Journal of Functional Biomaterials

19 pages, 5094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pharmacological Evaluation of Acacia nilotica Flower Extract against Helicobacter pylori and Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Silico

by Aisha M. H. Al-Rajhi, Husam Qanash, Abdulrahman S. Bazaid, Naif K. Binsaleh and Tarek M. Abdelghany

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040237 - 21 Apr 2023

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4387

Abstract

The resistance of cancer and Helicobacter pylori to several drugs reflects a worldwide problem, and it has been the intention of numerous researchers to overcome this problem. Thus, in this study, Acacia nilotica fruits were subjected to HPLC analysis to detect their phenolic [...] Read more.

The resistance of cancer and Helicobacter pylori to several drugs reflects a worldwide problem, and it has been the intention of numerous researchers to overcome this problem. Thus, in this study, Acacia nilotica fruits were subjected to HPLC analysis to detect their phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Moreover, A. nilotica‘s anti-H. pylori activity and its inhibitory activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG-2 cells) were reported. Various compounds with different concentrations, such as ferulic acid (5451.04 µg/mL), chlorogenic acid (4572.26 µg/mL), quercetin (3733.37 µg/mL), rutin (2393.13 µg/mL), gallic acid (2116.77 µg/mL), cinnamic acid (69.72 µg/mL), hesperetin (121.39 µg/mL) and methyl gallate (140.45 µg/mL), were detected. Strong anti-H. pylori activity at 31 mm was reported, compared to the positive control of the 21.67 mm inhibition zone. Moreover, the MIC and MBC were 7.8 µg/mL and 15.62 µg/mL, respectively, while the MIC and MBC of the positive control were 31.25 µg/mL. The concentration of MBC at 25%, 50% and 75% reflected H. pylori’s anti-biofilm activity of 70.38%, 82.29% and 94.22%, respectively. Good antioxidant properties of the A. nilotica flower extract were documented at 15.63, 62.50, 250 and 1000 µg/mL, causing the DPPH scavenging percentages of 42.3%, 52.6%, 65.5% and 80.6%, respectively, with a IC₅₀ of 36.74 µg/mL. HepG-2 cell proliferation was inhibited (91.26%) using 500 µg/mL of flower extract with an IC₅₀ of 176.15 µg/mL, compared to an IC₅₀ of 395.30 µg/mL used against human normal melanocytes. Molecular docking was applied to investigate ferulic acid with the H. pylori (4HI0) crystal structure to determine the best binding mode that interacted most energetically with the binding sites. Molecular docking indicated that ferulic acid was a proper inhibitor for the 4HI0 protein enzyme of H. pylori. A low energy score (−5.58 Kcal/mol) was recorded as a result of the interaction of ferulic acid with the residue’s SER 139 active site caused by the O 29 atom, which was important for its antibacterial activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials Sourced from Nature)

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18 pages, 8973 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Multiple-Ion Releasing Bioactive Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-Ionomer (S-PRG) Filler: Innovative Technology for Dental Treatment and Care

by Satoshi Imazato, Toshiyuki Nakatsuka, Haruaki Kitagawa, Jun-Ichi Sasaki, Satoshi Yamaguchi, Shuichi Ito, Hiroki Takeuchi, Ryota Nomura and Kazuhiko Nakano

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040236 - 21 Apr 2023

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4877

Abstract

Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler, which releases strontium (Sr²⁺), borate (BO₃³⁻), fluoride (F⁻), sodium (Na⁺), silicate (SiO₃²⁻), and aluminum (Al³⁺) ions at high concentrations, is a unique glass filler [...] Read more.

Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler, which releases strontium (Sr²⁺), borate (BO₃³⁻), fluoride (F⁻), sodium (Na⁺), silicate (SiO₃²⁻), and aluminum (Al³⁺) ions at high concentrations, is a unique glass filler that are utilized in dentistry. Because of its multiple-ion releasing characteristics, S-PRG filler exhibits several bioactivities such as tooth strengthening, acid neutralization, promotion of mineralization, inhibition of bacteria and fungi, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, and enhancement of cell activity. Therefore, S-PRG filler per se and S-PRG filler-containing materials have the potential to be beneficial for various dental treatments and care. Those include restorative treatment, caries prevention/management, vital pulp therapy, endodontic treatment, prevention/treatment of periodontal disease, prevention of denture stomatitis, and perforation repair/root end filling. This review summarizes bioactive functions exhibited by S-PRG filler and its possible contribution to oral health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Materials for Dental Restorations)

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12 pages, 7096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Mechanical Microenvironment on Collagen Self-Assembly In Vitro

by Leihan Han, Jiexiang Lin, Chengfei Du, Chunqiu Zhang, Xin Wang and Qijin Feng

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040235 - 21 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2291

Abstract

Collagen, as a structural protein, is widely distributed in the human body. Many factors influence collagen self-assembly in vitro, including physical-chemical conditions and mechanical microenvironment, and play a key role in driving the structure and arrangement. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. The [...] Read more.

Collagen, as a structural protein, is widely distributed in the human body. Many factors influence collagen self-assembly in vitro, including physical-chemical conditions and mechanical microenvironment, and play a key role in driving the structure and arrangement. However, the exact mechanism is unknown. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the changes in the structure and morphology of collagen self-assembly in vitro under mechanical microenvironment, as well as the critical role of hyaluronic acid in this process. Using bovine type I collagen as the research object, collagen solution is loaded into tensile and stress-strain gradient devices. The morphology and distribution of collagen is observed using an atomic force microscope while changing the concentration of collagen solution, mechanical loading strength, tensile speed, and ratio of collagen to hyaluronic acid. The results demonstrate that the mechanics field governs collagen fibers and changes their orientation. Stress magnifies the differences in results caused by different stress concentrations and sizes, and hyaluronic acid improves collagen fiber orientation. This research is critical for expanding the use of collagen-based biomaterials in tissue engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine)

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19 pages, 3364 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Antimicrobial PVA Hydrogels with Tunable Mechanical Properties and Antimicrobial Release Profiles

by Caitlyn Greene, Henry T. Beaman, Darnelle Stinfort, Maryam Ramezani and Mary Beth B. Monroe

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040234 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2663

Abstract

Hydrogels are broadly employed in wound healing applications due to their high water content and tissue-mimicking mechanical properties. Healing is hindered by infection in many types of wound, including Crohn’s fistulas, tunneling wounds that form between different portions of the digestive system in [...] Read more.

