Previous
Aim:
To evaluate the precision of computer-assisted surgery simulation in mandibular condyle reconstruction using a costochondral graft.
Methods:
Ten patients (mean age: 14.5 years) with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology and associated pain were included in the study. All patients underwent TMJ reconstruction using costochondral grafts planned through computer-assisted surgical simulation. Preoperative assessment included mouth opening, facial asymmetry, and the differences between planned and actual mandibular positioning.
Results:
Postoperative mouth opening was significantly improved in all patients, and facial profile modifications were enhanced. The site of the costochondral graft relative to the glenoid fossa was found to be satisfactory in postoperative radiographs, computed tomography images, and quantitative analysis.
Conclusions:
The results of this study demonstrate that virtual surgical planning combined with 3D-printed guiding templates enhanced treatment planning, provided precise osteotomy guidance, facilitated accurate repositioning of bony segments, and improved the contouring of mandibular anatomy in the management of TMJ deformities (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06811415).
Aim:
To evaluate the precision of computer-assisted surgery simulation in mandibular condyle reconstruction using a costochondral graft.
Methods:
Ten patients (mean age: 14.5 years) with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathology and associated pain were included in the study. All patients underwent TMJ reconstruction using costochondral grafts planned through computer-assisted surgical simulation. Preoperative assessment included mouth opening, facial asymmetry, and the differences between planned and actual mandibular positioning.
Results:
Postoperative mouth opening was significantly improved in all patients, and facial profile modifications were enhanced. The site of the costochondral graft relative to the glenoid fossa was found to be satisfactory in postoperative radiographs, computed tomography images, and quantitative analysis.
Conclusions:
The results of this study demonstrate that virtual surgical planning combined with 3D-printed guiding templates enhanced treatment planning, provided precise osteotomy guidance, facilitated accurate repositioning of bony segments, and improved the contouring of mandibular anatomy in the management of TMJ deformities (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06811415).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101350
Graphene-based nanomaterials are promising candidates for neuromuscular regeneration due to their electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and functionalizability. In this perspective, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) or silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized via a one-step green process using Camellia sinensis (tea) extracts. The extracts acted as reducing and stabilizing agents and left bioactive catechins and polyphenols adsorbed on the graphene surface. The resulting nanocomposites combined structural support, electrical conductivity, and bioactive molecular modulation. rGO can provide scaffolding for cell growth, while the retained plant metabolites contributed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Incorporation of metallic nanoparticles enhanced mechanical strength, surface reactivity, and antimicrobial properties. These multifunctional graphene-metal nanocomposites offer a sustainable and biocompatible platform for guiding neuromuscular regeneration and represent a promising basis for future clinical translation.
Graphene-based nanomaterials are promising candidates for neuromuscular regeneration due to their electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and functionalizability. In this perspective, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposites decorated with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) or silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized via a one-step green process using Camellia sinensis (tea) extracts. The extracts acted as reducing and stabilizing agents and left bioactive catechins and polyphenols adsorbed on the graphene surface. The resulting nanocomposites combined structural support, electrical conductivity, and bioactive molecular modulation. rGO can provide scaffolding for cell growth, while the retained plant metabolites contributed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Incorporation of metallic nanoparticles enhanced mechanical strength, surface reactivity, and antimicrobial properties. These multifunctional graphene-metal nanocomposites offer a sustainable and biocompatible platform for guiding neuromuscular regeneration and represent a promising basis for future clinical translation.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101349
This article belongs to the special issue Green Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Indications for resection of maxillofacial and mandibular skeletal structures include extirpation of benign and malignant tumors, trauma, and congenital defects. Reconstruction of these structures often demands free tissue transfer incorporating bone and/or soft tissue with placement of rigid titanium implants to span the bony defect and anchor the autologous bone. Historically, such implants were mass-produced in standard formats, requiring manual bending during surgery to the patient’s specific bony anatomy. Recent technological and manufacturing advancements have permitted the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed, patient-specific maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive prosthetics and implants. Preoperative 3D printing of patient-specific prosthetics and implants composed of titanium has revolutionized maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive surgery and has been associated with improvements in operative efficiency, enhanced functional outcomes, and reduced complication rates in early studies. Herein, we review the history and current state of metal 3D printing of prosthetics and implants for head and neck oncologic reconstruction and posit future directions for innovation and surgical refinement in this area.
Indications for resection of maxillofacial and mandibular skeletal structures include extirpation of benign and malignant tumors, trauma, and congenital defects. Reconstruction of these structures often demands free tissue transfer incorporating bone and/or soft tissue with placement of rigid titanium implants to span the bony defect and anchor the autologous bone. Historically, such implants were mass-produced in standard formats, requiring manual bending during surgery to the patient’s specific bony anatomy. Recent technological and manufacturing advancements have permitted the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed, patient-specific maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive prosthetics and implants. Preoperative 3D printing of patient-specific prosthetics and implants composed of titanium has revolutionized maxillofacial and mandibular reconstructive surgery and has been associated with improvements in operative efficiency, enhanced functional outcomes, and reduced complication rates in early studies. Herein, we review the history and current state of metal 3D printing of prosthetics and implants for head and neck oncologic reconstruction and posit future directions for innovation and surgical refinement in this area.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101348
This article belongs to the special issue Metal 3D Printing of Biometals for Prostheses and Implants
Aim:
The high cost and weight of conventional metal pylons used in lower-limb prostheses limit accessibility and increase patient burden. This study evaluated whether a 3D-printed, polylactic acid (PLA) prosthetic pylon, incorporating a biomimetic lattice, meets ISO 10328 mechanical requirements and can serve as a lightweight, cost-effective alternative to metal pylons.
Methods:
A lattice shell inspired by the Euplectella aspergillum sponge architecture was designed to envelop a cylindrical core to mitigate failure under compression and torsion. Pylons were fabricated by fused deposition modeling (FDM) using PLA at 25% infill with a net pylon radius of 6.66 mm. Mechanical testing followed ISO 10328 protocols and included ultimate static compression, torsion, and cyclic compression (dynamic) tests. Performance metrics recorded included ultimate load capacity, cycle endurance, safety factors for compression and torsion, gross mass, and production material usage.
Results:
Optimized PLA pylons passed all ISO 10328 tests with no structural failure or visible defects. The pylons sustained a maximum static compression load of 7,901 N (ISO target: 4,480 N), completed > 3 million cycles under dynamic loading without failure, and achieved safety factors of 2.69 (compression) and 2.15 (torsion). The 3D-printed units weighed ~282 g, approximately 30% lighter than comparable metal pylons (~400 g), and material/geometry optimization reduced material use and manufacturing cost.
