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An emerging cellular engineering method creates synthetic polymer matrices inside cells. By contrast with classical genetic, enzymatic, or radioactive techniques, this materials-based approach introduces non-natural polymers inside cells, thus modifying cellular states and functionalities. Here, we cover various materials and chemistries that have been exploited to create intracellular polymer matrices. In addition, we discuss emergent cellular properties due to the intracellular polymerization, including nonreplicating but active metabolism, maintenance of membrane integrity, and resistance to environmental stressors. We also discuss past work and future opportunities for developing and applying synthetic cells that contain intracellular polymers. The materials-based approach will usher in new applications of synthetic cells for broad biotechnological applications.

This study aimed to evaluate chitosan (CS)-based formulations loaded with 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) and/or 10% nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) to remineralize the demineralized primary tooth enamel surface. Ninety enamel blocks were demineralized and were divided into six groups (n = 15): (1) CS-based hydrogel, (2) CS-based hydrogel loaded with NaF, (3) CS-based hydrogel loaded with nHA, (4) CS-based hydrogel loaded with NaF and nHA, (5) 5% NaF varnish, and (6) negative control with no intervention. After intervention, the specimens were pH cycled by 2 h immersion in demineralizing solution and 22 h immersion in remineralizing solution for 8 days. The remineralization effects were evaluated by Vickers microhardness measurements and field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (FESEM-EDS). The best mean ± SD percentage microhardness recovery in remineralized enamel (%REMH) was found in group 4 (56.90 ± 5.49). The %REMH of groups 2 (30.74 ± 3.51) and 5 (29.23 ± 5.65) were statistically the same (p = 0.943). FESEM images confirmed partial coverage of the porous demineralized enamel with a newly formed mineralized layer. Based on EDS findings, the Ca/P ratio values of the treated enamel surfaces with CS-based hydrogels ranged between 1.71 and 1.87, and the highest F content was noticed in group 2 (1.02 ± 0.03). Although, all tested CS-based hydrogels demonstrated the potential to repair demineralized enamel, nHA- and NaF-containing CS-based hydrogel showed the highest remineralization effect. We infer that this new hybrid hydrogel is a potentially useful dental material for tooth biomineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospinning is currently one of the most used techniques for obtaining various types of nanofibers. In the era of sustainable development, it is essential to utilize environmentally friendly raw materials and solvents. This review summarizes the current state of the art in biopolymer electrospinning using deep eutectic solvents. To date, there have not been too many studies on the simultaneous application of these mixtures and biopolymers in the electrospinning process. Nevertheless, the use of natural origin raw materials and the replacement of conventional organic solvents with deep eutectic solvents appear promising in this technique due to many attractive properties of both the mixtures and biopolymers. This article aims to inspire scientists to further research in this direction, related to the development of electrospinning techniques aimed at reducing the negative environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers with ammonium or phosphonium salts have been known to possess antimicrobial activity. Herein, synthesis of poly(vinylbenzyl chloride‐co‐acrylonitrile) (P(VBC‐co‐AN)) is reported via a free radical polymerization by employing AIBN as initiator. The copolymer was then quaternized using triethylamine, triphenylphosphine, and tributylphosphine. The triphenylphosphonium salt was selected for further modification, on which the polyacrylonitrile chains were reacted with two different amines: tris (2‐aminoethylamine) and diethylenetriamine. The copolymerization, quaternization, and amination reactions were confirmed by spectroscopic and morphologic analysis besides the thermal features. The water uptake of modified polymers was investigated, where tributylphosphonium salt (KH4) showed the highest water uptake capacity (41 g/g). The antimicrobial assay findings demonstrated that all the evaluated copolymers displayed a wide range of antimicrobial activity against different multidrug resistant human pathogens, for example polymer coded KH4 containing tributylphosphonium salt showed the highest growth inhibition rates against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis populations, recorded 87% and 72%; respectively. The anti‐inflammatory activity revealed that all the quaternized copolymers have a protection effect of human erythrocyte membrane against lysis. Antioxidant results revealed that all quaternized copolymers displayed 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl hydrazyl scavenging activities. Among the studied copolymers, aminated copolymer coded (KH6) exhibited the highest scavenging activity, with IC50 ~ 120 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing foldable power sources with simple transport and storage remains a significant challenge and an urgent need for the advancement of next‐generation wearable bioelectronics. In this study, super‐foldable lithium‐ion batteries are developed by integrating biomimetic methods, which effectively address the challenges of stress dispersion and mark a breakthrough in the field of