Journal of Applied Biomaterials & Functional Materials最新文献

Hydroxyapatite, renowned for its biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties, plays a fundamental role in bone regeneration owing to its resemblance to natural bone mineral, thus offering considerable potential for advancing tissue engineering strategies. In this article, the innovative integration of silicon ions into biogenic (bovine-derived) hydroxyapatite (SiBHA) via a tailored sol-gel process is reported. The resultant SiBHA scaffolds exhibited an interconnected microporous structure with a total porosity of 70% and pore dimensions ranging from 120 to 650 µm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies validated the effective incorporation of silicon ions into the BHA lattice, with energy-dispersive X-ray and inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry further confirming a Ca/P molar ratio for SiBHA between 1.63 and 1.74. Moreover, SiBHA scaffolds demonstrated commendable chemical and thermal stability. Of note, SiBHA scaffolds were found to display significantly enhanced mechanical properties, including compressive strength and Young's modulus, compared to the control BHA scaffolds. In vitro assessments highlighted the capacity of SiBHA scaffolds to foster cell viability, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of Saos-2 cells. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a significant increase in osteonectin expression, a key bone matrix protein, after 14 days of incubation under osteogenic conditions. These findings highlight the biocompatibility and therapeutic potential of SiBHA scaffolds, suggesting their suitability as biomaterials for dental bone regeneration applications.

Teeth with molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) present demarcated opacities, which are structural alterations in the enamel, making them more porous and often resulting in dentin hypersensitivity (DH). New technologies have been developed for the management of MIH-affected teeth, including bioactive silicon materials, which could form new silicon-enriched hydroxyapatite crystals, reinforcing the structure, and acting as an obliterating agent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the formation of a mineral layer and changes in the demarcated opacities' color employing an intraoral Trios 4 scanner after using a new silicon-based bioactive clinical system plus calcium in 11 children with MIH. DH was assessed with the VAS and SCASS scales at baseline, 15, and 30 days. Intraoral scanning revealed the formation of a mineral layer after 30 days, and significant DH reduction was observed (mean reductions: VAS 65% at 15 days and 83% at 30 days; SCASS 76% at 15 days and 94% at 30 days). Moreover, Cox regression analysis identified baseline pain severity as an independent predictor of a faster reduction in DH (adjusted HR = 0.06, p < 0.05). Color analysis suggested a lightening of the demarcated opacities. These results indicate that the new silicon-based bioactive clinical system plus calcium may effectively reduce DH and modify both enamel structure and opacity coloration in MIH-affected teeth. Longitudinal studies with larger samples are needed to assess the long-term effects.

Dental caries, a widespread global health problem, results from oral microbiome dysbiosis dominated by acidogenic pathogens like Streptococcus mutans. Conventional preventive methods, such as fluoride and antimicrobial rinses, often lack specificity and can disrupt beneficial microbes. Probiotics are live, health-promoting bacteria or yeasts commonly found in foods such as yogurt or in dietary supplements. They help restore microbial balance and have emerged as a promising strategy for caries management. This review explores the mechanisms, efficacy, and clinical applications of probiotics in caries prevention. Specific strains such as Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Streptococcus salivarius inhibit cariogenic bacteria through competitive exclusion, acidity modulation via arginine metabolism, and production of antimicrobial compounds like reuterin and bacteriocins. Clinical trials show that probiotic lozenges, gums, and dairy products reduce Streptococcus mutans counts and caries incidence in both children and adults. Challenges remain in optimizing strain selection, delivery methods, and ensuring long-term efficacy. Innovations include engineered probiotics with enhanced antimicrobial activity and synbiotics that combine probiotics with prebiotic fibers to improve colonization. While probiotics provide a safe, non-invasive adjunct to traditional approaches, further large-scale, well-designed longitudinal studies are essential to standardize protocols and understand their ecological effects on the oral microbiome. In summary, integrating probiotics into personalized oral care has the potential to revolutionize caries prevention by addressing microbial dysbiosis directly, shifting the focus from pathogen elimination to promoting a balanced microbiome. This highlights the significance of probiotics in supporting oral and dental health and potentially reducing the prevalence of caries worldwide.