Conclusions:
PLA-based, 3D-printed pylons with a biomimetic lattice architecture demonstrate sufficient mechanical integrity to satisfy ISO 10328 requirements and offer a lightweight, lower-cost alternative to traditional metal pylons. These findings support further in-vitro and in-vivo validation and highlight the potential for additive manufacturing to expand prosthetic accessibility—particularly in resource-limited settings.
Aim:
The high cost and weight of conventional metal pylons used in lower-limb prostheses limit accessibility and increase patient burden. This study evaluated whether a 3D-printed, polylactic acid (PLA) prosthetic pylon, incorporating a biomimetic lattice, meets ISO 10328 mechanical requirements and can serve as a lightweight, cost-effective alternative to metal pylons.
Methods:
A lattice shell inspired by the Euplectella aspergillum sponge architecture was designed to envelop a cylindrical core to mitigate failure under compression and torsion. Pylons were fabricated by fused deposition modeling (FDM) using PLA at 25% infill with a net pylon radius of 6.66 mm. Mechanical testing followed ISO 10328 protocols and included ultimate static compression, torsion, and cyclic compression (dynamic) tests. Performance metrics recorded included ultimate load capacity, cycle endurance, safety factors for compression and torsion, gross mass, and production material usage.
Results:
Optimized PLA pylons passed all ISO 10328 tests with no structural failure or visible defects. The pylons sustained a maximum static compression load of 7,901 N (ISO target: 4,480 N), completed > 3 million cycles under dynamic loading without failure, and achieved safety factors of 2.69 (compression) and 2.15 (torsion). The 3D-printed units weighed ~282 g, approximately 30% lighter than comparable metal pylons (~400 g), and material/geometry optimization reduced material use and manufacturing cost.
Conclusions:
PLA-based, 3D-printed pylons with a biomimetic lattice architecture demonstrate sufficient mechanical integrity to satisfy ISO 10328 requirements and offer a lightweight, lower-cost alternative to traditional metal pylons. These findings support further in-vitro and in-vivo validation and highlight the potential for additive manufacturing to expand prosthetic accessibility—particularly in resource-limited settings.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101347
This article belongs to the special issue Metal 3D Printing of Biometals for Prostheses and Implants
Modeling cancer cell invasion requires physiologically relevant systems, yet traditional 2D/3D assays and animal models fail to capture the biochemical and mechanical complexity of the human extracellular matrix (ECM). The human amniotic membrane (AM) is a clinically approved, abundant, and immunologically privileged tissue with a rich ECM composition and favorable mechanical properties. Despite its extensive use in regenerative medicine, its potential as a cancer invasion scaffold remains underexplored. We propose repurposing decellularized AM (dAM) as a human-derived ECM platform to study tumor invasion. dAM retains structural proteins, growth factor reservoirs, and stiffness gradients that influence epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion pathways. Compared with conventional matrices, it offers improved biochemical fidelity and compatibility with patient-derived organoids. Key challenges, including donor variability, decellularization optimization, and reproducibility, are also addressed. dAM provides a non-invasive, scalable, and physiologically relevant tool for cancer invasion assays, drug screening, and patient-specific models. Its integration into oncology research may enhance translational relevance and accelerate personalized medicine.
Modeling cancer cell invasion requires physiologically relevant systems, yet traditional 2D/3D assays and animal models fail to capture the biochemical and mechanical complexity of the human extracellular matrix (ECM). The human amniotic membrane (AM) is a clinically approved, abundant, and immunologically privileged tissue with a rich ECM composition and favorable mechanical properties. Despite its extensive use in regenerative medicine, its potential as a cancer invasion scaffold remains underexplored. We propose repurposing decellularized AM (dAM) as a human-derived ECM platform to study tumor invasion. dAM retains structural proteins, growth factor reservoirs, and stiffness gradients that influence epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion pathways. Compared with conventional matrices, it offers improved biochemical fidelity and compatibility with patient-derived organoids. Key challenges, including donor variability, decellularization optimization, and reproducibility, are also addressed. dAM provides a non-invasive, scalable, and physiologically relevant tool for cancer invasion assays, drug screening, and patient-specific models. Its integration into oncology research may enhance translational relevance and accelerate personalized medicine.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101346
Aim:
The decellularization process aims to remove cellular components from the tissues while preserving the ultrastructural composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Decellularization of bone is gaining attention as a biological scaffold due to its unique histoarchitecture, which consists of both organic and inorganic compounds. This study aims to develop a biological bone ECM using a novel decellularization method for bone regeneration.
Methods:
Rabbit and rat bone tissues were decellularized using a novel process that combines physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods with 0.1% SDS. Bone tissues were evaluated in terms of histology, biochemistry, and biomechanical tests, both before and after decellularization. Additionally, decellularized bone substitutes were recellularized with preosteoblast cells to assess the cytotoxic effect of the decellularization process.
Results:
Our method effectively removes cellular components while preserving both organic and inorganic compounds. We achieved a 95% in DNA content for rabbit bone and 92% for rat bone. The biochemical and biomechanical properties remained unchanged, and mineralization features were preserved after decellularization. The cell culture results revealed that decellularized bone extracellular matrix (dbECM) is biocompatible, bioactive, and provides a suitable environment for cell growth.
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates that our novel decellularization method effectively develops biological bone ECM containing both organic and inorganic compounds while utilizing minimal chemical concentration and incubation time. It is foreseen that the resulting decellularized bone could serve as a biological substitute, providing a favorable microenvironment for bone regeneration.
Aim:
The decellularization process aims to remove cellular components from the tissues while preserving the ultrastructural composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Decellularization of bone is gaining attention as a biological scaffold due to its unique histoarchitecture, which consists of both organic and inorganic compounds. This study aims to develop a biological bone ECM using a novel decellularization method for bone regeneration.
Methods:
Rabbit and rat bone tissues were decellularized using a novel process that combines physical, chemical, and enzymatic methods with 0.1% SDS. Bone tissues were evaluated in terms of histology, biochemistry, and biomechanical tests, both before and after decellularization. Additionally, decellularized bone substitutes were recellularized with preosteoblast cells to assess the cytotoxic effect of the decellularization process.
