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Hydrogels, known for their unique ability to retain large amounts of water, have emerged as pivotal materials in both tissue engineering and biosensing applications. This review provides an updated and comprehensive examination of cutting-edge hydrogel technologies and their multifaceted roles in these fields. Initially, the chemical composition and intrinsic properties of both natural and synthetic hydrogels are discussed, highlighting their biocompatibility and biodegradability. The manuscript then probes into innovative scaffold designs and fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and self-assembly methods, emphasizing their applications in regenerating bone, cartilage, skin, and neural tissues. In the realm of biosensing, hydrogels' responsive nature is explored through their integration into optical, electrochemical, and piezoelectric sensors. These sensors are instrumental in medical diagnostics for glucose monitoring, pathogen detection, and biomarker identification, as well as in environmental and industrial applications like pollution and food quality monitoring. Furthermore, the review explores cross-disciplinary innovations, including the use of hydrogels in wearable devices, and hybrid systems, and their potential in personalized medicine. By addressing current challenges and future directions, this review aims to underscore the transformative impact of hydrogel technologies in advancing healthcare and industrial practices, thereby providing a vital resource for researchers and practitioners in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Recent advancements in the field of biomedical engineering have underscored the pivotal role of biodegradable materials in addressing the challenges associated with tissue regeneration therapies. The spectrum of biodegradable materials presently encompasses ceramics, polymers, metals, and composites, each offering distinct advantages for the replacement or repair of compromised human tissues. Despite their utility, these biomaterials are not devoid of limitations, with issues such as suboptimal tissue integration, potential cytotoxicity, and mechanical mismatch (stress shielding) emerging as significant concerns. To mitigate these drawbacks, our research collective has embarked on the development of protein-based composite materials, showcasing enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility. This study is dedicated to the elaboration and characterization of an innovative suture fabricated from human serum albumin through an extrusion methodology. Employing a suite of analytical techniques—namely tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA)—we endeavored to elucidate the physicochemical attributes of the engineered suture. Additionally, the investigation extends to assessing the influence of integrating biodegradable organic modifiers on the suture's mechanical performance. Preliminary tensile testing has delineated the mechanical profile of the Filament Suture (FS), delineating tensile strengths spanning 1.3 to 9.616 MPa and elongation at break percentages ranging from 11.5 to 146.64%. These findings illuminate the mechanical versatility of the suture, hinting at its applicability across a broad spectrum of medical interventions. Subsequent analyses via SEM and TGA are anticipated to further delineate the suture’s morphological features and thermal resilience, thereby enriching our comprehension of its overall performance characteristics. Moreover, the investigation delves into the ramifications of incorporating biodegradable organic constituents on the suture's mechanical integrity. Collectively, the study not only sheds light on the mechanical and thermal dynamics of a novel suture material derived from human serum albumin but also explores the prospective enhancements afforded by the amalgamation of biodegradable organic compounds, thereby broadening the horizon for future biomedical applications.

Recent advancements in the field of biomedical engineering have underscored the pivotal role of biodegradable materials in addressing the challenges associated with tissue regeneration therapies. The spectrum of biodegradable materials presently encompasses ceramics, polymers, metals, and composites, each offering distinct advantages for the replacement or repair of compromised human tissues. Despite their utility, these biomaterials are not devoid of limitations, with issues such as suboptimal tissue integration, potential cytotoxicity, and mechanical mismatch (stress shielding) emerging as significant concerns. To mitigate these drawbacks, our research collective has embarked on the development of protein-based composite materials, showcasing enhanced biodegradability and biocompatibility. This study is dedicated to the elaboration and characterization of an innovative suture fabricated from human serum albumin through an extrusion methodology. Employing a suite of analytical techniques—namely tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA)—we endeavored to elucidate the physicochemical attributes of the engineered suture. Additionally, the investigation extends to assessing the influence of integrating biodegradable organic modifiers on the suture's mechanical performance. Preliminary tensile testing has delineated the mechanical profile of the Filament Suture (FS), delineating tensile strengths spanning 1.3 to 9.616 MPa and elongation at break