Hemicelluloses are promising candidates for synthesizing nanosystems for potential biomedical and photocatalytic applications. Glucuronoxylan (hemicellulose)-capped manganese oxide nanoparticles (GX-MnO NPs) were synthesized from quince (Cydonia oblonga M.) seed hydrogel. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopic analysis revealed a distinct surface plasmon resonance peak at 310 nm for MnO NPs, with an estimated band gap energy of 2.60 eV. The interactions between MnO NPs and the functional groups of hydrogel were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, while the cubic structure was evident from X-ray diffraction results at 2θ location. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the NPs had a roughly spherical shape with an average size of 38.5 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum indicated the sample's composition, highlighting a significant presence of manganese (39.29%), oxygen (29.3%), and minor elements from hydrogel. The NPs displayed noteworthy in vitro antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against Bacillus licheniformis, Escherichia coli, and Aeromonas. An in vivo wound healing experiment illustrated that wounds treated with GX-MnO NPs healed entirely within 10 days in albino mice. Further, GX-MnO NPs served as an excellent photocatalytic system in the sunlight-assisted degradation of methylene blue (90.5%) and methyl orange (89.7%). Intriguingly, degradation efficiencies of 47.6% and 45.7% were achieved, respectively, when the NPs were operated in the dark. Thus, the study suggests GX-MnO NPs as versatile and promising agents to address biomedical and dye-contaminated wastewater concerns.

Postmastectomy breast reconstruction is limited by radiotherapy-induced tissue damage, as silicone implants are prone to capsular contracture, and autologous adipose grafts are limited by resorption and necrosis. In this study, two biomaterials were developed: an injectable decellularized omentum hydrogel-adipose composite (Adipose-dECM) using decellularized omentum hydrogel (dECM) bioactivity for tissue integration and an alginate-reinforced dECM hydrogel (Alg-dECM) for mechanical resilience. O-dECM, Adipose-dECM, Adipose, Alg-dECM, and Silicone were compared in a subcutaneous evaluation in female SD rats (n = 30). Half of the rats underwent radiotherapy (28 Gy) on day 16. The recorded outcomes included small-amplitude oscillatory shear rheology, scanning electron microscopy (porosity), enzymatic mass retention (collagenase), fibrous capsule thickness, inflammatory cell density, the ratio of type I to type III collagen, and angiogenesis. Adipose-dECM showed early postradiotherapy volume retention, although the results were not statistically significant. However, long-term retention decreased to 30.75% on day 50. Compared with the other implants, Adipose-dECM had the lowest inflammatory infiltration and reduced collagen I deposition, although its capsular thickness was similar. Enhanced angiogenesis was detected in Adipose-dECM, with significantly greater CD31+ areas in the peri-implant tissue (1.31% vs 0.10%, p < 0.0001) and septa (0.60% vs 0.07%, p < 0.0001). After radiotherapy, the CD31 level remained elevated in peri-implant regions (0.84% vs 0.34%, p = 0.0010) and septa (0.29% vs 0.06%, p = 0.0003). Adipose-dECM enhanced radiation tolerance through anti-inflammatory modulation and angiogenesis. Nevertheless, its long-term volumetric stability was substantially inferior to that of silicone, indicating the need for material-level strategies to slow degradation while preserving bioactivity. Adipose-dECM therefore shows promise as a radiation-compatible bioactive scaffold for breast reconstruction but requires further optimization for durable clinical translation.

Implant-associated infections pose a significant challenge in orthopedic surgery but may be prevented using biomaterials containing antimicrobial agents such as Ag ions. This study examines the effects of Ag doping on bone metabolism following the implantation of β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) doped with 0, 1, 3, and 5 at% Ag with 75% porosity. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of Ag-doped β-TCP was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli using shake flask tests, revealing increased antimicrobial activity with higher Ag concentrations. Cylindrical bone defects (diameter 4 mm; depth 10 mm) were introduced in the lateral femoral condyles of rabbits and treated with Ag-doped β-TCP. The rabbits were euthanized at 2-, 4-, 8-, and 12-weeks post-operation (n = 6/time point). Specimens were decalcified for histological examination using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Bone formation, residual material, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cell counts were quantified, with statistical significance assessed using one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05). Bone formation increased over time up to 12 weeks but was lower with higher Ag concentrations. Residual material decreased, while TRAP-positive cells peaked at 2 weeks and gradually declined thereafter. SEM revealed Ag accumulation in the bone marrow outside the newly formed bone. Ag doping inhibited material resorption more than osteogenesis. Bone metabolism in the defect area was delayed as Ag concentration increased, likely due to reduced osteoclast activity. This study highlights the dual effect of Ag-doped β-TCP on bone metabolism and implant-associated infections. While Ag incorporation enhanced antimicrobial potential, higher concentrations delayed bone metabolism. Optimizing Ag content is crucial to balancing infection control with effective bone regeneration, guiding the development of advanced orthopedic implants.