Results:
Our method effectively removes cellular components while preserving both organic and inorganic compounds. We achieved a 95% in DNA content for rabbit bone and 92% for rat bone. The biochemical and biomechanical properties remained unchanged, and mineralization features were preserved after decellularization. The cell culture results revealed that decellularized bone extracellular matrix (dbECM) is biocompatible, bioactive, and provides a suitable environment for cell growth.
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates that our novel decellularization method effectively develops biological bone ECM containing both organic and inorganic compounds while utilizing minimal chemical concentration and incubation time. It is foreseen that the resulting decellularized bone could serve as a biological substitute, providing a favorable microenvironment for bone regeneration.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101345
This article belongs to the special issue Nature-Based Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications
This review presents key molecular biology techniques used to investigate interactions between biomaterials and biological systems, emphasizing their role in evaluating biocompatibility and cellular responses. We focus on methodologies such as recombinant DNA technology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in situ hybridization, immunocytochemistry (ICC), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). These tools enable the detection and quantification of gene and protein expression, particularly those involved in inflammation and tissue regeneration, providing molecular-level insights into how cells respond to biomaterial cues. We discuss the relevance of these techniques in identifying inflammatory markers, tracking cell differentiation, and understanding tissue integration processes, as well as how their implementation faces technical challenges, including interference from the physicochemical properties of biomaterials, difficulties in sample preparation, and the standardization of protocols across different platforms. Addressing these limitations is vital to ensure data reliability and reproducibility. Looking ahead, we highlight emerging opportunities involving the integration of 3D imaging technologies and artificial intelligence to manage and interpret high-dimensional biological data. This article also serves as a practical tool for emerging investigators who are entering the field of biomaterials, offering accessible guidance on the selection and application of essential molecular biology techniques. These innovations promise to accelerate the rational design of biomaterials tailored to specific clinical applications and patient needs. In conclusion, molecular biology techniques provide a foundational toolkit for characterizing biological responses to biomaterials, supporting the development of safer and more effective therapeutic materials and empowering emerging investigators to contribute meaningfully to the next generation of biomedical solutions.
This review presents key molecular biology techniques used to investigate interactions between biomaterials and biological systems, emphasizing their role in evaluating biocompatibility and cellular responses. We focus on methodologies such as recombinant DNA technology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in situ hybridization, immunocytochemistry (ICC), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). These tools enable the detection and quantification of gene and protein expression, particularly those involved in inflammation and tissue regeneration, providing molecular-level insights into how cells respond to biomaterial cues. We discuss the relevance of these techniques in identifying inflammatory markers, tracking cell differentiation, and understanding tissue integration processes, as well as how their implementation faces technical challenges, including interference from the physicochemical properties of biomaterials, difficulties in sample preparation, and the standardization of protocols across different platforms. Addressing these limitations is vital to ensure data reliability and reproducibility. Looking ahead, we highlight emerging opportunities involving the integration of 3D imaging technologies and artificial intelligence to manage and interpret high-dimensional biological data. This article also serves as a practical tool for emerging investigators who are entering the field of biomaterials, offering accessible guidance on the selection and application of essential molecular biology techniques. These innovations promise to accelerate the rational design of biomaterials tailored to specific clinical applications and patient needs. In conclusion, molecular biology techniques provide a foundational toolkit for characterizing biological responses to biomaterials, supporting the development of safer and more effective therapeutic materials and empowering emerging investigators to contribute meaningfully to the next generation of biomedical solutions.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101344
Aim:
Plants possess tremendous medicinal properties which have been supposed to be promising candidates for biomedical applications, especially in the field of nanobiotechnology. To analyze one such view, the current study was adopted to synthesize gold nanoparticles (Au*nps) by employing the extract of Murraya koenigii (EMk) for the evaluation of phenolics, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hemolytic, and biocompatible activities.
Methods:
The synthesis process was carried out in a single step by mixing EMk and gold salt (Au salt) solution and monitored using UV/Visible spectroscopy. The process was optimized via variation in environmental variables. Characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) were employed. In vitro biological activities (total phenolic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hemolytic) using different concentrations of Au*nps along with EMk were assessed. An in vivo histopathology study on Wistar rats was analyzed.
Results:
The band of Au*nps was observed at 540 nm, which showed successful synthesis. The FTIR spectra of Au*nps indicated the role of different functional groups (alkane, aromatic ester, thiol, nitro, and aldehyde) of EMk during synthesis. The TEM analysis illustrated a 50 nm size of Au*nps; SEM showed the presence of some aggregates; EDX represented elemental nature, and XRD proved the crystalline nature of these Au*nps. The Au*nps possessed significant phenolic content and displayed prominent antioxidant activities by quenching free radicals. Similarly, momentous inhibitory action was observed against microbial strains of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. The hemolytic study showed the least to non-toxic effect of these nanoparticles on red blood cells (RBCs) even at enhanced concentration. Histopathology study showed fair compatibility without inducing any apparent pathological lesions on the liver tissues of Wistar rats.
Conclusions:
Plausibly, all the above investigations strongly emphasized the use of medicinal plant-based Au*nps for biological applications.
Aim:
Plants possess tremendous medicinal properties which have been supposed to be promising candidates for biomedical applications, especially in the field of nanobiotechnology. To analyze one such view, the current study was adopted to synthesize gold nanoparticles (Au*nps) by employing the extract of Murraya koenigii (EMk) for the evaluation of phenolics, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hemolytic, and biocompatible activities.
Methods:
The synthesis process was carried out in a single step by mixing EMk and gold salt (Au salt) solution and monitored using UV/Visible spectroscopy. The process was optimized via variation in environmental variables. Characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and energy dispersive X-rays (EDX) were employed. In vitro biological activities (total phenolic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and hemolytic) using different concentrations of Au*nps along with EMk were assessed. An in vivo histopathology study on Wistar rats was analyzed.
Results:
The band of Au*nps was observed at 540 nm, which showed successful synthesis. The FTIR spectra of Au*nps indicated the role of different functional groups (alkane, aromatic ester, thiol, nitro, and aldehyde) of EMk during synthesis. The TEM analysis illustrated a 50 nm size of Au*nps; SEM showed the presence of some aggregates; EDX represented elemental nature, and XRD proved the crystalline nature of these Au*nps. The Au*nps possessed significant phenolic content and displayed prominent antioxidant activities by quenching free radicals. Similarly, momentous inhibitory action was observed against microbial strains of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. The hemolytic study showed the least to non-toxic effect of these nanoparticles on red blood cells (RBCs) even at enhanced concentration. Histopathology study showed fair compatibility without inducing any apparent pathological lesions on the liver tissues of Wistar rats.
