymer that is used as an artifact in various parts of the human body based on the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of PCL. Here, we hypothesized that a PCL scaffold can be utilized for the restoration of breast tissue after a partial mastectomy. To demonstrate the hypothesis, a PCL scaffold was fabricated by 3D printing and three types of spherical PCL scaffold including PCL scaffold, PCL scaffold with collagen, and the PCL scaffold with breast tissue fragment were implanted in the rat breast defect model. After 6 months of implantation, the restoration of breast tissue was observed in the PCL scaffold and the expression of collagen in the PCL scaffold with collagen was seen. The expression of TNF-α was significantly increased in the PCL scaffold, but the expression of IL-6 showed no significant difference in all groups. Through this, it showed the possibility of using it as a method to conveniently repair tissue defects after partial mastectomy of the human body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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15 pages, 5691 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Biocompatibility of a Novel Semi-Rigid Shell Barrier System: As a New Application for Guided Bone Regeneration
by Rudjit Tunthasen, Prisana Pripatnanont and Jirut Meesane
Polymers 2022, 14(12), 2451; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14122451 - 16 Jun 2022
Viewed by 1641
Abstract
This study evaluated the in vitro biocompatibility of a novel, semi-rigid shell barrier system for guided bone regeneration (GBR) based on polycaprolactone and biphasic calcium phosphate membranes and consisting of a semi-rigid shell (SR) and two semi-resorbable barrier membranes, i.e., a buffered (BF) [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the in vitro biocompatibility of a novel, semi-rigid shell barrier system for guided bone regeneration (GBR) based on polycaprolactone and biphasic calcium phosphate membranes and consisting of a semi-rigid shell (SR) and two semi-resorbable barrier membranes, i.e., a buffered (BF) and an airdried (AD) membrane. In vitro biocompatibility, cell cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and differentiation were evaluated with osteoblast (MC3T3-E1) and fibroblast (L929) cells compared to the d-PTFE membrane (Cytoplast®, CP). The osteoblasts and fibroblasts were well attached and proliferated on all materials from days 1, 3, and 7 without cell cytotoxicity. All groups showed that osteoblast and fibroblast cell proliferation increased from day 1 to day 14–17 and decreased on day 21. On day 21, the CP membrane presented significantly higher osteoblast cell numbers than the BF membrane and the SR shell (p = 0.000). The CP membrane presented a significantly higher amount of fibroblast cells than the other groups (p = 0.000). The SR shell and the BF membrane demonstrated higher osteoblast cell differentiation markers including ALP activity, osteocalcin, and mineral secretion than the CP and the AD membrane. The semi-rigid shell barrier system demonstrated good in vitro biocompatibility and supported osteogenic cell proliferation and differentiation better than the d-PTFE membrane. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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15 pages, 3550 KiB  
Article
3D-Printed PLA-Bioglass Scaffolds with Controllable Calcium Release and MSC Adhesion for Bone Tissue Engineering
by Eva Schätzlein, Christoph Kicker, Nicolas Söhling, Ulrike Ritz, Jonas Neijhoft, Dirk Henrich, Johannes Frank, Ingo Marzi and Andreas Blaeser
Polymers 2022, 14(12), 2389; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14122389 - 13 Jun 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3135
Abstract
Large bone defects are commonly treated by replacement with auto- and allografts, which have substantial drawbacks including limited supply, donor site morbidity, and possible tissue rejection. This study aimed to improve bone defect treatment using a custom-made filament for tissue engineering scaffolds. The [...] Read more.
