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Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials

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A special issue of Journal of Functional Biomaterials (ISSN 2079-4983).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 August 2024) | Viewed by 38578

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Prof. Dr. Anişoara Cîmpean

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Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitatea din Bucuresti, Bucuresti, Romania
Interests: biomaterials and biocompatibility; tissue engineering; stem cells and regenerative medicine; cell biology; clinical biochemistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Anca Mazare

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Guest Editor

Department of Materials Science WW4-LKO, Friedrich-Alexander University, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
Interests: nanomaterials; nanostructuring; nanomanufacturing; biomaterials; functional biomaterials; semiconductors; photocatalysis; electrocatalysis; X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy; surface anaylsis techniques; single atoms
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Prof. Dr. Hong Yang

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Guest Editor

Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
Interests: respiratory nanomedicine; immunoengineering; electrochemical sensors; electronic biochip
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Although still underrepresented in many research fields, accounting for approximately 30% of researchers globally, women increasingly participate in solving the great challenges facing scientists worldwide. However, there are regions around the world where women and girls are continuously excluded from actively engaging in science. In this context, the present Special Issue entitled “Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials” envisages to create the frame for promoting and recognizing the scientific achievements of women researchers. Our hope is to take a step towards accomplishing gender equality in science. Hence, considering the tremendous progress that has been recorded over recent decades in biomaterials science and biomedical applications, the Journal of Functional Biomaterials is organizing the present Special Issue aiming to focus on various topics approached by female scientists such as: the design and complex structural, physico-chemical, and biological characterization of biomaterials and medical devices with applications in wound healing, immune modulation, tissue repair, and regeneration.

Submitted manuscripts may range from the fabrication and processing of the designed (bio)materials/medical devices including, but not limited to, metals, ceramics, polymers, composite and hybrid biomaterials, nanomaterials, drug delivery systems, etc., to in vitro and in vivo assessment of their biological performance for targeted specific application. The contribution can either be in the form of research articles or reviews where the main author (the first or the corresponding author) is female.

Prof. Dr. Anişoara Cîmpean
Dr. Anca Mazare
Prof. Dr. Hong Yang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. Journal of Functional Biomaterials is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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

biomaterials
nanomaterials
nanostructuring
functional coatings
drug delivery systems
tissue engineering
regenerative medicine
antibacterial activity
nanomedicine
immune modulation

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 10274 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effectiveness of BMP-2 and PDGF-BB Adsorption onto a Collagen/Collagen-Magnesium-Hydroxyapatite Scaffold in Weight-Bearing and Non-Weight-Bearing Osteochondral Defect Bone Repair: In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Evaluation

by Jietao Xu, Shorouk Fahmy-Garcia, Marinus A. Wesdorp, Nicole Kops, Lucia Forte, Claudio De Luca, Massimiliano Maraglino Misciagna, Laura Dolcini, Giuseppe Filardo, Margot Labberté, Karin Vancíková, Joeri Kok, Bert van Rietbergen, Joachim Nickel, Eric Farrell, Pieter A. J. Brama and Gerjo J. V. M. van Osch

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(2), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14020111 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3045

Abstract

Despite promising clinical results in osteochondral defect repair, a recently developed bi-layered collagen/collagen-magnesium-hydroxyapatite scaffold has demonstrated less optimal subchondral bone repair. This study aimed to improve the bone repair potential of this scaffold by adsorbing bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and/or platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) onto said scaffold. The in vitro release kinetics of BMP-2/PDGF-BB demonstrated that PDGF-BB was burst released from the collagen-only layer, whereas BMP-2 was largely retained in both layers. Cell ingrowth was enhanced by BMP-2/PDFG-BB in a bovine osteochondral defect ex vivo model. In an in vivo semi-orthotopic athymic mouse model, adding BMP-2 or PDGF-BB increased tissue repair after four weeks. After eight weeks, most defects were filled with bone tissue. To further investigate the promising effect of BMP-2, a caprine bilateral stifle osteochondral defect model was used where defects were created in weight-bearing femoral condyle and non-weight-bearing trochlear groove locations. After six months, the adsorption of BMP-2 resulted in significantly less bone repair compared with scaffold-only in the femoral condyle defects and a trend to more bone repair in the trochlear groove. Overall, the adsorption of BMP-2 onto a Col/Col-Mg-HAp scaffold reduced bone formation in weight-bearing osteochondral defects, but not in non-weight-bearing osteochondral defects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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23 pages, 4643 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bioactive Synthetic Polymer-Based Polyelectrolyte LbL Coating Assembly on Surface Treated AZ31-Mg Alloys

by Sangeetha Kunjukunju, Abhijit Roy, John Ohodnicki, Boeun Lee, Joe E. Candiello, Mitali Patil and Prashant N. Kumta