Conclusions:
Plausibly, all the above investigations strongly emphasized the use of medicinal plant-based Au*nps for biological applications.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101343
This article belongs to the special issue Green Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Polymer-based nanoparticles have emerged as powerful multifunctional platforms in cancer theranostics, offering the ability to integrate diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy within a single system. These nanocarriers enable improved tumor localization, enhanced contrast agent delivery, and controlled therapeutic release, addressing limitations associated with conventional contrast agents such as poor specificity, rapid clearance, and systemic toxicity. Advances in polymer chemistry and nanoparticle fabrication methods, including solvent evaporation, nanoprecipitation, emulsion-diffusion, and emulsion polymerization, have allowed precise control over particle size, surface charge, and drug-loading efficiency, optimizing biodistribution and imaging performance. Hybrid polymer-inorganic nanoparticles further expand functionality by incorporating magnetic, optical, or radiopaque components, enabling multimodal imaging and stimuli-responsive drug release while maintaining biocompatibility. Key factors influencing the efficiency of polymer nanoparticle-based contrast agents include physicochemical properties such as particle size, morphology, surface functionalization, and responsiveness to tumor microenvironmental stimuli. These attributes collectively govern circulation time, cellular uptake, and accumulation in tumor tissues via passive and active targeting strategies. While promising, the clinical translation of these systems faces challenges including immunogenicity, pharmacokinetic variability, long-term safety concerns, and manufacturing scalability. Recent innovations in ligand functionalization, biomimetic coatings, and multifunctional nanoparticle design continue to advance therapeutic specificity and imaging precision, positioning polymer nanoparticles as versatile candidates for personalized oncologic care. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current methods for contrast agent integration, the role of physicochemical properties in performance, biological interactions, safety considerations, recent design innovations, translational barriers, and future research directions for polymer nanoparticle-based cancer theranostics.
Polymer-based nanoparticles have emerged as powerful multifunctional platforms in cancer theranostics, offering the ability to integrate diagnostic imaging and targeted therapy within a single system. These nanocarriers enable improved tumor localization, enhanced contrast agent delivery, and controlled therapeutic release, addressing limitations associated with conventional contrast agents such as poor specificity, rapid clearance, and systemic toxicity. Advances in polymer chemistry and nanoparticle fabrication methods, including solvent evaporation, nanoprecipitation, emulsion-diffusion, and emulsion polymerization, have allowed precise control over particle size, surface charge, and drug-loading efficiency, optimizing biodistribution and imaging performance. Hybrid polymer-inorganic nanoparticles further expand functionality by incorporating magnetic, optical, or radiopaque components, enabling multimodal imaging and stimuli-responsive drug release while maintaining biocompatibility. Key factors influencing the efficiency of polymer nanoparticle-based contrast agents include physicochemical properties such as particle size, morphology, surface functionalization, and responsiveness to tumor microenvironmental stimuli. These attributes collectively govern circulation time, cellular uptake, and accumulation in tumor tissues via passive and active targeting strategies. While promising, the clinical translation of these systems faces challenges including immunogenicity, pharmacokinetic variability, long-term safety concerns, and manufacturing scalability. Recent innovations in ligand functionalization, biomimetic coatings, and multifunctional nanoparticle design continue to advance therapeutic specificity and imaging precision, positioning polymer nanoparticles as versatile candidates for personalized oncologic care. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current methods for contrast agent integration, the role of physicochemical properties in performance, biological interactions, safety considerations, recent design innovations, translational barriers, and future research directions for polymer nanoparticle-based cancer theranostics.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101342
Aim:
Zinc is essential for normal bone growth and can promote bone regeneration. Processed human bone allograft treated with zinc shows improved bone formation activity. Various factors were tested for effects on zinc binding to bone allograft with the long-term goal of developing methods to enhance the bone formation activity and safety of bone allograft in orthopaedic applications.
Methods:
The amount of zinc bound to allograft was measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Fluorescent visualization of zinc bound to allograft was accomplished using Zinpyr-1. The potential anti-microbial property of zinc-treated allograft was measured by exposing allograft to Staphylococcus aureus. After washing, the exposed allograft was cultured in bacterial media to measure residual Staphylococcus aureus. Data were analyzed using standard parametric methods.
Results:
Rapid binding of zinc to bone allograft (1–15 min) was relatively insensitive to zinc concentration, incubation time, pH, or divalent cation competition. In contrast, zinc salt counter ions had significant effects, with zinc acetate producing more rapid zinc binding than zinc chloride or zinc picolinate. The ability of Staphylococcus aureus to contaminate bone allograft was also significantly reduced by prior zinc treatment.
Conclusions:
The study results provide guidelines for modifying the processing of bone allograft to enhance bone formation activity while also improving the resistance of the allograft to bacterial contamination.
Aim:
Zinc is essential for normal bone growth and can promote bone regeneration. Processed human bone allograft treated with zinc shows improved bone formation activity. Various factors were tested for effects on zinc binding to bone allograft with the long-term goal of developing methods to enhance the bone formation activity and safety of bone allograft in orthopaedic applications.
Methods:
The amount of zinc bound to allograft was measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Fluorescent visualization of zinc bound to allograft was accomplished using Zinpyr-1. The potential anti-microbial property of zinc-treated allograft was measured by exposing allograft to Staphylococcus aureus. After washing, the exposed allograft was cultured in bacterial media to measure residual Staphylococcus aureus. Data were analyzed using standard parametric methods.
Results:
Rapid binding of zinc to bone allograft (1–15 min) was relatively insensitive to zinc concentration, incubation time, pH, or divalent cation competition. In contrast, zinc salt counter ions had significant effects, with zinc acetate producing more rapid zinc binding than zinc chloride or zinc picolinate. The ability of Staphylococcus aureus to contaminate bone allograft was also significantly reduced by prior zinc treatment.
Conclusions:
The study results provide guidelines for modifying the processing of bone allograft to enhance bone formation activity while also improving the resistance of the allograft to bacterial contamination.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101341
Bone tissue engineering (BTE) represents a cutting-edge approach to treating critical-sized bone defects, complex fractures, and degenerative bone diseases by promoting the regeneration of functional bone tissue. A crucial element in this process is the design and optimization of scaffolds that emulate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), supporting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation necessary for bone regeneration. Polymers are widely used in scaffold fabrication. They offer versatility, biocompatibility, and tunable properties that are essential for tissue engineering. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of polymeric scaffolds in BTE, focusing on synthetic and natural polymers, composite scaffold designs, and the fabrication techniques employed to enhance their performance. Key design criteria, such as scaffold porosity, mechanical properties, and biodegradability, are discussed in the context of facilitating optimal bone regeneration. Additionally, we explore functionalization strategies to improve biological interactions, such as the incorporation of growth factors and surface modifications, and evaluate in vivo performance to highlight clinical potential. The paper also addresses current challenges, including the need for enhanced mechanical strength and controlled degradation, while offering insights into future directions for the development of polymeric scaffolds in bone tissue regeneration therapies.