Large bone defects are commonly treated by replacement with auto- and allografts, which have substantial drawbacks including limited supply, donor site morbidity, and possible tissue rejection. This study aimed to improve bone defect treatment using a custom-made filament for tissue engineering scaffolds. The filament consists of biodegradable polylactide acid (PLA) and a varying amount (up to 20%) of osteoconductive S53P4 bioglass. By employing an innovative, additive manufacturing technique, scaffolds with optimized physico-mechanical and biological properties were produced. The scaffolds feature adjustable macro- and microporosity (200–2000 µm) with adaptable mechanical properties (83–135 MPa). Additionally, controllable calcium release kinetics (0–0.25 nMol/µL after 24 h), tunable mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) adhesion potential (after 24 h by a factor of 14), and proliferation (after 168 h by a factor of 18) were attained. Microgrooves resulting from the 3D-printing process on the surface act as a nucleus for cell aggregation, thus being a potential cell niche for spheroid formation or possible cell guidance. The scaffold design with its adjustable biomechanics and the bioglass with its antimicrobial properties are of particular importance for the preclinical translation of the results. This study comprehensibly demonstrates the potential of a 3D-printed bioglass composite scaffold for the treatment of critical-sized bone defects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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13 pages, 3866 KiB  
Article
Development of Biocompatible Polyhydroxyalkanoate/Chitosan-Tungsten Disulphide Nanocomposite for Antibacterial and Biological Applications
by Abdul Mukheem, Syed Shahabuddin, Noor Akbar, Irfan Ahmad, Kumar Sudesh and Nanthini Sridewi
Polymers 2022, 14(11), 2224; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14112224 - 30 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1737
Abstract
The unique structures and multifunctionalities of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as graphene, have aroused increasing interest in the construction of novel scaffolds for biomedical applications due to their biocompatible and antimicrobial abilities. These two-dimensional materials possess certain common features, such as high surface [...] Read more.
The unique structures and multifunctionalities of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as graphene, have aroused increasing interest in the construction of novel scaffolds for biomedical applications due to their biocompatible and antimicrobial abilities. These two-dimensional materials possess certain common features, such as high surface areas, low cytotoxicities, and higher antimicrobial activities. Designing suitable nanocomposites could reasonably improve therapeutics and reduce their adverse effects, both medically and environmentally. In this study, we synthesized a biocompatible nanocomposite polyhydroxyalkanoate, chitosan, and tungsten disulfide (PHA/Ch-WS2). The nanocomposite PHA/Ch-WS2 was characterized by FESEM, elemental mapping, FTIR, and TGA. The objective of this work was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of PHA/Ch-WS2 nanocomposites through the time–kill method against the multi-drug-resistant model organisms Escherichia coli (E. coli) K1 and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Further, we aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the PHA/Ch-WS2 nanocomposite using HaCaT cell lines by using a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. The results demonstrated very significant bactericidal effects of the PHA/Ch-WS2 nanocomposite, and thus, we hypothesize that the nanocomposite would feasibly suit biomedical and sanitizing applications without causing any adverse hazard to the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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23 pages, 5863 KiB  
Article
PVA-Based Electrospun Biomembranes with Hydrolyzed Collagen and Ethanolic Extract of Hypericum perforatum for Potential Use as Wound Dressing: Fabrication and Characterization
by Alitzel Belem García-Hernández, Eduardo Morales-Sánchez, Blanca M. Berdeja-Martínez, Monserrat Escamilla-García, Ma. Paz Salgado-Cruz, Minerva Rentería-Ortega, Reynold R. Farrera-Rebollo, Miguel A. Vega-Cuellar and Georgina Calderón-Domínguez
Polymers 2022, 14(10), 1981; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14101981 - 12 May 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2047
Abstract
Biological, physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of PVA-based electrospun wound dressings added with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and different concentrations of Hypericum perforatum ethanolic extract (EEHP) were studied. Membrane characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, barrier properties, [...] Read more.