percentages ranging from 11.5 to 146.64%. These findings illuminate the mechanical versatility of the suture, hinting at its applicability across a broad spectrum of medical interventions. Subsequent analyses via SEM and TGA are anticipated to further delineate the suture's morphological features and thermal resilience, thereby enriching our comprehension of its overall performance characteristics. Moreover, the investigation delves into the ramifications of incorporating biodegradable organic constituents on the suture's mechanical integrity. Collectively, the study not only sheds light on the mechanical and thermal dynamics of a novel suture material derived from human serum albumin but also explores the prospective enhancements afforded by the amalgamation of biodegradable organic compounds, thereby broadening the horizon for future biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels, known for their unique ability to retain large amounts of water, have emerged as pivotal materials in both tissue engineering and biosensing applications. This review provides an updated and comprehensive examination of cutting-edge hydrogel technologies and their multifaceted roles in these fields. Initially, the chemical composition and intrinsic properties of both natural and synthetic hydrogels are discussed, highlighting their biocompatibility and biodegradability. The manuscript then probes into innovative scaffold designs and fabrication techniques such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and self-assembly methods, emphasizing their applications in regenerating bone, cartilage, skin, and neural tissues. In the realm of biosensing, hydrogels’ responsive nature is explored through their integration into optical, electrochemical, and piezoelectric sensors. These sensors are instrumental in medical diagnostics for glucose monitoring, pathogen detection, and biomarker identification, as well as in environmental and industrial applications like pollution and food quality monitoring. Furthermore, the review explores cross-disciplinary innovations, including the use of hydrogels in wearable devices, and hybrid systems, and their potential in personalized medicine. By addressing current challenges and future directions, this review aims to underscore the transformative impact of hydrogel technologies in advancing healthcare and industrial practices, thereby providing a vital resource for researchers and practitioners in the field.

Developing biocompatible, non-fouling and biodegradable hydrogels for blood-contacting devices remains a demanding challenge. Such materials should promote natural healing, prevent clotting, and undergo controlled degradation. This study evaluates the biocompatibility and biodegradation of degradable poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (d-pHEMA) hydrogels with or without reinforcement with oxidized few-layer graphene (d-pHEMA/M5ox) in a long term implantation in rats, assessing non-desired side-effects (irritation, chronic toxicity, immune response). Subcutaneous implantation over 6 months revealed degradation of both hydrogels, despite slower for d-pHEMA/M5ox, with degradation products found in intracellular vesicles. No inflammation nor infection at implantation areas were observed, and no histopathological findings were detected in parenchymal organs. Immunohistochemistry confirmed d-pHEMA and d-pHEMA/M5ox highly anti-adhesiveness. Gene expression of macrophages markers revealed presence of both M1 and M2 macrophages at all timepoints. M1/M2 profile after 6 months reveals an anti-inflammatory environment, suggesting no chronic inflammation, as also demonstrated by cytokines (IL-α, TNF-α and IL-10) analysis. Overall, modification of pHEMA towards a degradable material was successfully achieved without evoking a loss of its inherent properties, specially its anti-adhesiveness and biocompatibility. Therefore, these hydrogels hold potential as blank-slate for further modifications that promote cellular adhesion/proliferation for tissue engineering applications, namely for designing blood contacting devices with different load bearing requirements. Biocompatibility, tunable biodegradation kinetics, and suitable immune response with lack of chronic toxicity and irritation, are key features in degradable blood contact devices that demand long-term exposure. We herein evaluate the 6-month in vivo performance of a degradable and hemocompatible anti-adhesive hydrogel based in pHEMA, and its mechanically reinforced formulation with few-layer graphene oxide. This subcutaneous implantation in a rat model, shows gradual degradation with progressive changes in material morphology, and no evidence of local inflammation in surrounding tissue, neither signs of inflammation or adverse reactions in systemic organs, suggesting biocompatibility of degradation products. Such hydrogels exhibit great potential as a blank slate for tissue engineering applications, including for blood contact, where cues for specific cells can be incorporated. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, injectable hydrogels have been considered smart materials and have been widely researched for their use as scaffolds. They resemble the extracellular matrix of native tissue and have the capability for homogeneous mixing with therapeutic agents. It can be implanted into living bodies with minimal invasiveness and usability for irregularly shaped sites. Such unique features make the injectable hydrogels as promising materials in tissue engineering, drug delivery system, and gene/protein delivery. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the different mechanisms employed in the preparation of injectable hydrogel, as well as a detailed exploration of its applications in the biomedical field. Furthermore, the article highlights the critical importance of developing injectable hydrogels as market‐viable products, highlighting their potential impact in the field of regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to investigate the relationship between porosity, mechanical and electrical properties, and bioactivity of dense and porous hardystonite (HT; Ca 2 ZnSi 2 O 7) bioceramic. Therefore, HT nanopowders were prepared to which different proportions of space holder agent were added and sintered. The microstructure of the resulting dense and porous samples was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties of all samples were measured. The bioactivity of the samples prepared after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 7 and 14 days was assessed by SEM. In addition, the relationship between the incubation duration and the electrical and dielectric properties of HT cultured in SBF solution has been examined. The SEM micrographs showed that the samples soaked in SBF for 7 days showed no bioactive behavior, thanks to the chemical stability of HT. However, prolonged soaking of the samples in SBF solution for 14 days considerably improved their bioactivity behavior. These results were related to the electrical conductivity of the samples, as the samples soaked for 7 days showed a slight decrease in their values as follows: 2.19, 2.68, 5.75, and 8.94%, while the electrical conductivity values increased for all samples soaked for 14 days by 7.35, 16.9, 19.6, and 26.5%. Importantly, a significant part of encouraging fracture healing is played by this enhanced electrical conductivity. The outcomes obtained provide hope for the future use of HT in bone tissue engineering purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their superior antibacterial properties, biocompatibility and high conductivity, nanomaterials have shown a broad prospect in the biomedical field and have been widely used in the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Also due to their small particle sizes and biodegradability, nanomaterials can provide solutions for tissue engineering, especially for oral tissue rehabilitation and regeneration. At present, research on nanomaterials in the field of dentistry focuses on the biological effects of various types of nanomaterials on different oral diseases and tissue engineering applications. In the current review, we have summarized the biological effects of nanoparticles on oral diseases, their potential action mechanisms and influencing factors. We have focused on the opportunities and challenges to various nanomaterial therapy strategies, with specific emphasis on overcoming the challenges through the development of biocompatible and smart nanomaterials. This review will provide references for potential clinical applications of novel nanomaterials in the field of oral medicine for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymeric scaffolds can be fabricated as microfilaments to replicate the mechanical characteristics and biological configuration of skeletal muscles and tendons. The microfilaments used in this research were fabricated from polycaprolactone (PCL) pellets by extrusion and a spooling system without using solvents. Their mechanical properties were investigated by applying monotonic and dynamic loads on aligned grouped microfilaments using a customized grip adapter. The fabrication method was simple and produced a homogeneous microfilament with a 90 ± 3 µm diameter. The monotonic tests showed the elasticity of the microfilaments was E = 1863 ± 590 MPa, and their yield strength was σy = 242 ± 45 MPa. The dynamic load test results showed that PCL microfilaments resisted periodic loads for 5.3×105 cycles, retaining a maximum deformation of 55%. The fabricated microfilament has the potential to be used as a biomimetic polymeric scaffold suitable for mechanical stimulation because of its outstanding mechanical behavior during dynamic loading conditions.

Due to their superior antibacterial properties, biocompatibility and high conductivity, nanomaterials have shown a broad prospect in the biomedical field and have been widely used in the prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Also due to their small particle sizes and biodegradability, nanomaterials can provide solutions for tissue engineering, especially for oral tissue rehabilitation and regeneration. At present, research on nanomaterials in the field of dentistry focuses on the biological effects of various types of nanomaterials on different oral diseases and tissue engineering applications. In the current review, we have summarized the biological effects of nanoparticles on oral diseases, their potential action mechanisms and influencing factors. We have focused on the opportunities and challenges to various nanomaterial therapy strategies, with specific emphasis on overcoming the challenges through the development of biocompatible and smart nanomaterials. This review will provide references for potential clinical applications of novel nanomaterials in the field of oral medicine for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases.