Hydrogels are broadly employed in wound healing applications due to their high water content and tissue-mimicking mechanical properties. Healing is hindered by infection in many types of wound, including Crohn’s fistulas, tunneling wounds that form between different portions of the digestive system in Crohn’s disease patients. Owing to the rise of drug-resistant infections, alternate approaches are required to treat wound infections beyond traditional antibiotics. To address this clinical need, we designed a water-responsive shape memory polymer (SMP) hydrogel, with natural antimicrobials in the form of phenolic acids (PAs), for potential use in wound filling and healing. The shape memory properties could allow for implantation in a low-profile shape, followed by expansion and would filling, while the PAs provide localized delivery of antimicrobials. Here, we developed a urethane-crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel with cinnamic (CA), p-coumaric (PCA), and caffeic (Ca-A) acid chemically or physically incorporated at varied concentrations. We examined the effects of incorporated PAs on antimicrobial, mechanical, and shape memory properties, and on cell viability. Materials with physically incorporated PAs showed improved antibacterial properties with lower biofilm formation on hydrogel surfaces. Both modulus and elongation at break could be increased simultaneously in hydrogels after both forms of PA incorporation. Cellular response in terms of initial viability and growth over time varied based on PA structure and concentration. Shape memory properties were not negatively affected by PA incorporation. These PA-containing hydrogels with antimicrobial properties could provide a new option for wound filling, infection control, and healing. Furthermore, PA content and structure provide novel tools for tuning material properties independently of network chemistry, which could be harnessed in a range of materials systems and biomedical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biopolymer-Based Hydrogel Materials: Opportunities and Challenges)

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21 pages, 1643 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Peptide-Based Hydrogels: Template Materials for Tissue Engineering

by Roya Binaymotlagh, Laura Chronopoulou and Cleofe Palocci

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040233 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2694

Abstract

Tissue and organ regeneration are challenging issues, yet they represent the frontier of current research in the biomedical field. Currently, a major problem is the lack of ideal scaffold materials’ definition. As well known, peptide hydrogels have attracted increasing attention in recent years [...] Read more.

Tissue and organ regeneration are challenging issues, yet they represent the frontier of current research in the biomedical field. Currently, a major problem is the lack of ideal scaffold materials’ definition. As well known, peptide hydrogels have attracted increasing attention in recent years thanks to significant properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, good mechanical stability, and tissue-like elasticity. Such properties make them excellent candidates for 3D scaffold materials. In this review, the first aim is to describe the main features of a peptide hydrogel in order to be considered as a 3D scaffold, focusing in particular on mechanical properties, as well as on biodegradability and bioactivity. Then, some recent applications of peptide hydrogels in tissue engineering, including soft and hard tissues, will be discussed to analyze the most relevant research trends in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Regeneration of Soft and Hard Tissues—Volume II)

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25 pages, 3274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Different Surface Energy Models to Assess the Interactions between Antiviral Coating Films and phi6 Model Virus

by Zdenka Peršin Fratnik, Olivija Plohl, Vanja Kokol and Lidija Fras Zemljič

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040232 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1995

Abstract

High molecular weight chitosan (HMWCh), quaternised cellulose nanofibrils (qCNF), and their mixture showed antiviral potential in liquid phase, while this effect decreased when applied to facial masks, as studied in our recent work. To gain more insight into material antiviral activity, spin-coated thin [...] Read more.

High molecular weight chitosan (HMWCh), quaternised cellulose nanofibrils (qCNF), and their mixture showed antiviral potential in liquid phase, while this effect decreased when applied to facial masks, as studied in our recent work. To gain more insight into material antiviral activity, spin-coated thin films were prepared from each suspension (HMWCh, qCNF) and their mixture with a 1:1 ratio. To understand their mechanism of action, the interactions between these model films with various polar and nonpolar liquids and bacteriophage phi6 (in liquid phase) as a viral surrogate were studied. Surface free energy (SFE) estimates were used as a tool to evaluate the potential adhesion of different polar liquid phases to these films by contact angle measurements (CA) using the sessile drop method. The Fowkes, Owens–Wendt–Rabel–Kealble (OWRK), Wu, and van Oss–Chaudhury–Good (vOGC) mathematical models were used to estimate surface free energy and its polar and dispersive contributions, as well as the Lewis acid and Lewis base contributions. In addition, the surface tension SFT of liquids was also determined. The adhesion and cohesion forces in wetting processes were also observed. The estimated SFE of spin-coated films varied between mathematical models (26–31 mJ/m²) depending on the polarity of the solvents tested, but the correlation between models clearly indicated a significant dominance of the dispersion components that hinder wettability. The poor wettability was also supported by the fact that the cohesive forces in the liquid phase were stronger than the adhesion to the contact surface. In addition, the dispersive (hydrophobic) component dominated in the phi6 dispersion, and since this was also the case in the spin-coated films, it can be assumed that weak physical van der Waals forces (dispersion forces) and hydrophobic interactions occurred between phi6 and the polysaccharide films, resulting in the virus not being in sufficient contact with the tested material during antiviral testing of the material to be inactivated by the active coatings of the polysaccharides used. Regarding the contact killing mechanism, this is a disadvantage that can be overcome by changing the previous material surface (activation). In this way, HMWCh, qCNF, and their mixture can attach to the material surface with better adhesion, thickness, and different shape and orientation, resulting in a more dominant polar fraction of SFE and thus enabling the interactions within the polar part of phi6 dispersion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Polysaccharides for Bioactive Functional Materials and Applications)

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15 pages, 7085 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Application Time of Silane for the Bonding Performance between Feldspar or Lithium Disilicate Ceramics and Luting Resin Composites

by Florian Fuchs, Sina Maria Westerhove, Leonie Schmohl, Andreas Koenig, Rujito Sesariojiwandono Ridho Suharbiansah, Sebastian Hahnel and Angelika Rauch

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040231 - 19 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2254

Abstract

A correct silanization time is essential for successful surface functionalization and sufficient bonding to dental ceramics. The shear bond strength (SBS) of lithium disilicate (LDS) and feldspar (FSC) ceramics and luting resin composite was investigated with respect to different silanization times, taking into [...] Read more.

A correct silanization time is essential for successful surface functionalization and sufficient bonding to dental ceramics. The shear bond strength (SBS) of lithium disilicate (LDS) and feldspar (FSC) ceramics and luting resin composite was investigated with respect to different silanization times, taking into account the physical properties of the individual surfaces. The SBS test was performed with a universal testing machine, and the fracture surfaces were evaluated by stereomicroscopy. The surface roughness of the prepared specimens was analyzed after etching. Changes in surface properties due to surface functionalization were evaluated by surface free energy (SFE) via contact angle measurement. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to determine the chemical binding. The roughness and SBS of the control group (no silane, etched) were higher for FSC than for LDS. Regarding the SFE, the dispersive fraction increased and the polar fraction decreased after silanization. FTIR confirmed the presence of silane on the surfaces. The SBS of LDS showed a significant increase from 5 to 15 s, depending on the silane and luting resin composite. For FSC, cohesive failure was observed for all samples. For LDS specimens, a silane application time of 15 to 60 s is recommended. Based on clinical conditions, no difference between the silanization times was observed for FSC specimens, indicating that etching alone produces sufficient bonding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functionalized Dental Materials for Synergy in Mechanical, Aesthetic, and Microbiological Behavior)

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19 pages, 8312 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of a More Environmentally Friendly Silk Fibroin Scaffold for Soft Tissue Applications

by Nathan V. Roblin, Megan K. DeBari, Sandra L. Shefter, Erica Iizuka and Rosalyn D. Abbott

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040230 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3029

Abstract

A push for environmentally friendly approaches to biomaterials fabrication has emerged from growing conservational concerns in recent years. Different stages in silk fibroin scaffold production, including sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃)-based degumming and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP)-based fabrication, have drawn attention for their [...] Read more.