Biological, physicochemical, structural, and thermal properties of PVA-based electrospun wound dressings added with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) and different concentrations of Hypericum perforatum ethanolic extract (EEHP) were studied. Membrane characterization was carried out by X-ray diffraction, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, barrier properties, scanning electron microscopy, image analysis (diameter and pore size), as well as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Results showed that the PVA/HC/EEHP materials, fabricated under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity, generated fiber membranes with diameters between 140–390 nm, adequate porosity and pore size for cell growth (67–90% and 4–16 µm, respectively), and good barrier properties (0.005–0.032 g·m−2 s−1) to be used in the treatment of conditions on the skin, and was even better than some commercial products. Finally, they showed to have anti-inflammatory (>80%), and antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and S. epiderm. Furthermore, higher crystalline structure was observed according to the EEHP concentration. In addition, this is the first report in which PVA/HC/EEHP membranes are successfully fabricated and characterized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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14 pages, 4174 KiB  
Article
Fabrication of Electrospun Juglans regia (Juglone) Loaded Poly(lactic acid) Scaffolds as a Potential Wound Dressing Material
by Eray Altan, Yasin Karacelebi, Elif Saatcioglu, Songul Ulag, Ali Sahin, Burak Aksu, Alexa-Maria Croitoru, Cosmin Iulian Codrea, Denisa Ficai, Oguzhan Gunduz and Anton Ficai
Polymers 2022, 14(10), 1971; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14101971 - 12 May 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1978
Abstract
Juglone (5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone) (J) is a naphthoquinone structured allelochemical that is mostly found in the roots, leaves, nut-hulls, bark, and wood of walnut (Juglans regia). In this study, the biocompatibility, mechanical, thermal, chemical, morphological, and antimicrobial properties of the poly(lactic acid) (PLA) [...] Read more.
Juglone (5-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone) (J) is a naphthoquinone structured allelochemical that is mostly found in the roots, leaves, nut-hulls, bark, and wood of walnut (Juglans regia). In this study, the biocompatibility, mechanical, thermal, chemical, morphological, and antimicrobial properties of the poly(lactic acid) (PLA) (w/v)/J (10, 20, 30 mg) electrospun scaffolds were investigated. Based on the results of the study, it was shown that juglone addition increased the antimicrobial properties of the scaffolds against the Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli), compared to the neat PLA film after 24 h of contact time. According to the tensile test results, the addition of J made the scaffolds more flexible but decreased the mechanical strength. The cytotoxicity properties of the J-added scaffolds demonstrated a toxic behavior on the first day of incubation. However, with an increase in the J ratio, the fibroblast cell metabolic activity increased for all incubation periods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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18 pages, 7441 KiB  
Article
Design and Characterization of a Bioinspired Polyvinyl Alcohol Matrix with Structural Foam-Wall Microarchitectures for Potential Tissue Engineering Applications
by Ching-Cheng Huang
Polymers 2022, 14(8), 1585; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14081585 - 13 Apr 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2369
Abstract
Traditional medical soft matrix used in a surgical treatment or in wound management was not good enough in both the structural support and interconnectivity to be applied in tissue engineering as a scaffold. Avian skeleton and feather rachises might be good reference objects [...] Read more.