Bone tissue engineering (BTE) represents a cutting-edge approach to treating critical-sized bone defects, complex fractures, and degenerative bone diseases by promoting the regeneration of functional bone tissue. A crucial element in this process is the design and optimization of scaffolds that emulate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), supporting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation necessary for bone regeneration. Polymers are widely used in scaffold fabrication. They offer versatility, biocompatibility, and tunable properties that are essential for tissue engineering. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of polymeric scaffolds in BTE, focusing on synthetic and natural polymers, composite scaffold designs, and the fabrication techniques employed to enhance their performance. Key design criteria, such as scaffold porosity, mechanical properties, and biodegradability, are discussed in the context of facilitating optimal bone regeneration. Additionally, we explore functionalization strategies to improve biological interactions, such as the incorporation of growth factors and surface modifications, and evaluate in vivo performance to highlight clinical potential. The paper also addresses current challenges, including the need for enhanced mechanical strength and controlled degradation, while offering insights into future directions for the development of polymeric scaffolds in bone tissue regeneration therapies.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101340
This article belongs to the special issue Bioinspired Material for Regenerative Medicine
Aim:
Acute cutaneous injuries and refractory chronic wounds represent prevalent clinical challenges in daily life. To address the impediments to wound healing, we propose a novel hydrogel-based therapeutic approach designed to prevent bacterial invasion, mitigate infection-induced persistent inflammatory responses, and reduce excessive oxidative stress, thereby enhancing the wound healing process.
Methods:
This study presents a method for preparing hyaluronic acid/silk fibroin (HA/SF) composite hydrogels via photo-crosslinking. HA and SF were respectively modified via methacrylation and glycidyl methacrylate to synthesize HAMA and SFMA. Mussel-inspired catechol groups were then grafted onto HAMA chain segments to prepare precursor HAC. Under photo-initiator LAP, polymerization was triggered to ultimately form a hydrogel network integrating mechanical toughness and tissue adhesiveness. Composite hydrogels with varying degrees of crosslinking are synthesized by adjusting the SFMA content.
Results:
The results demonstrate that this hydrogel can effectively achieve hemostasis within 20 seconds. Lap shear testing revealed that the HASF-gel-2 hydrogel exhibited the highest maximum adhesive strength of 160.3 kPa among all experimental groups. Furthermore, while the cell viability of the control group was normalized to 1, the composite hydrogel groups displayed values of 1.015, 1.085, 1.136, and 1.263, respectively, indicating favorable biocompatibility. The appropriate incorporation of SF was shown to enhance cellular proliferation. On day 3 post-wounding, the HASF hydrogel group demonstrated a wound closure rate of 41.7%, outperforming commercial products under identical conditions.
Conclusions:
In rat wound models, the HASF composite hydrogel significantly accelerated wound healing progression.
Aim:
Acute cutaneous injuries and refractory chronic wounds represent prevalent clinical challenges in daily life. To address the impediments to wound healing, we propose a novel hydrogel-based therapeutic approach designed to prevent bacterial invasion, mitigate infection-induced persistent inflammatory responses, and reduce excessive oxidative stress, thereby enhancing the wound healing process.
Methods:
This study presents a method for preparing hyaluronic acid/silk fibroin (HA/SF) composite hydrogels via photo-crosslinking. HA and SF were respectively modified via methacrylation and glycidyl methacrylate to synthesize HAMA and SFMA. Mussel-inspired catechol groups were then grafted onto HAMA chain segments to prepare precursor HAC. Under photo-initiator LAP, polymerization was triggered to ultimately form a hydrogel network integrating mechanical toughness and tissue adhesiveness. Composite hydrogels with varying degrees of crosslinking are synthesized by adjusting the SFMA content.
Results:
The results demonstrate that this hydrogel can effectively achieve hemostasis within 20 seconds. Lap shear testing revealed that the HASF-gel-2 hydrogel exhibited the highest maximum adhesive strength of 160.3 kPa among all experimental groups. Furthermore, while the cell viability of the control group was normalized to 1, the composite hydrogel groups displayed values of 1.015, 1.085, 1.136, and 1.263, respectively, indicating favorable biocompatibility. The appropriate incorporation of SF was shown to enhance cellular proliferation. On day 3 post-wounding, the HASF hydrogel group demonstrated a wound closure rate of 41.7%, outperforming commercial products under identical conditions.
Conclusions:
In rat wound models, the HASF composite hydrogel significantly accelerated wound healing progression.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101339
Metal 3D printing has revolutionized the fabrication of biometallic prostheses and implants, offering unprecedented design flexibility, patient-specific customization, and enhanced biomechanical performance. This review explores the current advancements in metal additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, including selective laser melting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM), fused deposition modeling (FDM), directed energy deposition (DED), sheet lamination, stereolithography (SLA), and binder jetting, for processing biocompatible metals such as titanium, cobalt-chromium, and stainless steel. The article discusses major benefits, such as enhanced osseointegration, complex lattice architectures for weight saving, and optimized mechanical properties. The challenges of residual stresses, surface finish, and regulatory issues are also discussed. The review concludes by defining future research avenues in material design, process development, and clinical translation to increase the efficacy and reliability of 3D-printed biometal implants.