A push for environmentally friendly approaches to biomaterials fabrication has emerged from growing conservational concerns in recent years. Different stages in silk fibroin scaffold production, including sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃)-based degumming and 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFIP)-based fabrication, have drawn attention for their associated environmental concerns. Environmentally friendly alternatives have been proposed for each processing stage; however, an integrated green fibroin scaffold approach has not been characterized or used for soft tissue applications. Here, we show that the combination of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as a substitute degumming agent with the popular “aqueous-based” alternative silk fibroin gelation method yields fibroin scaffolds with comparable properties to traditional Na₂CO₃-degummed aqueous-based scaffolds. The more environmentally friendly scaffolds were found to have comparable protein structure, morphology, compressive modulus, and degradation kinetics, with increased porosity and cell seeding density relative to traditional scaffolds. Human adipose-derived stem cells showed high viability after three days of culture while seeded in each scaffold type, with uniform cell attachment to pore walls. Adipocytes from human whole adipose tissue seeded into scaffolds were found to have similar levels of lipolytic and metabolic function between conditions, in addition to a healthy unilocular morphology. Results indicate that our more environmentally friendly methodology for silk scaffold production is a viable alternative and well suited to soft tissue applications. Full article

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12 pages, 4211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Biosafety of Antibacterial Mg(OH)₂ Nanoparticles to a Normal Biological System

by Ying Wang, Yanjing Liu, Xiyue Li, Fuming Wang, Yaping Huang, Yuezhou Liu and Yimin Zhu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040229 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1537

Abstract

The toxicity of Mg(OH)₂ nanoparticles (NPs) as antibacterial agents to a normal biological system is unclear, so it is necessary to evaluate their potential toxic effect for safe use. In this work, the administration of these antibacterial agents did not induce pulmonary [...] Read more.

The toxicity of Mg(OH)₂ nanoparticles (NPs) as antibacterial agents to a normal biological system is unclear, so it is necessary to evaluate their potential toxic effect for safe use. In this work, the administration of these antibacterial agents did not induce pulmonary interstitial fibrosis as no significant effect on the proliferation of HELF cells was observed in vitro. Additionally, Mg(OH)₂ NPs caused no inhibition of the proliferation of PC-12 cells, indicating that the brain’s nervous system was not affected by Mg(OH)₂ NPs. The acute oral toxicity test showed that the Mg(OH)₂ NPs at 10,000 mg/kg induced no mortality during the administration period, and there was little toxicity in vital organs according to a histological analysis. In addition, the in vivo acute eye irritation test results showed little acute irritation of the eye caused by Mg(OH)₂ NPs. Thus, Mg(OH)₂ NPs exhibited great biosafety to a normal biological system, which was critical for human health and environmental protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Antibacterial Biomaterials)

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14 pages, 3203 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immunomodulatory Effects Mediated by Nano Amorphous Calcium Phosphate/Chitosan Oligosaccharide Lactate Coatings Decorated with Selenium on Titanium Implants

by Marijana R. Pantović Pavlović, Nenad L. Ignjatović, Vladimir V. Panić, Ivana I. Mirkov, Jelena B. Kulaš, Anastasija Lj. Malešević and Miroslav M. Pavlović

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040227 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1807

Abstract

The aim of this work is in situ anodization/anaphoretic deposition of a nano amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)/chitosan oligosaccharide lactate (ChOL) multifunctional hybrid coating decorated with selenium (Se) on a titanium substrate and in vivo investigation of its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effect. Investigating phenomena [...] Read more.

The aim of this work is in situ anodization/anaphoretic deposition of a nano amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP)/chitosan oligosaccharide lactate (ChOL) multifunctional hybrid coating decorated with selenium (Se) on a titanium substrate and in vivo investigation of its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effect. Investigating phenomena at the implant–tissue interface of interest for controlled inflammation and immunomodulation was also the aim of the research. In our earlier research, we designed coatings based on ACP and ChOL on titanium with anticorrosive, antibacterial and biocompatible properties, while in the presented results we show that selenium addition makes this coating an immunomodulator. The immunomodulatory effect of the novel hybrid coating is characterized by the examination of the functional aspects in the tissue around the implant (in vivo): proinflammatory cytokines’ gene expression, M1 (iNOS) and M2 (Arg1) macrophages, fibrous capsule formation (TGF-β) and vascularization (VEGF). The EDS, FTIR and XRD analyses prove the formation of a ACP/ChOL/Se multifunctional hybrid coating on Ti and the presence of Se. A higher M2/M1 macrophage ratio in the ACP/ChOL/Se-coated implants compared to pure titanium implants (a higher level of Arg1 expression) is noted at all time points examined (after 7, 14 and 28 days). Lower inflammation measured by gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF, lower expression of TGF-β in the surrounding tissue and higher IL-6 expression (solely at day 7 post-implantation) is noted in presence of the ACP/ChOL/Se-coated implants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)

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14 pages, 10830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Zinc Oxide–Incorporated Chitosan–Poly(methacrylic Acid) Polyelectrolyte Complex as a Wound Healing Material

by David Sathya Seeli, Abinash Das and Mani Prabaharan

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040228 - 17 Apr 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1735

Abstract

A novel type of porous films based on the ZnO-incorporated chitosan–poly(methacrylic acid) polyelectrolyte complex was developed as a wound healing material. The structure of porous films was established by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Scanning [...] Read more.

A novel type of porous films based on the ZnO-incorporated chitosan–poly(methacrylic acid) polyelectrolyte complex was developed as a wound healing material. The structure of porous films was established by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and porosity studies revealed that the pore size and porosity of the developed films increased with the increase in zinc oxide (ZnO) concentration. The porous films with maximum ZnO content exhibited improved water swelling degree (1400%), controlled biodegradation (12%) for 28 days, a porosity of 64%, and a tensile strength of 0.47 MPa. Moreover, these films presented antibacterial activity toward Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus sp. due to the existence of ZnO particles. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated that the developed films had no cytotoxicity against the mouse mesenchymal stem (C3H10T1/2) cell line. These results reveal that ZnO-incorporated chitosan-poly(methacrylic acid) films could be used as an ideal material for wound healing application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomedical Applications of Chitin and Chitosan-II)

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16 pages, 4274 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Microporous Implants Modified by Bifunctional Hydrogel with Antibacterial and Osteogenic Properties Promote Bone Integration in Infected Bone Defects

by Yiping Pu, Xuecai Lin, Qiang Zhi, Shichong Qiao and Chuangqi Yu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040226 - 16 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2037

Abstract

Prosthesis implantation and bone integration under bacterial infection are arduous challenges in clinical practice. It is well known that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by bacterial infection around the bone defects will further hinder bone healing. To solve this problem, we prepared [...] Read more.