super‐foldable devices. A synchronous three‐level biomimetic coupling technology is introduced and employed a strategy of radial compounding, gel‐electrostatic molding, and temperature‐programmed co‐pyrolysis. This approach allows us to simultaneously prepare a super‐foldable multi‐level “lotus structure” cathode and a highly compatible super‐foldable “peapods” structure anode. Remarkably, even after 500 000 cycles of repeated folding tests, the full battery maintains a high level of capacity stability, and the galvanostatic charge/discharge curves also exhibit a high degree of consistency. Furthermore, this battery can power an LED clock for over 2870 continuous minutes while undergoing in situ dynamic reciprocating folding, highlighting its substantial promise for practical applications. The super‐foldable battery represents a full‐chain innovation, extending from the super‐foldable substrate to the super‐foldable electrodes, and culminating in a super‐foldable full battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseño y Comunicación is the property of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseno y Comunicacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The development of tissue engineering and regeneration research has created new platforms for bone transplantation. However, the preparation of scaffolds with good fiber integrity is challenging, because scaffolds prepared by traditional printing methods are prone to fiber cracking during solvent evaporation. Human skin has an excellent natural heat-management system, which helps to maintain a constant body temperature through perspiration or blood-vessel constriction. In this work, an electrohydrodynamic-jet 3D-printing method inspired by the thermal-management system of skin was developed. In this system, the evaporation of solvent in the printed fibers can be adjusted using the temperature-change rate of the substrate to prepare 3D structures with good structural integrity. To investigate the solvent evaporation and the interlayer bonding of the fibers, finite-element analysis simulations of a three-layer microscale structure were carried out. The results show that the solvent-evaporation path is from bottom to top, and the strain in the printed structure becomes smaller with a smaller temperature-change rate. Experimental results verified the accuracy of these simulation results, and a variety of complex 3D structures with high aspect ratios were printed. Microscale cracks were reduced to the nanoscale by adjusting the temperature-change rate from 2.5 to 0.5 °C s−1. Optimized process parameters were selected to prepare a tissue engineering scaffold with high integrity. It was confirmed that this printed scaffold had good biocompatibility and could be used for bone-tissue regeneration. This simple and flexible 3D-printing method can also help with the preparation of a wide range of micro- and nanostructured sensors and actuators. ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS: • A controllable and cost-effective high-resolution E-jet 3d-printing fabrication technology inspired by skin thermal management was developed. • The solvent-evaporation path in the printed structure and its stress–strain development under the influence of temperature were obtained. • High-aspect-ratio 3D structures with good structural integrity were prepared by adjusting the evaporation of the solvent using the temperature-change rate. • A PCL/PVP scaffold with fiber diameters close to the size of living cells was printed, which exhibited high biocompatibility for bone-tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nature's diversity offers an abundance of promising solutions for novel bioinspired functional materials and systems. In particular, single‐celled organisms exhibit solutions and material properties that are realized at the nano‐ and micro‐scales. Ciliates are ubiquitous unicellular eukaryotes that are well‐adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions. They have developed a large variety of interesting and highly specialized characteristics with unique properties and design. In this review, the background of selected ciliate characteristics is highlighted with respect to material properties and structure‐function relationships. Hierarchically complex mineralized structures, highly efficient sensors for movement and protection, shape‐memory structures, as well as survival and detoxification strategies are to be emphasized. Proposed future bioinspired applications of these properties of ciliates expand the possibilities to more sustainable materials and development processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic structures mimicking the transport function of natural ion channel proteins have a wide range of applications, including therapeutic treatments, separation membranes, sensing, and biotechnologies. However, the development of polymer‐based artificial channels has been hampered due to the limitation on available models. In this study, we demonstrate the great potential of bottlebrush polymers as accessible and versatile molecular scaffolds for developing efficient artificial ion channels. Adopting the bottlebrush configuration enhanced ion transport activity of the channels compared to their linear analogs. Matching the structure of lipid bilayers, the bottlebrush channel with a hydrophilic‐hydrophobic‐hydrophilic triblock architecture exhibited the highest activity among the series. Functionalized with urea groups, these channels displayed high anion selectivity. Additionally, we illustrated that the transport properties could be fine‐tuned by modifying the chemistry of ion binding