Premature loss of deciduous teeth often causes malocclusion and misalignment, requiring orthodontic treatment. Oral space maintainers (OSMs) help preserve space after primary teeth loss but are commonly metal, with limitations like esthetics, metal allergies, and complex production. This study aims to find an alternative by evaluating the esthetic and physical properties of CAD/CAM-produced PEEK OSMs compared to conventional OSMs. Forty digital oral space maintainer specimens were fabricated from Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), PEEK composites, LuxaCrown, and cobalt-chromium alloy, with 10 specimens in each group. Esthetic evaluation was conducted using a standard shade guide, and marginal fit was assessed with a stereo-microscope. Shear bond strength was tested on resins for primary and permanent molars. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. LuxaCrown matched natural tooth color best, followed by PEEK composites and PEEK, with cobalt-chromium showing the least similarity. LuxaCrown had the highest esthetic values, while PEEK and its composites showed acceptable marginal fits. Cobalt-chromium exhibited the highest shear bond strength. While PEEK has lower shear bond strength than cobalt-chromium, it shows promise as an esthetic alternative for pediatric space maintainers with acceptable fit. Further studies are needed to assess its long-term performance.

Background: Dental caries is a progressive disease with varying phases of demineralization and remineralization. If diagnosed before surface cavitation, the scope of reversing the carious lesion is increased.

Aim: To evaluate caries preventive and caries inhibitory potential of Aluminum Gallium Arsenide (Al Ga As ) Laser irradiation in incipient noncavitated pit and fissure caries.

Methodology: One hundred four patients between the age of 18-25 years exhibiting site 1 size 0, bilateral noncavitated carious lesions on mandibular molars were selected. The contralateral tooth type served as control. The quantitative baseline assessment of carious lesions of both the groups was by a Laser fluorescence method (DIAGNOdent). Group A (Test) cases were irradiated with Al Ga As laser of 3.5 W for 30 s followed by application of CPP-ACP F remineralizing paste. On the contralateral tooth type only remineralizing paste was applied and these cases were included In Group B (Control). The follow up was done by laser fluorescence (LF) and IOPA radiographs every 3 months for 12 months. Decrease or fall in laser fluorescence values from baseline values indicated remineralization.

Result: Categorical variables were presented in number and percentage (%) and continuous variables were presented as mean ± SD. Normality of data was tested by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Qualitative variables were compared using Chi-Square test /Fisher's exact test. Student's unpaired "t" test was applied to test the difference between mean values of two groups. Student's paired "t" test was applied to test the relative change between different time points. One-way ANOVA was applied to compare mean values between more than two groups followed by post hoc test "Tukeys HSD" for multiple comparisons. As per Lussi criteria, it was observed in Control group : 53 patients scored 4 and required operative intervention, 38 patients scored 3 which would necessitate repeating the remineralizing protocol, whereas Test group: 3 patients scored 4 and 5 patients scoring 3. Comparing the LF values, it was observed progression of caries denoted by increase in LF values in control was statistically significant with p value < 0.001 and SD of 7.04. Test group exhibited a fall in LF denoting caries reversal which was statistically significant with p value < 0.001 and SD of 5.80. The failure rate of Control was 51.5% and Test was 3%.

Conclusion: Based on the clinical results it was concluded that Al Ga As lasers can clinically bring about caries inhibition and can be a valuable tool in caries prevention.

Cardiovascular diseases represent a leading cause of mortality on a global scale. Engineered cardiac tissue applied as in vitro model have great potential on discovering myocardium pathology mechanisms and developing new drugs. Contemporary in vitro models, particularly traditional 2D cultures, face challenges in accurately replicating the complex architecture and functional behaviors of native myocardium. In this context, topographical cues-engineered through various fabrication methods, including direct laser writing, lithography, etching, self-organization, electrospinning, and 3D printing-have emerged as essential tools in cardiac tissue engineering (CTE). These cues can be incorporated into both 2D substrates and 3D scaffolds, significantly influencing the adhesion, morphology, migration, and functional properties of cardiomyocytes (CMs), including electrical conduction and contractility. In this paper, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI databases with keywords "cardiac tissue engineering, topography, nano pattern, micro pattern, biomaterials, cell orientation" for relevant studies published between 2010 and 2025. This work retrieved 127 studies, aiming to provide recent advancements in the application of topographical cues to influence the behavior of CMs and to establish a foundation for future developments in cardiac tissue engineering. Additionally, the review addresses the challenges associated with creating fully functional engineered cardiac tissues and offers perspectives on future advancements in this rapidly evolving field, emphasizing the necessity to enhance the performance of engineered cardiac tissues for disease modeling and regenerative therapies.