Prosthesis implantation and bone integration under bacterial infection are arduous challenges in clinical practice. It is well known that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by bacterial infection around the bone defects will further hinder bone healing. To solve this problem, we prepared a ROS-scavenging hydrogel by cross-linking polyvinyl alcohol and a ROS-responsive linker, N¹-(4-boronobenzyl)-N³-(4-boronophenyl)-N¹, N¹, N³, N³-tetramethylpropane-1, 3-diaminium, to modify the microporous titanium alloy implant. The prepared hydrogel was used as an advanced ROS-scavenging tool to promote bone healing by inhibiting the ROS levels around the implant. Bifunctional hydrogel serving as a drug delivery system can release therapeutic molecules, including vancomycin, to kill bacteria and bone morphogenetic protein-2 to induce bone regeneration and integration. This multifunctional implant system that combines mechanical support and disease microenvironment targeting provides a novel strategy for bone regeneration and integration of implants in infected bone defects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Elements for Tissue Regeneration)

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12 pages, 23144 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Construction of ZnO/PCL Antibacterial Coating Potentially for Dental Unit Waterlines

by Min Xing, Haifeng Zhang, Ling Zhang and Wenhao Qian

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040225 - 16 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1965

Abstract

The formation of bacterial biofilms and the contamination of treatment water within dental unit waterlines can lead to a risk of secondary bacterial infections in immunocompromised patients. Although chemical disinfectants can reduce the contamination of treatment water, they can also cause corrosion damage [...] Read more.

The formation of bacterial biofilms and the contamination of treatment water within dental unit waterlines can lead to a risk of secondary bacterial infections in immunocompromised patients. Although chemical disinfectants can reduce the contamination of treatment water, they can also cause corrosion damage to dental unit waterlines. Considering the antibacterial effect of ZnO, a ZnO-containing coating was prepared on the surface of polyurethane waterlines using polycaprolactone (PCL) with a good film-forming capacity. The ZnO-containing PCL coating improved the hydrophobicity of polyurethane waterlines, thus inhibiting the adhesion of bacteria. Moreover, the continuous slow release of Zn ions endowed polyurethane waterlines with antibacterial activity, thus effectively preventing the formation of bacterial biofilms. Meanwhile, the ZnO-containing PCL coating had good biocompatibility. The present study suggests that ZnO-containing PCL coating can realize a long-term antibacterial effect on the polyurethane waterlines by itself, providing a novel strategy for the manufacture of autonomous antibacterial dental unit waterlines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)

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12 pages, 6444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Laser-Modified Ti Surface Improves Paracrine Osteogenesis by Modulating the Expression of DKK1 in Osteoblasts

by Jorge Felipe Lima Teixeira, João Antônio Chaves de Souza, Fernando Augusto Cintra Magalhães, Guilherme José Pimentel Lopes de Oliveira, José Bernardo de Santis, Carlos Alberto de Souza Costa and Pedro Paulo Chaves de Souza

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040224 - 16 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1764

Abstract

Titanium surface modifications are widely used to modulate cellular behavior by recognition of topographical cues. However, how those modifications affect the expression of mediators that will influence neighboring cells is still elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of conditioned media from [...] Read more.

Titanium surface modifications are widely used to modulate cellular behavior by recognition of topographical cues. However, how those modifications affect the expression of mediators that will influence neighboring cells is still elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of conditioned media from osteoblasts cultured on laser-modified titanium surfaces on the differentiation of bone marrow cells in a paracrine manner and to analyze the expression of Wnt pathway inhibitors. Mice calvarial osteoblasts were seeded on polished (P) and Yb:YAG laser-irradiated (L) Ti surfaces. Osteoblast culture media were collected and filtered on alternate days to stimulate mice BMCs. Resazurin assay was performed every other day for 20 days to check BMC viability and proliferation. After 7 and 14 days of BMCs maintained with osteoblasts P and L-conditioned media, alkaline phosphatase activity, Alizarin Red staining, and RT-qPCR were performed. ELISA of conditioned media was conducted to investigate the expression of Wnt inhibitors Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) and Sclerostin (SOST). BMCs showed increased mineralized nodule formation and alkaline phosphatase activity. The L-conditioned media enhanced the BMC mRNA expression of bone-related markers Bglap, Alpl, and Sp7. L-conditioned media decreased the expression of DKK1 compared with P-conditioned media. The contact of osteoblasts with Yb:YAG laser-modified Ti surfaces induces the regulation of the expression of mediators that affect the osteoblastic differentiation of neighboring cells. DKK1 is among these regulated mediators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bone Regeneration and Repair Materials)

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14 pages, 1305 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Use of Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators in Biomaterial-Based Immunomodulation

by Ana Beatriz Sousa and Judite N. Barbosa

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040223 - 15 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2958

Abstract

The implantation of a biomaterial will lead to the immediate onset of an acute inflammatory response, which is of key importance in shaping the quality of the repair process. However, the return to homeostasis is critical to prevent a chronic inflammatory response that [...] Read more.

The implantation of a biomaterial will lead to the immediate onset of an acute inflammatory response, which is of key importance in shaping the quality of the repair process. However, the return to homeostasis is critical to prevent a chronic inflammatory response that may impair the healing process. The resolution of the inflammatory response is now recognized as an active and highly regulated process, being described as specialized immunoresolvents that have a fundamental role in the termination of the acute inflammatory response. These mediators collectively coined as specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are a family of endogenous molecules that include lipoxins (Lx), resolvins (Rv), protectins (PD), maresins (Mar), Cysteinyl-SPMs (Cys-SPMs) and n-3 docosapentaenoic acid-derived SPMs (n-3 DPA-derived SPMs). SPMs have important anti-inflammatory and pro-resolutive actions such as decreasing the recruitment of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), inducing the recruitment of anti-inflammatory macrophages, and increasing macrophage clearance of apoptotic cells through a process known as efferocytosis. Over the last years, the trend in biomaterials research has shifted towards the engineering of materials that are able to modulate the inflammatory response and thus stimulate appropriate immune responses, the so-called immunomodulatory biomaterials. These materials should be able to modulate the host immune response with the aim of creating a pro-regenerative microenvironment. In this review, we explore the potential of using of SPMs in the development of new immunomodulatory biomaterials and we propose insights for future research in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Biomedical Materials and Their Applications)

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16 pages, 5423 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Preparation and Characterization of Gluten/SDS/Chitosan Composite Hydrogel Based on Hydrophobic and Electrostatic Interactions

by Guangfeng Li, Ni Lan, Yanling Huang, Chou Mo, Qiaoli Wang, Chaoxi Wu and Yifei Wang

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040222 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2305

Abstract

Gluten is a natural byproduct derived from wheat starch, possessing ideal biocompatibility. However, its poor mechanical properties and heterogeneous structure are not suitable for cell adhesion in biomedical applications. To resolve the issues, we prepare novel gluten (G)/sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS)/chitosan (CS) composite [...] Read more.