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14020075 - 29 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2270

Abstract

Polyelectrolyte layer-by-layer (LbL) films on pretreated Mg containing 3 wt.% Al and 1 wt.% Zn (MgAZ31) alloy surfaces were prepared under physiological conditions offering improved bioresponse and corrosive protection. Pretreatments of the model MgAZ31 substrate surfaces were performed by alkaline and fluoride coating methods. The anti-corrosion and cytocompatibility behavior of pretreated substrates were evaluated. The LbL film assembly consisted of an initial layer of polyethyleneimine (PEI), followed by alternate layers of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and poly (allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH), which self-arrange via electrostatic interactions on the pretreated MgAZ31 alloy substrate surface. The physicochemical characterization, surface morphologies, and microstructures of the LbL films were investigated using Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in vitro stability studies related to the LbL coatings confirmed that the surface treatments are imperative to achieve the lasting stability of PLGA/PAH layers. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements demonstrated that pretreated and LbL multilayered coated substrates enhanced the corrosion resistance of the bare MgAZ31 alloy. Cytocompatibility studies using human mesenchymal stem cells seeded directly over the substrates showed that the pretreated and LbL-generated surfaces were more cytocompatible, displaying reduced cytotoxicity than the bare MgAZ31. The release of bovine serum albumin protein from the LbL films was also studied. The initial data presented cooperatively demonstrate the promise of creating LbL layers on Mg-related bioresorbable scaffolds to obtain improved surface bio-related activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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21 pages, 43952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploiting Polyelectrolyte Complexation for the Development of Adhesive and Bioactive Membranes Envisaging Guided Tissue Regeneration

by Mário C. Fonseca, Ana Catarina Vale, Rui R. Costa, Rui L. Reis and Natália M. Alves

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14010003 - 20 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

Mussels secrete protein-based byssal threads to tether to rocks, ships, and other organisms underwater. The secreted marine mussel adhesive proteins (MAPs) contain the peculiar amino acid L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), whose catechol group content contributes greatly to their outstanding adhesive properties. Inspired by such mussel bioadhesion, we demonstrate that catechol-modified polysaccharides can be used to obtain adhesive membranes using the compaction of polyelectrolyte complexes (CoPEC) method. It is a simple and versatile approach that uses polyelectrolyte complexes as building blocks that coalesce and dry as membrane constructs simply as a result of sedimentation and mild temperature. We used two natural and biocompatible polymers: chitosan (CHI) as a polycation and hyaluronic acid (HA) as a polyanion. The CoPEC technique also allowed the entrapment of ternary bioactive glass nanoparticles to stimulate mineralization. Moreover, combinations of these polymers modified with catechol groups were made to enhance the adhesive properties of the assembled membranes. Extensive physico-chemical characterization was performed to investigate the successful production of composite CoPEC membranes in terms of surface morphology, wettability, stability, mechanical performance, in vitro bioactivity, and cellular behavior. Considering the promising properties exhibited by the obtained membranes, new adhesives suitable for the regeneration of hard tissues can be envisaged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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15 pages, 3426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silk Fibroin-Induced Gadolinium-Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles for MR/CT Dual-Modal Imaging-Guided Photothermal Therapy

by Chuanxue Yang, Tianxiao Mei, Qingge Fu, Yifan Zhang, Yang Liu, Ran Cui, Gang Li, Yibin Wang, Jianguo Huang, Junqiang Jia, Bo Chen and Yihui Hu

J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(3), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13030087 - 22 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2597