Electrospun fiber scaffolds has made a huge progress in tissue engineering applications owing to their continuous morphology with variable chemical, physical, and biological properties. In this review paper, we reviewed the electrospinning technique, its processing parameters and characterizations involved. A focus on shape memory poly (glycerol sebacate) (PGS)‐based electrospun fiber scaffolds for tissue engineering field was explored. The stimuli responsive PGS scaffold has gained much attention due to its ability to self‐expanding, self‐deploying, or self‐fitting. Herein, the electrospinning of shape memory PGS‐based scaffolds, particularly their processing parameters, properties, and characterizations have been reviewed. Besides, other issues concerning the technology constraints, challenges, and future directions are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dedifferentiation of articular chondrocytes during in vitro expansion deteriorates the hyaline cartilage regeneration. Many approaches have been developed to enhance the redifferentiation of chondrocytes. In this study, a new and effective protocol to improve the redifferentiation of porcine chondrocytes in a pellet form was established. Pellets were initially treated in the modified culture media containing ternary mixtures, binary mixtures, or single reagents of sodium citrate (SCi), sodium chloride (SCh), and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) at varied concentrations during the first 3 days of culture, followed by a normal culture medium until 21 days. Viability, proliferation, cartilaginous gene expression, extracellular matrix formation, and morphology of treated cell pellets were comparatively examined. Chondrocytes exposed to SCi, SCh, and EDTA individually or in combinations of two or three chemicals were non‐cytotoxic when the concentration ranges of the chemicals were 1.83–2.75, 5.00–7.50, and 1.00–1.50 mM, respectively. Cells treated with the modified media containing EDTA alone and EDTA‐containing mixtures enhanced glycosaminoglycan production as well as upregulated cartilaginous gene expression, despite their low proliferation rates. Overall, when all three reagents were in use, a pronounced synergistic effect on the activations of glycosaminoglycan accumulation and type II collagen production was explicitly observed at most, particularly when cells were cultured in the medium containing SCi, SCh, and EDTA at concentrations of 2.20, 6.00, and 1.20 mM, respectively. With a use of this protocol, the redifferentiation of articular chondrocytes for regeneration of hyaline cartilage for tissue engineering applications could be readily achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fig. 1 Graphical representation of hydroxyapatite and polyethylene glycol (PEG) based composites in tissue engineering applications [Display omitted] • Complete review on current pioneering design concepts of Hydroxyapatite (HAp) and Polyethylene glycol (PEG) in tissue engineering applications. • Unveil current ingenious structural and functional strategies on HAp/PEG based biomaterials. • Summarized futuristic perspectives and therapeutic values of HAP/PEG based biomaterials in various tissue regenerative applications. Tissue engineering is a hastily growing area that attempts to create multifunctional biocompatible biomaterials to regenerate both damaged skin tissues and bone tissues. In these interdisciplinary fields, hydroxyapatite (HAP) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based biomaterials create the highest attraction towards regenerative research by easily mimicking and restoring various biological tissues with significant physical properties (provide porous structure, mechanical strength, degradation, swelling, drug release systems) and biological properties (cell adhesion, cell proliferation, tissue granulation). Moreover, tissue engineering has a wide range of applications and influences both soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, skeletal tissues, and blood vessels) and hard tissues (bones and teeth). The current review provides detailed insights on the preparation and characterization of HAP and PEG-based composites, along with their merits and demerits. We also summarized various applications of HAP and PEG in tissue engineering, such as wound healing, bone application, coating in implants, dentistry, and drug delivery systems. Finally, the enhancement of mechanical and biological properties has been discussed based on recent research articles. The comprehensive review also anticipated the shortcomings and future perspectives of HAP-PEG-based composites to meet the requirements of applications in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a comparative structural and bioactive analysis of collagen extracted from the skin of bony and cartilaginous fishes. The acid-soluble method was followed to extract the collagen from Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (silver carp) and Rhizoprionodon acutus (milk shark) followed by purification using Ion exchange chromatography. A higher yield of collagen was obtained from the skin of SCsk (69.45%) as compared to SHsk (55.29%). SDS PAGE displayed the characteristic α, β bands of the collagen type1. The native conformation and secondary structure stability of collagen were confirmed by FTIR, XRD and CD studies. The SEM micrographs exhibited the layered and fibrillar nature of the collagen from SHsk and SCsk, respectively. Relative solubility and thermal denaturation analysis showed SCsk to be more stable, but SHsk could withstand higher temperatures. 