Gluten is a natural byproduct derived from wheat starch, possessing ideal biocompatibility. However, its poor mechanical properties and heterogeneous structure are not suitable for cell adhesion in biomedical applications. To resolve the issues, we prepare novel gluten (G)/sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS)/chitosan (CS) composite hydrogels by electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Specifically, gluten is modified by SDS to give it a negatively charged surface, and then it conjugates with positively charged chitosan to form the hydrogel. In addition, the composite formative process, surface morphology, secondary network structure, rheological property, thermal stability, and cytotoxicity are investigated. Moreover, this work demonstrates that the change can occur in surface hydrophobicity caused by the pH−eading influence of hydrogen bonds and polypeptide chains. Meanwhile, the reversible non−covalent bonding in the networks is beneficial to improving the stability of the hydrogels, which shows a prominent prospect in biomedical engineering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chitosan Microparticles: Development, Characterization and Biomedical Applications)

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27 pages, 10055 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antifungal Activity of Juglans-regia-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Aspergillus-ochraceus-Induced Toxicity in In Vitro and In Vivo Settings

by Syeda Itrat Zahra Naqvi, Humera Kausar, Arooj Afzal, Mariam Hashim, Huma Mujahid, Maryam Javed, Christophe Hano and Sumaira Anjum

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040221 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3185

Abstract

Aflatoxins produced by some species of Aspergillus are considered secondary toxic fungal by-products in feeds and food. Over the past few decades, many experts have focused on preventing the production of aflatoxins by Aspergillus ochraceus and also reducing its toxicity. Applications of various [...] Read more.

Aflatoxins produced by some species of Aspergillus are considered secondary toxic fungal by-products in feeds and food. Over the past few decades, many experts have focused on preventing the production of aflatoxins by Aspergillus ochraceus and also reducing its toxicity. Applications of various nanomaterials in preventing the production of these toxic aflatoxins have received a lot of attention recently. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the protective impact of Juglans-regia-mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Aspergillus-ochraceus-induced toxicity by exhibiting strong antifungal activity in in vitro (wheat seeds) and in vivo (Albino rats) settings. For the synthesis of AgNPs, the leaf extract of J. regia enriched with high phenolic (72.68 ± 2.13 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoid (18.89 ± 0.31 mg QE/g DW) contents was used. Synthesized AgNPs were characterized by various techniques, including TEM, EDX, FT-IR, and XRD, which revealed that the particles were spherical in shape with no agglomeration and fine particle size in the range of 16–20 nm. In vitro antifungal activity of AgNPs was tested on wheat grains by inhibiting the production of toxic aflatoxins by A. ochraceus. According to the results obtained from High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) analyses, there was a correlation between the concentration of AgNPs and a decrease in the production of aflatoxin G1, B1, and G2. For in vivo antifungal activity, Albino rats were administrated with different doses of AgNPs in five groups. The results indicated that the feed concentration of 50 µg/kg feed of AgNPs was more effective in improving the disturbed levels of different functional parameters of the liver (alanine transaminase (ALT): 54.0 ± 3.79 U/L and aspartate transaminase (AST): 206 ± 8.69 U/L) and kidney (creatinine 0.49 ± 0.020 U/L and BUN 35.7 ± 1.45 U/L), as well as the lipid profile (LDL 22.3 ± 1.45 U/L and HDL 26.3 ± 2.33 U/L). Furthermore, the histopathological analysis of various organs also revealed that the production of aflatoxins was successfully inhibited by AgNPs. It was concluded that the harmful effects of aflatoxins produced by A. ochraceus can be successfully neutralized by using J. regia-mediated AgNPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanoparticles/Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications)

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13 pages, 2919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Guided Bone Regeneration in a Periodontally Compromised Individual with Autogenous Tooth Bone Graft: A Radiomics Analysis

by Jingyu Li, Feifan Jin, Renfei Wang, Xiaodan Shang, Peiran Yang, Yuchi Zhu, James K. H. Tsoi, Ki Chan and Shuhua Wang

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040220 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3288

Abstract

Background: Autogenous tooth bone graft material (AutoBT) has been advocated as a bone substitute when conducting alveolar ridge preservation. This study is aimed at using a radiomics approach in order to evaluate and testify whether AutoBT can stimulate bone growth during socket preservation [...] Read more.

Background: Autogenous tooth bone graft material (AutoBT) has been advocated as a bone substitute when conducting alveolar ridge preservation. This study is aimed at using a radiomics approach in order to evaluate and testify whether AutoBT can stimulate bone growth during socket preservation in severe periodontal cases. Materials and Methods: For this study, 25 cases with severe periodontal diseases were selected. The patients’ AutoBTs were inserted into the extraction sockets and covered with Bio-Gide^® collagen membranes. 3D CBCT scans and 2D X-rays were taken of the patients before surgery and after 6 months post-surgery. For the retrospective radiomics analysis, the maxillary and mandibular images were compared in different groups. Maxillary bone height was analyzed at the buccal, middle, and palatal crest sites, while the mandibular bone height was compared at the buccal, center, and lingual crest sites. Results: In the maxilla, the alveolar height was increased by −2.15 ± 2.90 mm at the buccal crest; −2.45 ± 2.36 mm at the center of the socket, and −1.62 ± 3.19 mm at the palatal crest, while the height of the buccal crest was increased by 0.19 ± 3.52 mm, and the height at the center of the socket was increased by −0.70 ± 2.71 mm in the mandible. The three-dimensional radiomics analysis demonstrated significant bone growth in the local alveolar height and high density. Conclusion: Based on clinical radiomics analysis, AutoBT could be used as an alternative bone material in socket preservation after tooth extraction in patients with severe periodontitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Materials for Dental Restorations)

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18 pages, 7312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Interaction Mechanism of Intramuscular Gene Delivery Materials with Cell Membranes

by Zhanpeng Cui, Yang Jiao, Linyu Pu, Jianlin Chen, Ming Liu, James Zhenggui Tang and Gang Wang

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040219 - 14 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1733

Abstract

It has been confirmed that skeletal muscle cells have the capability to receive foreign plasmid DNA (pDNA) and express functional proteins. This provides a promisingly applicable strategy for safe, convenient, and economical gene therapy. However, intramuscular pDNA delivery efficiency was not high enough [...] Read more.