Abstract

The development of multifunction nanoplatforms integrating accurate diagnosis and efficient therapy is of great significance for the precise treatment of tumors. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) possessing hallmark features of computed tomography (CT) imaging and photothermal conversion capability hold great potential in tumor theranostics. In this study, taking the advantages of outstanding biocompatibility, interesting anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, and abundant amino acid residues of silk fibroin (SF), a multifunctional Gd-hybridized AuNP nanoplatform was constructed using SF as a stabilizer and reductant via a facile one-pot biomimetic method, denoted as Gd:AuNPs@SF. The obtained Gd:AuNPs@SF possessed fascinating biocompatibility and excellent photothermal conversion efficiency. Functionalized with Gd, Gd:AuNPs@SF exhibited super tumor-contrasted imaging performance in magnetic resonance (MR) and CT imaging modalities. Moreover, Gd:AuNPs@SF, with strong NIR absorbance, demonstrated that it could effectively kill tumor cells in vitro, and was also proved to successfully ablate tumor tissues through MR/CT imaging-guided photothermal therapy (PTT) without systemic toxicity in Pan02 xenograft C57BL/6 mouse models. We successfully synthesized Gd:AuNPs@SF for MR/CT dual-mode imaging-guided PTT via a facile one-pot biomimetic method, and this biomimetic strategy can also be used for the construction of other multifunction nanoplatforms, which is promising for precise tumor theranostics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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22 pages, 5892 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

TiO₂ Nanotubes Functionalized with Icariin for an Attenuated In Vitro Immune Response and Improved In Vivo Osseointegration

by Andreea-Mariana Negrescu, Valentina Mitran, Wanda Draghicescu, Simona Popescu, Cristian Pirvu, Iuliana Ionascu, Teodoru Soare, Seralp Uzun, Sorin Mihai Croitoru and Anisoara Cimpean

J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13020043 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3291

Abstract

Due to their superior mechanical and chemical properties, titanium (Ti) and its alloys have been widely used as orthopedic implantable devices. However, their bioinertness represents a limitation, which can be overcome by employing various surface modifications, such as TiO₂ nanotube (TNT) fabrication via electrochemical anodization. Anodic TNTs present tunable dimensions and unique structures, turning them into feasible drug delivery platforms. In the present work, TNTs were loaded with icariin (Ica) through an adhesive intermediate layer of polydopamine (DP), and their in vitro and in vivo biological performance was evaluated. The successful fabrication of the modified surfaces was verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and contact angle measurements (CA), while the in vitro release of Ica was evaluated via UV-VIS spectrophotometry. In terms of in vitro behaviour, comparative studies on RAW 264.7 macrophages demonstrated that the TNT substrates, especially TNT-DP-Ica, elicited a lower inflammatory response compared to the Ti support. Moreover, the in vivo implantation studies evinced generation of a reduced fibrotic capsule around this implant and increased thickness of the newly formed bone tissue at 1 month and 3 months post-implantation, respectively. Overall, our results indicate that the controlled release of Ica from TNT surfaces could result in an improved osseointegration process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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Review

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35 pages, 988 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Use of Functional Biomaterials in Aesthetic and Functional Restoration in Orbital Surgery

by Kevin Y. Wu, Jamie K. Fujioka, Patrick Daigle and Simon D. Tran

J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15020033 - 29 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2637

Abstract

The integration of functional biomaterials in oculoplastic and orbital surgery is a pivotal area where material science and clinical practice converge. This review, encompassing primary research from 2015 to 2023, delves into the use of biomaterials in two key areas: the reconstruction of orbital floor fractures and the development of implants and prostheses for anophthalmic sockets post-eye removal. The discussion begins with an analysis of orbital floor injuries, including their pathophysiology and treatment modalities. It is noted that titanium mesh remains the gold standard for orbital floor repair due to its effectiveness. The review then examines the array of materials used for orbital implants and prostheses, highlighting the dependence on surgeon preference and experience, as there are currently no definitive guidelines. While recent innovations in biomaterials show promise, the review underscores the need for more clinical data before these new materials can be widely adopted in clinical settings. The review advocates for an interdisciplinary approach in orbital surgery, emphasizing patient-centered care and the potential of biomaterials to significantly enhance patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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17 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessReview

Functional Biomaterials for Local Control of Orthodontic Tooth Movement

by Yi Lin, Moyu Lara Fu, Ingrid Harb, Lisa Xiaolu Ma and Simon D. Tran

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(6), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14060294 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2529