53.65% of antioxidant activity was observed in SCsk collagen as compared to SHsk (45.9%). Haemocompatibility, cell viability and adhesion results also displayed silvercarp skin to be a better source than Shark skin collagen. The results establish the potential of silver carp collagen as a biomaterial that can have many commercial applications in tissue engineering, cosmetics and food industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofibrous scaffolds plays a vital role in many biomedical applications such as biosensors, solar cells, membrane filteration, bone regeneration and wound healing applications. In recent decades, around 10-15% of people in India have been facing bone-related problems due to accidents, fractures, loss of bone mass, and aging. To overcome the obstacles, functionalized hybrid biomaterials have been designed to treat or augment bone defects, reduce bacterial infections, and also act as smart drug carriers. The electrospun nanofibers have garnered attention and provides multiple mertis in tissue engineering due to its nano architecture which mimic the micro-structural entity of extracellular matrix (ECM). Fascinatingly, this review examines various electrospinning methods that employs to fabricate nanofibrous scaffold and their effective biomedical applications are explained. The study highlights the experimental set up of electrospinning techniques, it also focuses on recent exploration in emerging biomedical developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Tissue engineering uses a combination of cell biology, chemistry, and biomaterials to fabricate three dimensional (3D) tissues that mimic the architecture of extracellular matrix (ECM) comprising diverse interwoven nanofibrous structure. Among several methods for producing nanofibrous scaffolds, electrospinning has gained intense interest because it can make nanofibers with a porous structure and high specific surface area. The processing and solution parameters of electrospinning can considerably affect the assembly and structural morphology of the fabricated nanofibers. Electrospun nanofibers can be made from natural or synthetic polymers and blending them is a straightforward way to tune the functionality of the nanofibers. Furthermore, the electrospun nanofibers can be functionalized with various surface modification strategies. In this review, we highlight the latest achievements in fabricating electrospun nanofibers and describe various ways to modify the surface and structure of scaffolds to promote their functionality. We also summarize the application of advanced polymeric nanofibrous scaffolds in the regeneration of human bone, cartilage, vascular tissues, and tendons/ligaments.

In recent years, 3D printing has gradually become a well-known new topic and a research hotspot. At the same time, the advent of 3D printing is inseparable from the preparation of bio-ink. Natural materials have the advantages of low toxicity or even non-toxicity, there being abundant raw materials, easy processing and modification, excellent mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and high cell activity, making them very suitable for the preparation of bio-ink. With the help of 3D printing technology, the prepared materials and scaffolds can be widely used in tissue engineering and other fields. Firstly, we introduce the natural materials and their properties for 3D printing and summarize the physical and chemical properties of these natural materials and their applications in tissue engineering after modification. Secondly, we discuss the modification methods used for 3D printing materials, including physical, chemical, and protein self-assembly methods. We also discuss the method of 3D printing. Then, we summarize the application of natural materials for 3D printing in tissue engineering, skin tissue, cartilage tissue, bone tissue, and vascular tissue. Finally, we also express some views on the research and application of these natural materials.

Featured Application: The proposed device and method can promote the arrangement of cells in defined geometries through acoustic flexural plate waves for organized engineered tissues. In this paper, the possibility to steer and confine live human cells by means of acoustic waves, such as flexural plate waves (FPWs), generated by piezoelectric actuators applied to non-piezoelectric substrates, has been explored. A device with two lead zirconate titanate (PZT) actuators with an interdigital transducer (IDT) screen-printed on an alumina (Al2O3) substrate has been fabricated and tested. The experimental results show that, by exciting the actuators at their resonant frequencies, FPW modes are generated in the substrate. By exploiting the device, arrangements of cells on lines at frequency-dependent distances have been obtained. To maintain the alignment after switching off the actuator, cells were entrapped in a fibrin clot that was cultured for several days, enabling the formation of cellular patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great need for the progress of composite biomaterials, which are effective for tissue engineering applications. In this work, the development of composite electrospun nanofibres based on polycaprolactone (PCL) and collagen hydrolysate (CH) loaded with ferulic acid (FA) for the treatment of chronic wounds. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) has been applied to nanofibres factor manufacturing assisted by electrospinning. For wound healing applications, the authors have created the efficacy of CH, and PCL membranes can act as a stable, protective cover for wound, enabling continuous FA release. The findings of the RSM showed a reasonably good fit with a polynomial equation of the second order which was statistically acceptable at P < 0.05. The optimised parameters include the quantity of hydrolysate collagen, the voltage applied and the distance from tip‐to‐collector. Based on the Box–Behnken design, the RSM was used to create a mathematical model and optimise nanofibres with minimum diameter production conditions. Using FTIR, TGA and SEM, optimised nanofibres were defined. In vitro, cytocompatibility trials showed that there was an important cytocompatibility of the optimised nanofibres, which was proved by cell proliferation and cell morphology. In this research, the mixed nanofibres of PCL and CH with ferulic could be a potential biomaterial for wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Mechanochemical synthesis method has been used to prepare nanocrystalline B-type carbonated fluoroapatite (B-CFA). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy along with X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique was carried out to investigate the effect of milling time on the preparation of B-CFA. In vitro bioactivity of FA during synthesis was examined also by FTIR spectroscopy after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF). Furthermore, the mechanical properties including hardness, fracture toughness, compressive strength, longitudinal modulus, Young's modulus, shear modulus and bulk modulus of the sintered samples, at 1000 and 1200 °C, for different milling times were measured by ultrasonic non-destructive technique. Furthermore, theoretical model is presented for FA according to the formula Ca 10 (PO 4) 6 F 2 ·18H 2 O. The QSAR properties including log P, total energy, heat of formation, energy gap, dipole moment, ionization potential, polarizability, molar refractivity and molecular weight were calculated. FTIR and XRD results revealed that single phase B-CFA was successfully formed after 9 h of milling. Moreover, the results also pointed out that the total energy of FA is much more than hydroxyapatite (HA) indicating that the structure of FA is more stable than HA. These results are in agreement with XRD ones for the sintered samples where they did not undergo decomposition reflecting its thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the possibility to steer and confine live human cells by means of acoustic waves, such as flexural plate waves (FPWs), generated by piezoelectric actuators applied to non-piezoelectric substrates, has been explored. A device with two lead zirconate titanate (PZT) actuators with an interdigital transducer (IDT) screen-printed on an alumina (Al2O3) substrate has been fabricated and tested. The experimental results show that, by exciting the actuators at their resonant frequencies, FPW modes are generated in the substrate. By exploiting the device, arrangements of cells on lines at frequency-dependent distances have been obtained. To maintain the alignment after switching off the actuator, cells were entrapped in a fibrin clot that was cultured for several days, enabling the formation of cellular patterns.

Chitosan derivatives, and more specifically, glycosylated derivatives, are nowadays attracting much attention within the scientific community due to the fact that this set of engineered polysaccharides finds application in different sectors, spanning from food to the biomedical field. Overcoming chitosan (physical) limitations or grafting biological relevant molecules, to mention a few, represent two cardinal strategies to modify parent biopolymer; thereby, synthetizing high added value polysaccharides. The present review is focused on the introduction of oligosaccharide side chains on the backbone of chitosan. The synthetic aspects and the effect on physical-chemical properties of such modifications are discussed. Finally, examples of potential applications in biomaterials design and drug delivery of these novel modified chitosans are disclosed.

In this study, electrically conductive, borate-based, porous 13-93B3 bioactive glass composite scaffolds were prepared using a polymer foam replication technique. For this purpose, a slurry containing 40 vol% glass particles and 0–10 wt% graphene nanoplatelets was prepared by dispersing the particles in ethanol in the presence of ethyl cellulose. Composite scaffolds were subjected to a controlled heat treatment, in air atmosphere, to decompose the foam and sinter the glass particles into a dense network. It was found that the applied heat treatment did not influence the structure of graphene in the glass network. Graphene additions did not negatively affect the mechanical properties and enhanced the electrical conductivity of the glass scaffolds. In X-ray diffraction analysis, the crystalline peak corresponding to hydroxyapatite was observed in all the samples suggesting that all of the samples were bioactive after 30 days of immersion in simulated body fluid. However, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and scanning electron microscope observations revealed that hydroxyapatite formation rate decreased with increasing graphene concentration especially for samples treated in simulated body fluid for shorter