It has been confirmed that skeletal muscle cells have the capability to receive foreign plasmid DNA (pDNA) and express functional proteins. This provides a promisingly applicable strategy for safe, convenient, and economical gene therapy. However, intramuscular pDNA delivery efficiency was not high enough for most therapeutic purposes. Some non-viral biomaterials, especially several amphiphilic triblock copolymers, have been shown to significantly improve intramuscular gene delivery efficiency, but the detailed process and mechanism are still not well understood. In this study, the molecular dynamics simulation method was applied to investigate the structure and energy changes of the material molecules, the cell membrane, and the DNA molecules at the atomic and molecular levels. From the results, the interaction process and mechanism of the material molecules with the cell membrane were revealed, and more importantly, the simulation results almost completely matched the previous experimental results. This study may help us design and optimize better intramuscular gene delivery materials for clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials for Drug Delivery)

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15 pages, 9762 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bovine Fibroblast-Derived Extracellular Matrix Promotes the Growth and Preserves the Stemness of Bovine Stromal Cells during In Vitro Expansion

by Kathleen Lee, Anisha Jackson, Nikita John, Ryan Zhang, Derya Ozhava, Mohit Bhatia and Yong Mao

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040218 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2889

Abstract

Cultivated meat is a fast-growing research field and an industry with great potential to overcome the limitations of traditional meat production. Cultivated meat utilizes cell culture and tissue engineering technologies to culture a vast number of cells in vitro and grow/assemble them into [...] Read more.

Cultivated meat is a fast-growing research field and an industry with great potential to overcome the limitations of traditional meat production. Cultivated meat utilizes cell culture and tissue engineering technologies to culture a vast number of cells in vitro and grow/assemble them into structures mimicking the muscle tissues of livestock animals. Stem cells with self-renewal and lineage-specific differentiation abilities have been considered one of the key cell sources for cultivated meats. However, the extensive in vitro culturing/expansion of stem cells results in a reduction in their abilities to proliferate and differentiate. Extracellular matrix (ECM) has been used as a culturing substrate to support cell expansion for cell-based therapies in regenerative medicine due to its resemblance to the native microenvironment of cells. In this study, the effect of the ECM on the expansion of bovine umbilical cord stromal cells (BUSC) in vitro was evaluated and characterized. BUSCs with multi-lineage differentiation potentials were isolated from bovine placental tissue. Decellularized ECM prepared from a confluent monolayer of bovine fibroblasts (BF) is free of cellular components but contains major ECM proteins such as fibronectin and type I collagen and ECM-associated growth factors. Expansion of BUSC on ECM for three passages (around three weeks) resulted in about 500-fold amplification, while cells were amplified less than 10-fold when cultured on standard tissue culture plates (TCP). Moreover, the presence of ECM reduced the requirement for serum in the culture medium. Importantly, the cells amplified on ECM retained their differentiation abilities better than cells cultured on TCP. The results of our study support the notion that monolayer cell-derived ECM may be a strategy to expand bovine cells in vitro effectively and efficiently. Full article

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16 pages, 5899 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Topography and PDGF on the Response of Corneal Keratocytes to Fibronectin-Coated Surfaces

by Kevin H. Lam, Tarik Z. Shihabeddin, Jacob A. Awkal, Alex M. Najjar, Miguel Miron-Mendoza, Daniel P. Maruri, Victor D. Varner, W. Matthew Petroll and David W. Schmidtke

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040217 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2155

Abstract

During corneal wound healing, corneal keratocytes are exposed to both biophysical and soluble cues that cause them to transform from a quiescent state to a repair phenotype. How keratocytes integrate these multiple cues simultaneously is not well understood. To investigate this process, primary [...] Read more.

During corneal wound healing, corneal keratocytes are exposed to both biophysical and soluble cues that cause them to transform from a quiescent state to a repair phenotype. How keratocytes integrate these multiple cues simultaneously is not well understood. To investigate this process, primary rabbit corneal keratocytes were cultured on substrates patterned with aligned collagen fibrils and coated with adsorbed fibronectin. After 2 or 5 days of culture, keratocytes were fixed and stained to assess changes in cell morphology and markers of myofibroblastic activation by fluorescence microscopy. Initially, adsorbed fibronectin had an activating effect on the keratocytes as evidenced by changes in cell shape, stress fiber formation, and expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). The magnitude of these effects depended upon substrate topography (i.e., flat substrate vs aligned collagen fibrils) and decreased with culture time. When keratocytes were simultaneously exposed to adsorbed fibronectin and soluble platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), the cells elongated and had reduced expression of stress fibers and α-SMA. In the presence of PDGF-BB, keratocytes plated on the aligned collagen fibrils elongated in the direction of the fibrils. These results provide new information on how keratocytes respond to multiple simultaneous cues and how the anisotropic topography of aligned collagen fibrils influences keratocyte behavior. Full article

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9 pages, 4247 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

An Innovative 3D Printed Tooth Reduction Guide for Precise Dental Ceramic Veneers

by Manuel Robles, Carlos A. Jurado, Francisco X. Azpiazu-Flores, Jose Villalobos-Tinoco, Kelvin I. Afrashtehfar and Nicholas G. Fischer

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040216 - 12 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4636

Abstract

Tooth reduction guides allow clinicians to obtain the ideal space required for ceramic restorations. This case report describes a novel design (CAD) for an additive computer-aided manufactured (a-CAM) tooth reduction guide with channels that permitted access for the preparation and evaluation of the [...] Read more.

Tooth reduction guides allow clinicians to obtain the ideal space required for ceramic restorations. This case report describes a novel design (CAD) for an additive computer-aided manufactured (a-CAM) tooth reduction guide with channels that permitted access for the preparation and evaluation of the reduction with the same guide. The guide features innovative vertical and horizontal channels that permit comprehensive access for preparation and evaluation of the reduction with a periodontal probe, ensuring uniform tooth reduction and avoiding overpreparation. This approach was successfully applied to a female patient with non-carious lesions and white spot lesions, resulting in minimally invasive tooth preparations and hand-crafted laminate veneer restorations that met the patient’s aesthetic demands while preserving tooth structure. Compared to traditional silicone reduction guides, this novel design offers greater flexibility, enabling clinicians to evaluate tooth reduction in all directions and providing a more comprehensive assessment. Overall, this 3D printed tooth reduction guide represents a significant advancement in dental restoration technology, offering clinicians a useful tool for achieving optimal outcomes with minimal tooth reduction. Future work is warranted to compare tooth reductions and preparation time for this guide to other 3D printed guides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry: Clinical Applications and Innovative Techniques of New Biomaterials)

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18 pages, 5956 KiB

Open AccessReview

Proteinoid Polymers and Nanocapsules for Cancer Diagnostics, Therapy and Theranostics: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

by Ella Itzhaki, Yuval Elias, Neta Moskovits, Salomon M. Stemmer and Shlomo Margel

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040215 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2159

Abstract

Proteinoids—simple polymers composed of amino acids—were suggested decades ago by Fox and coworkers to form spontaneously by heat. These special polymers may self-assemble in micrometer structures called proteinoid microspheres, presented as the protocells of life on earth. Interest in proteinoids increased in recent [...] Read more.