Traditional medical soft matrix used in a surgical treatment or in wound management was not good enough in both the structural support and interconnectivity to be applied in tissue engineering as a scaffold. Avian skeleton and feather rachises might be good reference objects to mimic in designing a scaffold material with good structural support and high interconnectivity because of its structural foam-wall microarchitectures and structural pneumaticity. In this study, a biomimetic airstream pore-foaming process was built up and the corresponding new medical soft matrix derived from polyvinyl alcohol matrix (PVAM) with air cavities inspired by avian skeleton and feather rachises was prepared. Furthermore, the resulting medical soft matrix and bovine Achilles tendon type I collagen could be employed to prepare a new collagen-containing composite matrix. Characterization, thermal stability and cell morphology of the bioinspired PVA matrix and the corresponding collagen-modified PVA composite matrix with open-cell foam-wall microarchitectures were studied for evaluation of potential tissue engineering applications. TGA, DTG, DSC, SEM and FTIR results of new bioinspired PVA matrix were employed to build up the effective system identification approach for biomimetic structure, stability, purity, and safety of target soft matrix. The bioinspired PVA matrix and the corresponding collagen-modified PVA composite matrix would be conductive to human hepatoblastoma HepG2 cell proliferation, migration, and expression which might serve as a promising liver cell culture carrier to be used in the biological artificial liver reactor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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16 pages, 3935 KiB  
Article
Fabrication, Characterization and In Vitro Assessment of Laevistrombus canarium-Derived Hydroxyapatite Particulate-Filled Polymer Composite for Implant Applications
by Balaji Ayyanar Chinnappan, Marimuthu Krishnaswamy, Mugilan Thanigachalam, Huaizhong Xu, Saiful Islam Khan and Md Enamul Hoque
Polymers 2022, 14(5), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14050872 - 23 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2053
Abstract
This paper presents the formulation, characterization, and in vitro studies of polymer composite material impregnated with naturally derived hydroxyapatite (HA) particulates for biomedical implant applications. Laevistrombus canarium (LC) seashells (SS) were collected, washed and cleaned, sun-dried for 24 h, and ground [...] Read more.
This paper presents the formulation, characterization, and in vitro studies of polymer composite material impregnated with naturally derived hydroxyapatite (HA) particulates for biomedical implant applications. Laevistrombus canarium (LC) seashells (SS) were collected, washed and cleaned, sun-dried for 24 h, and ground into powder particulates. The SS particulates of different weight percentages (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 wt%)-loaded high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were fabricated by compression molding for comparative in vitro assessment. A temperature-controlled compression molding technique was used with the operating pressure of 2 to 3 bars for particulate retention in the HDPE matrix during molding. The HDPE/LC composite was fabricated and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and TGA. Mechanical properties such as tensile, compression, flexural, hardness, and also surface roughness were tested as per ASTM standards. Mass degradation and thermal stability of the HDPE/LC composite were evaluated at different temperatures ranging from 10 to 700 °C using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The maximum tensile strength was found to be 27 ± 0.5 MPa for 30 wt% HDPE/LC composite. The thermal energy absorbed during endothermic processes was recorded as 71.24 J/g and the peak melting temperature (Tm) was found to be 128.4 °C for the same 30 wt% of HDPE/LC composite specimen. Excellent cell viability was observed during the in vitro biocompatibility study for EtO-sterilized 30 wt% of HDPE/LC composite specimen, except for a report of mild cytotoxicity in the case of higher concentration (50 µL) of the MG-63 cell line. The results demonstrate the potential of the fabricated composite as a suitable biomaterial for medical implant applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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20 pages, 24620 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Synthetic vs. Biogenic Polymeric Process-Directing Agents for Intrafibrillar Mineralization of Collagen
by Neha Saxena, Joshua Mizels, Maegan A. Cremer, Vanessa Guarnizo, Douglas E. Rodriguez and Laurie B. Gower
Polymers 2022, 14(4), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14040775 - 16 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2328
Abstract
With the aging population, there is a growing need for mineralized tissue restoration and synthetic bone substitutes. Previous studies have shown that a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process can successfully mineralize collagen substrates to achieve compositions found in native bone and dentin. This process [...] Read more.