times. Based on the cytotoxicity assay findings, the MC3T3-E1 cell growth was significantly inhibited by the scaffolds containing higher amount of graphene compared to bare glass scaffolds. Best performance was obtained for 5 wt% graphene which yielded an enhancement of electrical conductivity with moderate cellular response and in vitro hydroxyapatite forming ability. The study revealed that the electrically conductive 13-93B3 graphene scaffolds are promising candidates for bone tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The technique of flap-prefabrication has been successfully established in tissue engineering: missing intrinsic vascularisation of engineered tissue can be generated in vivo by microsurgical vesselloop construction. It is possible to move engineered tissue into a defect with microsurgery. In the literature, the combination of engineered tissue covered with skin is not widely reported. OBJECTIVE: Aim of this study was to establish a model to investigate scaffold prefabrication with full thickness skin graft coverage with subsequent free tissue transfer. METHODS: 8 Wistar rats were operated in 2 separate steps: 1) after creating an arteriovenous loop with the femoral vessels, a porous scaffold was placed on the loop and covered with an inguinally based skin flap. A control was implanted without loop into the contralateral groin. 2) 6 weeks later the prefabricated composite flaps were microsurgically transferred to the cervical region. Skin-island monitoring was performed with Laser Doppler-scanner after the transfer. RESULTS: Continuous loss of the skin islands was observed within 72 hours. Complications included wound-dehiscence, thrombosis and death from anaesthesia; in spite of consistent loop viability. CONCLUSION: Evaluation showed that modifications are necessary to maintain the skin-island cove. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, silicate 13-93 and borate based 13-93B3 bioactive glass scaffolds with high porosity and interconnected pore structure (pore size 100–500 µm) were prepared by foam replication method. In order to improve the mechanical properties, the scaffolds were coated and infiltrated with a poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) solution at different concentrations (5, 10, and 20 wt%). Results revealed that the mechanical properties of the scaffolds were significantly improved by the PCL coating. The addition of 10% PCL coating led to approximately 10-fold increase of compressive strength in comparison with noncoated scaffolds. The bioactivity of scaffolds upon immersion in simulated body fluid was maintained in the PCL-coated scaffolds at all concentrations; however, a decrease in the formation rate and amount of crystalline hydroxyapatite was observed as the PCL concentration was increased in the coating layer. Degradation rate of the borate-based bioactive glass scaffolds was tailored by the PCL coating. It is concluded that the fabricated bioactive composite scaffolds represent promising candidates for bone tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of infection in the tissue engineering substitutes is driving us to seek new coating materials. We previously found that conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) has well biocompatibility and excellent membrane-forming property. The objective of this study is to endow the anti-bacterial activity to CLnA membra ne by linking with MgO. The results showed that the CLnA polymer membrane can be loaded with porous rod-like MgO and such complex membrane showed anti-bacterial sensitivity against gram-positive bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus) even at the low concentration (0.15 μg/mm). In the present study, the best zone of inhibition got to 18.2 ± 0.8 mm when the amount of MgO reach 2.42 ± 0.58 μg/mm. It was deduced that the porous rod-like structure of MgO was directed by CLnA in its polymerization process. Such CLnA/MgO complex membrane can be helpful in the tissue engineering, medicine, food engineering, food preservation, etc. on the basis of its good anti-bacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, silicate based 13–93 bioactive glass fibers were prepared through sol–gel processing and electrospinning technique. A precursor solution containing poly (vinyl alcohol) and bioactive glass sol was used to produce fibers. The mixture was electrospun at a voltage of 20 kV by maintaining tip to a collector distance of 10 cm. The amorphous glass fibers with an average diameter of 464 ± 95 nm were successfully obtained after calcination at 625 °C. Hydroxyapatite formation on calcined 13–93 fibers was investigated in simulated body fluid (SBF) using two different fiber concentrations (0.5 and 1 mg/ml) at 37 °C. When immersed in SBF, conversion to a calcium phosphate material showed a strong dependence on the fiber concentration. At 1 mg/ml, the surface of the fibers converted to the hydroxyapatite-like material in SBF only after 30 days. At lower solid concentrations (0.5 mg/ml), an amorphous calcium phosphate layer formation was observed followed by the conversion to hydroxyapatite phase after 7 days of immersion. The XTT (2,3-Bis-(2-Methoxy-4-Nitro-5-Sulfophenyl)-2H-Tetrazolium-5-Carboxanilide) assay was conducted to evaluate the osteoblast cell response to the bioactive glass fibers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive glasses are widely used in biomedical applications due to their ability to bond to bone and even to soft tissues. In