Proteinoids—simple polymers composed of amino acids—were suggested decades ago by Fox and coworkers to form spontaneously by heat. These special polymers may self-assemble in micrometer structures called proteinoid microspheres, presented as the protocells of life on earth. Interest in proteinoids increased in recent years, in particular for nano-biomedicine. They were produced by stepwise polymerization of 3–4 amino acids. Proteinoids based on the RGD motif were prepared for targeting tumors. Nanocapsules form by heating proteinoids in an aqueous solution and slowly cooling to room temperature. Proteinoid polymers and nanocapsules suit many biomedical applications owing to their non-toxicity, biocompatibility and immune safety. Drugs and/or imaging reagents for cancer diagnostic, therapeutic and theranostic applications were encapsulated by dissolving them in aqueous proteinoid solutions. Here, recent in vitro and in vivo studies are reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Biomedical Materials and Their Applications)

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21 pages, 4079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Intracoronal Sealing Biomaterials on the Histological Outcome of Endodontic Revitalisation in Immature Sheep Teeth—A Pilot Study

by Elanagai Rathinam, Sivaprakash Rajasekharan, Heidi Declercq, Christian Vanhove, Peter De Coster and Luc Martens

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040214 - 11 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2114

Abstract

The influence of intracoronal sealing biomaterials on the newly formed regenerative tissue after endodontic revitalisation therapy remains unexplored. The objective of this study was to compare the gene expression profiles of two different tricalcium silicate-based biomaterials alongside the histological outcomes of endodontic revitalisation [...] Read more.

The influence of intracoronal sealing biomaterials on the newly formed regenerative tissue after endodontic revitalisation therapy remains unexplored. The objective of this study was to compare the gene expression profiles of two different tricalcium silicate-based biomaterials alongside the histological outcomes of endodontic revitalisation therapy in immature sheep teeth. The messenger RNA expression of TGF-β, BMP2, BGLAP, VEGFA, WNT5A, MMP1, TNF-α and SMAD6 was evaluated after 1 day with qRT-PCR. For evaluation of histological outcomes, revitalisation therapy was performed using Biodentine (n = 4) or ProRoot white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA) (n = 4) in immature sheep according to the European Society of Endodontology position statement. After 6 months’ follow-up, one tooth in the Biodentine group was lost to avulsion. Histologically, extent of inflammation, presence or absence of tissue with cellularity and vascularity inside the pulp space, area of tissue with cellularity and vascularity, length of odontoblast lining attached to the dentinal wall, number and area of blood vessels and area of empty root canal space were measured by two independent investigators. All continuous data were subjected to statistical analysis using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test at a significance level of p < 0.05. Biodentine and ProRoot WMTA upregulated the genes responsible for odontoblast differentiation, mineralisation and angiogenesis. Biodentine induced the formation of a significantly larger area of neoformed tissue with cellularity, vascularity and increased length of odontoblast lining attached to the dentinal walls compared to ProRoot WMTA (p < 0.05), but future studies with larger sample size and adequate power as estimated by the results of this pilot study would confirm the effect of intracoronal sealing biomaterials on the histological outcome of endodontic revitalisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials for Clinical Endodontic Applications)

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15 pages, 4951 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vivo Assessment of the Apatite-Forming Ability of New-Generation Hydraulic Calcium Silicate Cements Using a Rat Subcutaneous Implantation Model

by Naoki Edanami, Shoji Takenaka, Razi Saifullah Ibn Belal, Kunihiko Yoshiba, Shintaro Takahara, Nagako Yoshiba, Naoto Ohkura and Yuichiro Noiri

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040213 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1822

Abstract

Hydroxyapatite formation on endodontic hydraulic calcium silicate cements (HCSCs) plays a significant role in sealing the root canal system and elevating the hard-tissue inductivity of the materials. This study evaluated the in vivo apatite-forming ability of 13 new-generation HCSCs using an original HCSC [...] Read more.

Hydroxyapatite formation on endodontic hydraulic calcium silicate cements (HCSCs) plays a significant role in sealing the root canal system and elevating the hard-tissue inductivity of the materials. This study evaluated the in vivo apatite-forming ability of 13 new-generation HCSCs using an original HCSC (white ProRoot MTA: PR) as a positive control. The HCSCs were loaded into polytetrafluoroethylene tubes and implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of 4-week-old male Wistar rats. At 28 days after implantation, hydroxyapatite formation on the HCSC implants was assessed with micro-Raman spectroscopy, surface ultrastructural and elemental characterization, and elemental mapping of the material–tissue interface. Seven new-generation HCSCs and PR had a Raman band for hydroxyapatite (v1 PO₄³⁻ band at 960 cm⁻¹) and hydroxyapatite-like calcium-phosphorus-rich spherical precipitates on the surfaces. The other six HCSCs with neither the hydroxyapatite Raman band nor hydroxyapatite-like spherical precipitates did not show calcium-phosphorus-rich hydroxyapatite-layer-like regions in the elemental mapping. These results indicated that 6 of the 13 new-generation HCSCs possessed little or no ability to produce hydroxyapatite in vivo, unlike PR. The weak in vivo apatite-forming ability of the six HCSCs may have a negative impact on their clinical performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Dental Biomaterials)

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24 pages, 6420 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Biomechanical Characteristics and Analysis Approaches of Bone and Bone Substitute Materials

by Yumiao Niu, Tianming Du and Youjun Liu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040212 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5532

Abstract

Bone has a special structure that is both stiff and elastic, and the composition of bone confers it with an exceptional mechanical property. However, bone substitute materials that are made of the same hydroxyapatite (HA) and collagen do not offer the same mechanical [...] Read more.

Bone has a special structure that is both stiff and elastic, and the composition of bone confers it with an exceptional mechanical property. However, bone substitute materials that are made of the same hydroxyapatite (HA) and collagen do not offer the same mechanical properties. It is important for bionic bone preparation to understand the structure of bone and the mineralization process and factors. In this paper, the research on the mineralization of collagen is reviewed in terms of the mechanical properties in recent years. Firstly, the structure and mechanical properties of bone are analyzed, and the differences of bone in different parts are described. Then, different scaffolds for bone repair are suggested considering bone repair sites. Mineralized collagen seems to be a better option for new composite scaffolds. Last, the paper introduces the most common method to prepare mineralized collagen and summarizes the factors influencing collagen mineralization and methods to analyze its mechanical properties. In conclusion, mineralized collagen is thought to be an ideal bone substitute material because it promotes faster development. Among the factors that promote collagen mineralization, more attention should be given to the mechanical loading factors of bone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomechanical Study and Analysis for Cardiovascular/Skeletal Materials and Devices)

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12 pages, 2227 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Titanium Surface Topography on Adherent Macrophage Integrin and Cytokine Expression

by Manju Sofia Pitchai, Deepak Samuel Ipe and Stephen Hamlet

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040211 - 11 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2154

Abstract

Immunomodulatory biomaterials have the potential to stimulate an immune response able to promote constructive and functional tissue remodeling, as opposed to persistent inflammation and scar tissue formation. This study examined the effects of titanium surface modification on integrin expression and concurrent cytokine secretion [...] Read more.