With the aging population, there is a growing need for mineralized tissue restoration and synthetic bone substitutes. Previous studies have shown that a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) process can successfully mineralize collagen substrates to achieve compositions found in native bone and dentin. This process also leads to intrafibrillar apatitic crystals with their [001] axes aligned roughly parallel to the long axis of the collagen fibril, emulating the nanostructural organization found in native bone and dentin. When demineralized bovine bone was remineralized via the PILP process using osteopontin (OPN), the samples were able to activate mouse marrow-derived osteoclasts to similar levels to those of native bone, suggesting a means for fabricating bioactive bone substitutes that could trigger remodeling through the native bone multicellular unit (BMU). In order to determine if OPN derived from bovine milk could be a cost-effective process-directing agent, the mineralization of type I collagen scaffolds using this protein was compared to the benchmark polypeptide of polyaspartic acid (sodium salt; pAsp). In this set of experiments, we found that OPN led to much faster and more uniform mineralization when compared with pAsp, making it a cheaper and commercially attractive alternative for mineralized tissue restorations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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22 pages, 18132 KiB  
Article
Reactive Magnetron Plasma Modification of Electrospun PLLA Scaffolds with Incorporated Chloramphenicol for Controlled Drug Release
by Apollinariya A. Volokhova, Dmitry A. Fedorishin, Arina O. Khvastunova, Tatiana I. Spiridonova, Anna I. Kozelskaya, Julia Kzhyshkowska, Sergei I. Tverdokhlebov and Irina Kurzina
Polymers 2022, 14(3), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14030373 - 18 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2563
Abstract
Surface modification with the plasma of the direct current reactive magnetron sputtering has demonstrated its efficacy as a tool for enhancing the biocompatibility of polymeric electrospun scaffolds. Improvement of the surface wettability of materials with water, as well as the formation of active [...] Read more.
Surface modification with the plasma of the direct current reactive magnetron sputtering has demonstrated its efficacy as a tool for enhancing the biocompatibility of polymeric electrospun scaffolds. Improvement of the surface wettability of materials with water, as well as the formation of active chemical bonds in the near-surface layers, are the main reasons for the described effect. These surface effects are also known to increase the release rate of drugs incorporated in fibers. Herein, we investigated the effect of plasma modification on the chloramphenicol release from electrospun poly (lactic acid) fibrous scaffolds. Scaffolds with high—50 wt./wt.%—drug content were obtained. It was shown that plasma modification leads to an increase in the drug release rate and drug diffusion coefficient, while not deteriorating surface morphology and mechanical properties of scaffolds. The materials’ antibacterial activity was observed to increase in the first day of the experiment, while remaining on the same level as the unmodified group during the next six days. The proposed technique for modifying the surface of scaffolds will be useful for obtaining drug delivery systems with controlled accelerated release, which can expand the possibilities of local applications of antibiotics and other drugs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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Review

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24 pages, 4998 KiB  
Review
Biomedical Applications of Polyhydroxyalkanoate in Tissue Engineering
by Thiruchelvi Pulingam, Jimmy Nelson Appaturi, Thaigarajan Parumasivam, Azura Ahmad and Kumar Sudesh
Polymers 2022, 14(11), 2141; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14112141 - 24 May 2022
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6415
Abstract
Tissue engineering technology aids in the regeneration of new tissue to replace damaged or wounded tissue. Three-dimensional biodegradable and porous scaffolds are often utilized in this area to mimic the structure and function of the extracellular matrix. Scaffold material and design are significant [...] Read more.
Tissue engineering technology aids in the regeneration of new tissue to replace damaged or wounded tissue. Three-dimensional biodegradable and porous scaffolds are often utilized in this area to mimic the structure and function of the extracellular matrix. Scaffold material and design are significant areas of biomaterial research and the most favorable material for seeding of in vitro and in vivo cells. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biopolyesters (thermoplastic) that are appropriate for this application due to their biodegradability, thermo-processability, enhanced biocompatibility, mechanical properties, non-toxicity, and environmental origin. Additionally, they offer enormous potential for modification through biological, chemical and physical alteration, including blending with various other materials. PHAs are produced by bacterial fermentation under nutrient-limiting circumstances and have been reported to offer new perspectives for devices in biological applications. The present review discusses PHAs in the applications of conventional medical devices, especially for soft tissue (sutures, wound dressings, cardiac patches and blood vessels) and hard tissue (bone and cartilage scaffolds) regeneration applications. The paper also addresses a recent advance highlighting the usage of PHAs in implantable devices, such as heart valves, stents, nerve guidance conduits and nanoparticles, including drug delivery. This review summarizes the in vivo and in vitro biodegradability of PHAs and conducts an overview of current scientific research and achievements in the development of PHAs in the biomedical sector. In the future, PHAs may replace synthetic plastics as the material of choice for medical researchers and practitioners. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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27 pages, 22400 KiB  
Review
Novel Trends into the Development of Natural Hydroxyapatite-Based Polymeric Composites for Bone Tissue Engineering
by Diana-Elena Radulescu, Ionela Andreea Neacsu, Alexandru-Mihai Grumezescu and Ecaterina Andronescu
Polymers 2022, 14(5), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14050899 - 24 Feb 2022
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3260
Abstract
In recent years, the number of people needing bone replacements for the treatment of defects caused by chronic diseases or accidents has continuously increased. To solve these problems, tissue engineering has gained significant attention in the biomedical field, by focusing on the development [...] Read more.