this study, 45S5 bioactive glass fibers were prepared through sol–gel processing and electrospinning technique. A precursor solution containing poly vinyl alcohol and bioactive glass sol was used to produce fibers. The mixture was electrospun at a voltage of 20 kV by maintaining tip to a collector distance of 8 cm. The fibers with an average diameter of 337±81 nm (before calcination) were successfully obtained. Results showed that the crystalline phase of the fibers was largely influenced by the calcination temperature. Hydroxyapatite formation on calcined 45S5 fibers was investigated in simulated body fluid (SBF) using different fiber/SBF (F/S) ratios (0.5, 1, 2 and 10 mg/ml) at 37 °C. When immersed in SBF, conversion to a calcium phosphate material showed a strong dependence on the F/S ratio. At high solid concentration (10 mg/ml), surface of the fibers could not be converted to the HA-like material in SBF after 30 days. At lower solid concentrations (2, 1 and 0.5 mg/ml) an amorphous calcium phosphate layer formation was observed followed by the conversion to hydroxyapatite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, 3D printing has gradually become a well-known new topic and a research hotspot. At the same time, the advent of 3D printing is inseparable from the preparation of bio-ink. Natural materials have the advantages of low toxicity or even non-toxicity, there being abundant raw materials, easy processing and modification, excellent mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and high cell activity, making them very suitable for the preparation of bio-ink. With the help of 3D printing technology, the prepared materials and scaffolds can be widely used in tissue engineering and other fields. Firstly, we introduce the natural materials and their properties for 3D printing and summarize the physical and chemical properties of these natural materials and their applications in tissue engineering after modification. Secondly, we discuss the modification methods used for 3D printing materials, including physical, chemical, and protein self-assembly methods. We also discuss the method of 3D printing. Then, we summarize the application of natural materials for 3D printing in tissue engineering, skin tissue, cartilage tissue, bone tissue, and vascular tissue. Finally, we also express some views on the research and application of these natural materials.

Human hair is a potential biomaterial for biomedical applications. Improper disposal of human hair may pose various adverse effects on the environment and human health. Therefore, proper management of human hair waste is pivotal. Human hair fiber and its derivatives offer various advantages as biomaterials such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, radical scavenging, electroconductivity, and intrinsic biological activity. Therefore, the favorable characteristics of human hair have rendered its usage in tissue engineering (TE) applications including skin, cardiac, nerve, bone, ocular, and periodontal. Moreover, the strategies by utilizing human hair as a biomaterial for TE applications may reduce the accumulation of human hair. Thus, it also improves human hair waste management while promoting natural, environmental-friendly, and nontoxic materials. Furthermore, promoting sustainable materials production will benefit human health and well-being. Hence, this article reviews and discusses human hair characteristics as sustainable biomaterials and their recent application in TE applications. Impact Statement This review article highlights the sustainability aspects of human hair as raw biomaterials and various elements of human hair that could potentially be used in tissue engineering (TE) applications. Furthermore, this article discusses numerous benefits of human hair, highlighting its value as biomaterials in bioscaffold development for TE applications. Moreover, this article reviews the role and effect of human hair in various TE applications, including skin, cardiac, nerve, bone, ocular, and periodontal.

Abstract: Synthetic calcium hydroxyapatite (HAP,Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) is a well-known bioceramic material used in orthopaedic and dental applications because of its excellent biocompatibility and bone-bonding ability. Substitution of trace elements, such as Sr, Mg and Zn ions into the structure of calcium phosphates is the subject of widespread investigation. In this paper, we have reported the synthesis of Sr, Mg and Zn co-substituted nanohydroxyapatite by soft solution freezing method. The effect of pH on the morphology of bioceramic nanomaterial was also discussed. The in vitro bioactivity of the as-synthesized bioceramic nanomaterial was determined by soaking it in SBF for various days. The as-synthesized bioceramic nanomaterial was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X- ray diffraction analysis, Scanning electron microscopy and Energy dispersive X-ray analysis and Transmission electron microscopic techniques respectively. The results obtained in our study have revealed that pH 10 was identified to induce the formation of mineralized nanohydroxyapatite. It is observed that the synthesis of bioceramic nanomaterial not only support the growth of apatite layer on its surface but also accelerate the growth which is evident from the in vitro studies. Therefore, mineralized nanohydroxyapatite is a potential candidate in bone tissue engineering. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]