Immunomodulatory biomaterials have the potential to stimulate an immune response able to promote constructive and functional tissue remodeling, as opposed to persistent inflammation and scar tissue formation. This study examined the effects of titanium surface modification on integrin expression and concurrent cytokine secretion by adherent macrophages in vitro in an attempt to delineate the molecular events involved in biomaterial-mediated immunomodulation. Non-polarised (M0) and inflammatory polarised (M1) macrophages were cultured on a relatively smooth (machined) titanium surface and two proprietary modified rough titanium surfaces (blasted and fluoride-modified) for 24 h. The physiochemical characteristics of the titanium surfaces were assessed by microscopy and profilometry, while macrophage integrin expression and cytokine secretion were determined using PCR and ELISA, respectively. After 24 h adhesion onto titanium, integrin α1 expression was downregulated in both M0 and M1 cells on all titanium surfaces. Expression of integrins α2, αM, β1 and β2 increased in M0 cells cultured on the machined surface only, whereas in M1 cells, expression of integrins α2, αM and β1 all increased with culture on both the machined and rough titanium surfaces. These results correlated with a cytokine secretory response whereby levels of IL-1β, IL-31 and TNF-α increased significantly in M1 cells cultured on the titanium surfaces. These results show that adherent inflammatory macrophages interact with titanium in a surface-dependent manner such that increased levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-31 secreted by M1 cells were associated with higher expression of integrins α2, αM and β1. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials and Bioengineering in Dentistry)

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15 pages, 3190 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Status of Peri-Implant Diseases: A Clinical Review for Evidence-Based Decision Making

by Antonio Scarano, Ahmad G. A. Khater, Sergio Alexandre Gehrke, Paola Serra, Inchingolo Francesco, Mariastella Di Carmine, Sergio Rexhep Tari, Lucia Leo and Felice Lorusso

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040210 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8095

Abstract

Background: the prevalence of peri-implant diseases is constantly growing, particularly with the increasing use of dental implants. As such, achieving healthy peri-implant tissues has become a key challenge in implant dentistry since it considers the optimal success paradigm. This narrative review aims to [...] Read more.

Background: the prevalence of peri-implant diseases is constantly growing, particularly with the increasing use of dental implants. As such, achieving healthy peri-implant tissues has become a key challenge in implant dentistry since it considers the optimal success paradigm. This narrative review aims to highlight the current concepts regarding the disease and summarize the available evidence on treatment approaches clarifying their indications for usage following the World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases (2017). Methods: we reviewed the recent literature and conducted a narrative synthesis of the available evidence on peri-implant diseases. Results: scientific evidence on case definitions, epidemiology, risk factors, microbiological profile, prevention, and treatment approaches for peri-implant diseases were summarized and reported. Conclusions: although there are numerous protocols for managing peri-implant diseases, they are diverse and nonstandardized, with no consensus on the most effective, leading to treatment confusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biomaterials and Techniques in Dental Surgical Treatment)

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17 pages, 3220 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis on the Impact of Various Aligner Materials and Attachments on Orthodontic Tooth Movement

by Mohammad Khursheed Alam, Bushra Kanwal, Abedalrahman Shqaidef, Haytham Jamil Alswairki, Ahmed Ali Alfawzan, Abdulilah Ibrahim Alabdullatif, Abdulaziz Naser Aalmunif, Sattam Hamad Aljrewey, Thamer Abdullah Alothman, Deepti Shrivastava and Kumar Chandan Srivastava

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040209 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5099

Abstract

The majority of patients strongly favor the use of aligners in the present time, especially with the advancement in esthetic dentistry. Today’s market is flooded with aligner companies, many of which share the same therapeutic ethos. We therefore carried out a systematic review [...] Read more.

The majority of patients strongly favor the use of aligners in the present time, especially with the advancement in esthetic dentistry. Today’s market is flooded with aligner companies, many of which share the same therapeutic ethos. We therefore carried out a systematic review and network meta-analysis to evaluate research that had looked at various aligner materials and attachments and their effect on orthodontic tooth movement in relevant studies. A total of 634 papers were discovered after a thorough search of online journals using keywords such as “Aligners”, “Orthodontics”, “Orthodontic attachments”, “Orthodontic tooth movement”, and “Polyethylene” across databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The authors individually and in parallel carried out the database investigation, removal of duplicate studies, data extraction, and bias risk. The statistical analysis demonstrated that the type of aligner material had a significant impact on orthodontic tooth movement. The low level of heterogeneity and significant overall effect further support this finding. However, there was little effect of attachment size or shape on tooth mobility. The examined materials were primarily concerned with influencing the physical/physicochemical characteristics of the appliances and not tooth movement directly. Invisalign (Inv) had a higher mean value than the other types of materials that were analyzed, which suggested a potentially greater impact on orthodontic tooth movement. However, its variance value indicated that there was also greater uncertainty associated with the estimate compared to some of the other plastics. These findings could have important implications for orthodontic treatment planning and aligner material selection. Registration: This review protocol was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; registration number: CRD42022381466). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dentistry: Clinical Applications and Innovative Techniques of New Biomaterials)

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14 pages, 2577 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Silicon-Based PDMS-PEG Copolymer Microfluidic Chip for Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Diagnosis

by Siyu Yang, Qingyue Xian, Yiteng Liu, Ziyi Zhang, Qi Song, Yibo Gao and Weijia Wen

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(4), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14040208 - 9 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3361

Abstract

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has been widely used to make lab-on-a-chip devices, such as reactors and sensors, for biological research. Real-time nucleic acid testing is one of the main applications of PDMS microfluidic chips due to their high biocompatibility and transparency. However, the inherent hydrophobicity [...] Read more.

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has been widely used to make lab-on-a-chip devices, such as reactors and sensors, for biological research. Real-time nucleic acid testing is one of the main applications of PDMS microfluidic chips due to their high biocompatibility and transparency. However, the inherent hydrophobicity and excessive gas permeability of PDMS hinder its applications in many fields. This study developed a silicon-based polydimethylsiloxane-polyethylene-glycol (PDMS-PEG) copolymer microfluidic chip, the PDMS-PEG copolymer silicon chip (PPc-Si chip), for biomolecular diagnosis. By adjusting the modifier formula for PDMS, the hydrophilic switch occurred within 15 s after contact with water, resulting in only a 0.8% reduction in transmittance after modification. In addition, we evaluated the transmittance at a wide range of wavelengths from 200 nm to 1000 nm to provide a reference for its optical property study and application in optical-related devices. The improved hydrophilicity was achieved by introducing a large number of hydroxyl groups, which also resulted in excellent bonding strength of PPc-Si chips. The bonding condition was easy to achieve and time-saving. Real-time PCR tests were successfully conducted with higher efficiency and lower non-specific absorption. This chip has a high potential for a wide range of applications in point-of-care tests (POCT) and rapid disease diagnosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Usage of Biopolymers in Medical Applications)

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