In recent years, the number of people needing bone replacements for the treatment of defects caused by chronic diseases or accidents has continuously increased. To solve these problems, tissue engineering has gained significant attention in the biomedical field, by focusing on the development of suitable materials that improve osseointegration and biologic activity. In this direction, the development of an ideal material that provides good osseointegration, increased antimicrobial activity and preserves good mechanical properties has been the main challenge. Currently, bone tissue engineering focuses on the development of materials with tailorable properties, by combining polymers and ceramics to meet the necessary complex requirements. This study presents the main polymers applied in tissue engineering, considering their advantages and drawbacks. Considering the potential disadvantages of polymers, improving the applicability of the material and the combination with a ceramic material is the optimum pathway to increase the mechanical stability and mineralization process. Thus, ceramic materials obtained from natural sources (e.g., hydroxyapatite) are preferred to improve bioactivity, due to their similarity to the native hydroxyapatite found in the composition of human bone. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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30 pages, 7931 KiB  
Review
New Insights of Scaffolds Based on Hydrogels in Tissue Engineering
by Denisa-Maria Radulescu, Ionela Andreea Neacsu, Alexandru-Mihai Grumezescu and Ecaterina Andronescu
Polymers 2022, 14(4), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14040799 - 18 Feb 2022
Cited by 68 | Viewed by 5207
Abstract
In recent years, biomaterials development and characterization for new applications in regenerative medicine or controlled release represent one of the biggest challenges. Tissue engineering is one of the most intensively studied domain where hydrogels are considered optimum applications in the biomedical field. The [...] Read more.
In recent years, biomaterials development and characterization for new applications in regenerative medicine or controlled release represent one of the biggest challenges. Tissue engineering is one of the most intensively studied domain where hydrogels are considered optimum applications in the biomedical field. The delicate nature of hydrogels and their low mechanical strength limit their exploitation in tissue engineering. Hence, developing new, stronger, and more stable hydrogels with increased biocompatibility, is essential. However, both natural and synthetic polymers possess many limitations. Hydrogels based on natural polymers offer particularly high biocompatibility and biodegradability, low immunogenicity, excellent cytocompatibility, variable, and controllable solubility. At the same time, they have poor mechanical properties, high production costs, and low reproducibility. Synthetic polymers come to their aid through superior mechanical strength, high reproducibility, reduced costs, and the ability to regulate their composition to improve processes such as hydrolysis or biodegradation over variable periods. The development of hydrogels based on mixtures of synthetic and natural polymers can lead to the optimization of their properties to obtain ideal scaffolds. Also, incorporating different nanoparticles can improve the hydrogel’s stability and obtain several biological effects. In this regard, essential oils and drug molecules facilitate the desired biological effect or even produce a synergistic effect. This study’s main purpose is to establish the main properties needed to develop sustainable polymeric scaffolds. These scaffolds can be applied in tissue engineering to improve the tissue regeneration process without producing other side effects to the environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Biodegradable Polymer Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering)
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