Metal 3D printing has revolutionized the fabrication of biometallic prostheses and implants, offering unprecedented design flexibility, patient-specific customization, and enhanced biomechanical performance. This review explores the current advancements in metal additive manufacturing (AM) techniques, including selective laser melting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM), fused deposition modeling (FDM), directed energy deposition (DED), sheet lamination, stereolithography (SLA), and binder jetting, for processing biocompatible metals such as titanium, cobalt-chromium, and stainless steel. The article discusses major benefits, such as enhanced osseointegration, complex lattice architectures for weight saving, and optimized mechanical properties. The challenges of residual stresses, surface finish, and regulatory issues are also discussed. The review concludes by defining future research avenues in material design, process development, and clinical translation to increase the efficacy and reliability of 3D-printed biometal implants.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101338
This article belongs to the special issue Metal 3D Printing of Biometals for Prostheses and Implants
This review highlights the challenges of current wound healing methods, such as scar formation and limited regeneration, and emphasizes the potential of tissue engineering to address these issues. Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin, has garnered significant attention in epidermal-dermal wound healing due to its exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatile functional properties. This review article delves into the diverse roles of chitosan, with a particular focus on its use as a scaffold material with fine-tunable physicochemical and biological properties for accelerated wound healing. While bare chitosan provides a suitable microenvironment for cell adhesion and proliferation, it exhibits limited mechanical strength and drug-delivery properties. However, combining it with other natural and synthetic polymers and nanoparticles facilitates drug and biosignal delivery and enhances biocompatibility and antibacterial activity. Furthermore, the review covers various chemical modifications of chitosan, including quaternization and methacrylation, to improve biocompatibility, water solubility and mechanical strength, for developing advanced wound dressings for effective skin regeneration. The review also discusses various types of smart chitosan hydrogels and the clinical translation of chitosan based scaffolds for wound healing and tissue regeneration applications. Finally, it discusses the integration of 3D bioprinting techniques for creating complex, cell-incorporated scaffolds for advanced wound healing therapies.
This review highlights the challenges of current wound healing methods, such as scar formation and limited regeneration, and emphasizes the potential of tissue engineering to address these issues. Chitosan, a biopolymer derived from chitin, has garnered significant attention in epidermal-dermal wound healing due to its exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatile functional properties. This review article delves into the diverse roles of chitosan, with a particular focus on its use as a scaffold material with fine-tunable physicochemical and biological properties for accelerated wound healing. While bare chitosan provides a suitable microenvironment for cell adhesion and proliferation, it exhibits limited mechanical strength and drug-delivery properties. However, combining it with other natural and synthetic polymers and nanoparticles facilitates drug and biosignal delivery and enhances biocompatibility and antibacterial activity. Furthermore, the review covers various chemical modifications of chitosan, including quaternization and methacrylation, to improve biocompatibility, water solubility and mechanical strength, for developing advanced wound dressings for effective skin regeneration. The review also discusses various types of smart chitosan hydrogels and the clinical translation of chitosan based scaffolds for wound healing and tissue regeneration applications. Finally, it discusses the integration of 3D bioprinting techniques for creating complex, cell-incorporated scaffolds for advanced wound healing therapies.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101336
This article belongs to the special issue Nature-Based Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications
Aim:
Multifunctional nanomaterials with photodynamic-sonodynamic therapy (PSDT) potential offer significant advantages in cancer treatment. However, designing and preparing single-component “two-in-one” multifunctional nanomaterials remains challenging. Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME), a second-generation porphyrin-related sonosensitizer, is a porphyrin derivative with two asymmetric carboxyl groups. Notably, the carboxyl groups in HMME can coordinate with metal ions to construct metal-organic coordination nanomaterials (MCPs). Titanium (Ti), a biocompatible metal element, is commonly used in medical devices such as implantable metal alloys. Therefore, this study reported the synthesis of “two-in-one” type Ti-HMME coordination nanomaterials (TiCPs) as efficient nanoscale photo/sonosensitizers.
Methods:
Under a nitrogen atmosphere, TiCPs were synthesized via self-assembly between HMME and Ti4+ ions.
Results:
The average particle size of TiCPs was approximately 70 nm. Additionally, TiCPs contained the photo/sonosensitizer HMME, which could convert O2 into cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light and ultrasound (US) excitation. The generation of ROS could be detected using 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF). When the mixed solution (TiCPs + DPBF) was irradiated with light, the DPBF peak rapidly decreased with increasing irradiation time, indicating the production of ROS by TiCPs under light. Similarly, the absorbance of TiCPs + DPBF significantly decreased with increasing US time, demonstrating the sonodynamic effect of TiCPs + US. After 10 min of light or US excitation, 49.4% (Light) and 38.1% (US) of DPBF were oxidized by ROS generated by TiCPs, showcasing excellent photodynamic/sonodynamic effects. In vitro cell experiments further demonstrated that TiCPs had excellent biocompatibility, could be effectively internalized by cells, and significantly reduced cell viability under light and US excitation, effectively killing tumor cells.
Conclusions:
This study not only demonstrated TiCPs as “two-in-one” type multifunctional nanomaterials for PSDT but also provided insights into designing other photo/sonosensitizer molecules with similar HMME structures for tumor theranostics.
Aim:
Multifunctional nanomaterials with photodynamic-sonodynamic therapy (PSDT) potential offer significant advantages in cancer treatment. However, designing and preparing single-component “two-in-one” multifunctional nanomaterials remains challenging. Hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME), a second-generation porphyrin-related sonosensitizer, is a porphyrin derivative with two asymmetric carboxyl groups. Notably, the carboxyl groups in HMME can coordinate with metal ions to construct metal-organic coordination nanomaterials (MCPs). Titanium (Ti), a biocompatible metal element, is commonly used in medical devices such as implantable metal alloys. Therefore, this study reported the synthesis of “two-in-one” type Ti-HMME coordination nanomaterials (TiCPs) as efficient nanoscale photo/sonosensitizers.
Methods:
Under a nitrogen atmosphere, TiCPs were synthesized via self-assembly between HMME and Ti4+ ions.
Results:
The average particle size of TiCPs was approximately 70 nm. Additionally, TiCPs contained the photo/sonosensitizer HMME, which could convert O2 into cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light and ultrasound (US) excitation. The generation of ROS could be detected using 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF). When the mixed solution (TiCPs + DPBF) was irradiated with light, the DPBF peak rapidly decreased with increasing irradiation time, indicating the production of ROS by TiCPs under light. Similarly, the absorbance of TiCPs + DPBF significantly decreased with increasing US time, demonstrating the sonodynamic effect of TiCPs + US. After 10 min of light or US excitation, 49.4% (Light) and 38.1% (US) of DPBF were oxidized by ROS generated by TiCPs, showcasing excellent photodynamic/sonodynamic effects. In vitro cell experiments further demonstrated that TiCPs had excellent biocompatibility, could be effectively internalized by cells, and significantly reduced cell viability under light and US excitation, effectively killing tumor cells.
Conclusions:
This study not only demonstrated TiCPs as “two-in-one” type multifunctional nanomaterials for PSDT but also provided insights into designing other photo/sonosensitizer molecules with similar HMME structures for tumor theranostics.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101337
Aim:
This study evaluated the impact of retinal extracellular matrix (ECM) and key biomaterial substrates on the motility of transplantable retinal cells with genomic manipulation, using the therapeutic molecule, Topoisomerase II beta (Top2b), as a model.