Abstract

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) occurs with the application of a controlled mechanical force and results in coordinated tissue resorption and formation in the surrounding bone and periodontal ligament. The turnover processes of the periodontal and bone tissue are associated with specific signaling factors, such as Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor Kappa-β Ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), etc., which can be regulated by different biomaterials, promoting or inhibiting bone remodeling during OTM. Different bone substitutes or bone regeneration materials have also been applied to repair alveolar bone defects followed by orthodontic treatment. Those bioengineered bone graft materials also change the local environment that may or may not affect OTM. This article aims to review functional biomaterials that were applied locally to accelerate OTM for a shorter duration of orthodontic treatment or impede OTM for retention purposes, as well as various alveolar bone graft materials which may affect OTM. This review article summarizes various types of biomaterials that can be locally applied to affect the process of OTM, along with their potential mechanisms of action and side effects. The functionalization of biomaterials can improve the solubility or intake of biomolecules, leading to better outcomes in terms of increasing or decreasing the speed of OTM. The ideal timing for initiating OTM is generally considered to be 8 weeks post-grafting. However, more evidence is needed from human studies to fully understand the effects of these biomaterials, including any potential adverse effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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25 pages, 10571 KiB

Open AccessReview

Functional Approaches in Promoting Vascularization and Angiogenesis in Bone Critical-Sized Defects via Delivery of Cells, Growth Factors, Drugs, and Particles

by Ghazal Shineh, Kishan Patel, Mohammadmahdi Mobaraki and Lobat Tayebi

J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(2), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14020099 - 13 Feb 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2600

Abstract

Critical-sized bone defects, or CSDs, are defined as bone defects that cannot be regenerated by themselves and require surgical intervention via employing specific biomaterials and a certain regenerative strategy. Although a variety of approaches can be used to treat CSDs, poor angiogenesis and vascularization remain an obstacle in these methods. The complex biological healing of bone defects depends directly on the function of blood flow to provide sufficient oxygen and nutrients and the removal of waste products from the defect site. The absence of vascularization can lead to non-union and delayed-union defect development. To overcome this challenge, angiogenic agents can be delivered to the site of injury to stimulate vessel formation. This review begins by introducing the treatment methods for CSDs. The importance of vascularization in CSDs is subsequently highlighted. Delivering angiogenesis agents, including relevant growth factors, cells, drugs, particles, cell secretion substances, their combination, and co-delivery to CSDs are fully explored. Moreover, the effects of such agents on new bone formation, followed by vessel formation in defect areas, are evaluated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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47 pages, 3376 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: Review of Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Effects

by Andreea Mariana Negrescu, Manuela S. Killian, Swathi N. V. Raghu, Patrik Schmuki, Anca Mazare and Anisoara Cimpean

J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(4), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13040274 - 5 Dec 2022

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 12489

Abstract

In the last few years, the progress made in the field of nanotechnology has allowed researchers to develop and synthesize nanosized materials with unique physicochemical characteristics, suitable for various biomedical applications. Amongst these nanomaterials, metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) have gained increasing interest due to their excellent properties, which to a great extent differ from their bulk counterpart. However, despite such positive advantages, a substantial body of literature reports on their cytotoxic effects, which are directly correlated to the nanoparticles’ physicochemical properties, therefore, better control over the synthetic parameters will not only lead to favorable surface characteristics but may also increase biocompatibility and consequently lower cytotoxicity. Taking into consideration the enormous biomedical potential of MONPs, the present review will discuss the most recent developments in this field referring mainly to synthesis methods, physical and chemical characterization and biological effects, including the pro-regenerative and antitumor potentials as well as antibacterial activity. Moreover, the last section of the review will tackle the pressing issue of the toxic effects of MONPs on various tissues/organs and cell lines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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14 pages, 2722 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of Woven Tracheal Stents: Materials, Structures, and Application

by Chen Xu, Yanxue Ma, Haihua Huang, Zheng Ruan and Yuling Li

J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(3), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13030096 - 16 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3121

Abstract

The repair and reconstruction of tracheal defects is a challenging clinical problem. Due to the wide choice of materials and structures, weaving technology has shown unique advantages in simulating the multilayer structure of the trachea and providing reliable performance. Currently, most woven stent-based stents focus only on the effect of materials on stent performance while ignoring the direct effect of woven process parameters on stent performance, and the advantages of weaving technology in tissue regeneration have not been fully exploited. Therefore, this review will introduce the effects of stent materials and fabric construction on the performance of tracheal stents, focusing on the effects of weaving process parameters on stent performance. We will summarize the problems faced by woven stents and possible directions of development in the hope of broadening the technical field of artificial trachea preparation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women in Science: Functional Biomaterials)

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