Methods:
Tests first applied in ovo electroporation to examine the effects of a pharmacological Top2b inhibitor (ICRF-193) on progenitor motility and development of embryonic retina. Complementary qRT-PCR tests measured changes in select cadherin molecules in response to treatment. In vitro transfection produced cultured retinal progenitor cell groups with Top2b overexpression and Top2b knockdown. Differences in the adhesion and motility of Top2b altered groups, compared to wildtype cells, were measured upon biomaterial substrates used in emerging transplantation matrixes.
Results:
Data illustrated significant differences in the number and spacing of retinal ganglion cells when retina was treated with ICRF-193, as well as downregulation of several key cadherin molecules. Cultured retinal progenitors with Top2b knockdown and Top2b overexpression exhibited different expression of chemotactic receptors, adhesion parameters, and modalities of migration upon substrates of laminin, poly-L-lysine, and collagen IV. Significant changes in cell morphology and surface area were also measured compared to wildtype cells.
Conclusions:
Corroborating in vivo and in vitro data support Top2b as a therapeutic target for retinal progenitor motility but indicate significant differences in the migration of Top2b altered cells upon substrates used in transplantation. These data highlight the therapeutic advantages of bioinspired materials developed to aid the motility of replacement cells with modified genetic expression to improve transplantation outcomes across the nervous system.
Aim:
This study evaluated the impact of retinal extracellular matrix (ECM) and key biomaterial substrates on the motility of transplantable retinal cells with genomic manipulation, using the therapeutic molecule, Topoisomerase II beta (Top2b), as a model.
Methods:
Tests first applied in ovo electroporation to examine the effects of a pharmacological Top2b inhibitor (ICRF-193) on progenitor motility and development of embryonic retina. Complementary qRT-PCR tests measured changes in select cadherin molecules in response to treatment. In vitro transfection produced cultured retinal progenitor cell groups with Top2b overexpression and Top2b knockdown. Differences in the adhesion and motility of Top2b altered groups, compared to wildtype cells, were measured upon biomaterial substrates used in emerging transplantation matrixes.
Results:
Data illustrated significant differences in the number and spacing of retinal ganglion cells when retina was treated with ICRF-193, as well as downregulation of several key cadherin molecules. Cultured retinal progenitors with Top2b knockdown and Top2b overexpression exhibited different expression of chemotactic receptors, adhesion parameters, and modalities of migration upon substrates of laminin, poly-L-lysine, and collagen IV. Significant changes in cell morphology and surface area were also measured compared to wildtype cells.
Conclusions:
Corroborating in vivo and in vitro data support Top2b as a therapeutic target for retinal progenitor motility but indicate significant differences in the migration of Top2b altered cells upon substrates used in transplantation. These data highlight the therapeutic advantages of bioinspired materials developed to aid the motility of replacement cells with modified genetic expression to improve transplantation outcomes across the nervous system.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101335
This article belongs to the special issue Bioinspired Material for Regenerative Medicine
Aim:
The purpose of this study is to investigate the deformability and strength of silicone breast implant shells from different manufactures as a function of implantation time.
Methods:
The strength properties of about 200 shells of Eurosilicone, Mentor, Motiva, Allergan, Arion, PIP silicone breast implants removed for various reasons during repeated surgeries with a period of stay in the body from 6 months to 29 years were measured and compared with the corresponding properties of four shells of unused Eurosilicone and Motiva implants. Deformation was measured using a videoXtens extensometer.
Results:
The mechanical properties of the Allergan implant shell are almost completely consistent with the properties of the Eurosilicone shell after 9 years of use. The Mentor implants showed greater strength and stiffness. The Motiva implant shells initially had higher ultimate properties—rupture stress and rupture strain—in comparison with the Eurosilicone implant shells.
Conclusions:
The strength and deformation properties of all examined breast implant shells decrease in the course of time. After 13 years of use, the strength of breast implants is halved and their rupture strain is reduced by one third. The main mechanism responsible for loss of strength is the accumulation of microdamages during long-term use of breast implants. The thickness of the nano-textured shells of Motiva implants is twice less of the Eurosilicone implant shell thickness. This was possible due to a significant increase in the mechanical properties of Motiva shells.
Aim:
The purpose of this study is to investigate the deformability and strength of silicone breast implant shells from different manufactures as a function of implantation time.
Methods:
The strength properties of about 200 shells of Eurosilicone, Mentor, Motiva, Allergan, Arion, PIP silicone breast implants removed for various reasons during repeated surgeries with a period of stay in the body from 6 months to 29 years were measured and compared with the corresponding properties of four shells of unused Eurosilicone and Motiva implants. Deformation was measured using a videoXtens extensometer.
Results:
The mechanical properties of the Allergan implant shell are almost completely consistent with the properties of the Eurosilicone shell after 9 years of use. The Mentor implants showed greater strength and stiffness. The Motiva implant shells initially had higher ultimate properties—rupture stress and rupture strain—in comparison with the Eurosilicone implant shells.
Conclusions:
The strength and deformation properties of all examined breast implant shells decrease in the course of time. After 13 years of use, the strength of breast implants is halved and their rupture strain is reduced by one third. The main mechanism responsible for loss of strength is the accumulation of microdamages during long-term use of breast implants. The thickness of the nano-textured shells of Motiva implants is twice less of the Eurosilicone implant shell thickness. This was possible due to a significant increase in the mechanical properties of Motiva shells.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101334
This article belongs to the special issue The Use of 2D Materials in Bio-tribology
Aim:
To show that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter can be used in the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) as an alternative to the existing VTE therapies, which have serious side effects.
Methods:
The wireless-powered thrombolytic filter that we propose combines the positive attributes of anticoagulants and thrombolytics, through the capture and dissolution of blood clots, without the associated adverse effects of existing treatments. The filter absorbs radio-frequency energy from a source and converts it into heat at the thrombolytic filter.
Results:
We used computer simulations with COMSOL and lab experiments to demonstrate that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter can be heated up through the absorption of radio-frequency energy from an external source.
Conclusions:
We demonstrate that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter has the potential to be used in the treatment of VTE, since it can be designed to absorb energy from an external radio-frequency source and convert it to heat that is sufficient to dissolve blood clots captured by the thrombolytic filter.
Aim:
To show that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter can be used in the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) as an alternative to the existing VTE therapies, which have serious side effects.
Methods:
The wireless-powered thrombolytic filter that we propose combines the positive attributes of anticoagulants and thrombolytics, through the capture and dissolution of blood clots, without the associated adverse effects of existing treatments. The filter absorbs radio-frequency energy from a source and converts it into heat at the thrombolytic filter.
Results:
We used computer simulations with COMSOL and lab experiments to demonstrate that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter can be heated up through the absorption of radio-frequency energy from an external source.
Conclusions:
We demonstrate that a wireless-powered thrombolytic filter has the potential to be used in the treatment of VTE, since it can be designed to absorb energy from an external radio-frequency source and convert it to heat that is sufficient to dissolve blood clots captured by the thrombolytic filter.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101333
This article belongs to the special issue Trends in Biomaterials Research for Cardiovascular Applications
Mineral nanoparticles and osteoinductive biomaterials are essential in advancing bone regeneration by addressing skeletal conditions and injuries that compromise structural integrity and functionality. These biomaterials stimulate the differentiation of precursor cells into osteoblasts, creating biocompatible environments conducive to bone tissue regeneration. Among the most promising innovations, mineral-based nanoparticles and nanocomposite hydrogels have emerged as effective strategies for enhancing osteoinductive potential. This review explores the diverse types of osteoinductive biomaterials, including natural sources, synthetic compounds, and hybrid designs that incorporate mineralized nanoparticles. Emphasis is placed on polymeric hydrogels as delivery platforms for these materials, highlighting their dual role as structural supports and bioactive agents that promote osteogenesis. Challenges such as immune rejection, biodegradability, mechanical stability, and short in vivo residence time are critically discussed, alongside their impact on clinical translation. By presenting a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms, applications, and limitations, this review identifies opportunities for integrating osteoinductive biomaterials with emerging fields like immunology and biomechanics. Ultimately, this work aims to provide actionable insights and advance the development of novel, clinically relevant solutions that improve patient outcomes and address the growing global need for effective bone repair and regeneration.
Mineral nanoparticles and osteoinductive biomaterials are essential in advancing bone regeneration by addressing skeletal conditions and injuries that compromise structural integrity and functionality. These biomaterials stimulate the differentiation of precursor cells into osteoblasts, creating biocompatible environments conducive to bone tissue regeneration. Among the most promising innovations, mineral-based nanoparticles and nanocomposite hydrogels have emerged as effective strategies for enhancing osteoinductive potential. This review explores the diverse types of osteoinductive biomaterials, including natural sources, synthetic compounds, and hybrid designs that incorporate mineralized nanoparticles. Emphasis is placed on polymeric hydrogels as delivery platforms for these materials, highlighting their dual role as structural supports and bioactive agents that promote osteogenesis. Challenges such as immune rejection, biodegradability, mechanical stability, and short in vivo residence time are critically discussed, alongside their impact on clinical translation. By presenting a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms, applications, and limitations, this review identifies opportunities for integrating osteoinductive biomaterials with emerging fields like immunology and biomechanics. Ultimately, this work aims to provide actionable insights and advance the development of novel, clinically relevant solutions that improve patient outcomes and address the growing global need for effective bone repair and regeneration.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101332
A potential solution for prosthetic heart valves is tissue-engineered heart valves. Tissue-engineered heart valves (TEHVs) are designed to replicate the complex properties found in natural tissues, such as stiffness, anisotropy, and composition and organization of cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). Electrospinning is regarded as a highly versatile and innovative approach for fabricating numerous fibrous designs. In this review, we discuss recent developments in electrospun heart valve scaffolds, including scaffold materials, cell types, and electrospinning setups used to prepare aligned nanofibers. Despite the fact that natural biomaterials provided excellent biocompatibility, nanofibers from synthetic materials provided the required mechanical compatibility. Accordingly, most studies highlighted the benefits of designing composite heart valves using biological and synthetic polymers. Various strategies, such as the application of motorized mandrel and micropatterned collector in electrospinning were effective in controlling nanofiber alignment. Studies also showed that aligned nanofiber’s mechanical strength and anisotropic structure promote cell proliferation, and differentiation, and promote attachment. Numerous studies have reported that multiple cell sources are suitable for producing heart valves. Successful results were obtained with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), since they provide a convenient cell source for cellularization of valve leaflets. A higher conductivity of scaffolds was achieved by using biomaterials that conduct electricity, such as polyaniline, polypyrrole, and carbon nanotubes, which resulted in better differentiation of precursor cells to cardiomyocytes and higher cell beating rates. In light of these attributes, nanofibrous scaffolds produced through electrospinning are expected to offer numerous advantages for tissue engineering and medical applications in the near future. However, multiple challenges were identified as cell infiltration and 2D nature of nanofiber mats necessitate further engineering approaches in electrospinning procedure leaflet production.
A potential solution for prosthetic heart valves is tissue-engineered heart valves. Tissue-engineered heart valves (TEHVs) are designed to replicate the complex properties found in natural tissues, such as stiffness, anisotropy, and composition and organization of cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). Electrospinning is regarded as a highly versatile and innovative approach for fabricating numerous fibrous designs. In this review, we discuss recent developments in electrospun heart valve scaffolds, including scaffold materials, cell types, and electrospinning setups used to prepare aligned nanofibers. Despite the fact that natural biomaterials provided excellent biocompatibility, nanofibers from synthetic materials provided the required mechanical compatibility. Accordingly, most studies highlighted the benefits of designing composite heart valves using biological and synthetic polymers. Various strategies, such as the application of motorized mandrel and micropatterned collector in electrospinning were effective in controlling nanofiber alignment. Studies also showed that aligned nanofiber’s mechanical strength and anisotropic structure promote cell proliferation, and differentiation, and promote attachment. Numerous studies have reported that multiple cell sources are suitable for producing heart valves. Successful results were obtained with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), since they provide a convenient cell source for cellularization of valve leaflets. A higher conductivity of scaffolds was achieved by using biomaterials that conduct electricity, such as polyaniline, polypyrrole, and carbon nanotubes, which resulted in better differentiation of precursor cells to cardiomyocytes and higher cell beating rates. In light of these attributes, nanofibrous scaffolds produced through electrospinning are expected to offer numerous advantages for tissue engineering and medical applications in the near future. However, multiple challenges were identified as cell infiltration and 2D nature of nanofiber mats necessitate further engineering approaches in electrospinning procedure leaflet production.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37349/ebmx.2025.101331
This article belongs to the special issue Trends in Biomaterials Research for Cardiovascular Applications