sites. This work not only highlights the importance of polymer topology control in channel design, but also reveals the great potential for further developing bottlebrush channels with customized features and diverse functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower back pain (LBP) is a common condition closely associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), causing a significant socioeconomic burden. Inflammatory activation in degenerated discs involves pro-inflammatory cytokines, dysregulated regulatory cytokines, and increased levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), leading to further intervertebral disc destruction and pain sensitization. Macrophage polarization is closely related to autophagy. Based on these pathological features, a structured biomimetic nanoparticle coated with TrkA-overexpressing macrophage membranes (TMNP@SR) with a rapamycin-loaded mesoporous silica core is developed. TMNP@SR acted like sponges to adsorbe inflammatory cytokines and NGF and delivers the autophagy regulator rapamycin (RAPA) into macrophages through homologous targeting effects of the outer engineered cell membrane. By regulating autophagy activation, TMNP@SR promoted the M1-to-M2 switch of macrophages to avoid continuous activation of inflammation within the degenerated disc, which prevented the apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells. In addition, TMNP@SR relieved mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia, reduced calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) expression in the dorsal root ganglion, and downregulated GFAP and c-FOS signaling in the spinal cord in the rat IDD model. In summary, TMNP@SR spontaneously inhibits the aggravation of disc inflammation to alleviate disc degeneration and reduce the ingress of sensory nerves, presenting a promising treatment strategy for LBP induced by disc degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The defensive tissues such as insect epidermis and crustacean exoskeleton in nature displayed characteristics of high strength and high toughness via multi‐level structure, which shed light on the designation of natural polymer‐based composites with enhanced mechanical property. Herein, a bioinspired strategy was used to prepare chitin/gelatin composite with improved mechanical property. Chitin hydrogels were first prepared by dissolution in NaOH/urea via freezing–thawing and then regeneration in sodium propionate, to form a heterogeneous nanofibrous structure. After coating gelatin on the chitin nanofibers, a hierarchical structure was obtained, leading to more compact and homogenous morphology. The coating process significantly strengthened the chitin nanofibrous structure and reduced the weak defect, which enhanced the tensile strength and toughness of the composite. The present work not only supplies a chitin/gelatin composite with high mechanical property but also offers a facile approach to prepare strengthening and toughening materials based on natural polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to explore the potential of magnesium hydroxide (Mg[OH]₂) nanoparticles (NPs) incorporated into polyurethane (PU) fibers, which were further coated with chitosan and silver (Ag) NPs. The hydrothermal approach was adopted to add the properties of chitosan and Ag NPs to the as‐spun fibers. These samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM), EDS, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and contact angle measurements. The diameter of concocted fibers was found to be 0.79 ± 0.31 μm to 2.5 ± 0.9 μm. The presence of Mg(OH)2 decreased the fiber diameter from 2.05 ± 1.2 μm to 0.79 ± 0.31 μm; however, after hydrothermal coating, the diameter increased from 0.79 ± 0.31 μm to 2.5 ± 0.9 μm. The contact angle on pristine PU showed 105.53 ± 0.8°, that is, hydrophobicity, which was diminished to 9.3 ± 0.8° by the reorientation of PU with Mg(OH)2, chitosan and Ag NPs, that is, indicative of hydrophilic character. Biomineralization was evaluated by incubating in simulated body fluid, and the EDS and FE‐SEM indicated that composite fibers could induce apatite formation. Cell viability was measured using MTT assay, and cell adhesion/proliferation was confirmed by DAPI staining and FE‐SEM. The composite scaffolds promoted 3T3‐L1 to grow confluently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPolyetheretherketone (PEEK) implants have emerged as a clinically favored alternative to titanium alloy implants for cranial bone substitutes due to their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, the biological inertness of PEEK has hindered its clinical application. To address this issue, we developed a dual-functional surface modification method aimed at enhancing both osteogenesis and antibacterial activity, which was achieved through the sustained release of chondroitin sulfate (CS) and levofloxacin (LVFX) from a biomimetic polydopamine (PDA) coating on the PEEK surface. CS was introduced to promote cell adhesion and osteogenic differentiation. Meanwhile, incorporation of antibiotic LVFX was essential to prevent infections, which are a critical concern in bone defect repairing. To our delight, experiment results demonstrated that the SPKD/CS-LVFX specimen exhibited enhanced hydrophilicity and sustained drug release profiles. Furthermore, in vitro experiments showed that cell growth and adhesion, cell viability, and osteogenic differentiation of mouse calvaria-derived osteoblast precursor (MC3T3-E1) cells were significantly improved on the SPKD/CS-LVFX coating. Antibacterial assays also confirmed that the SPKD/CS-LVFX specimen effectively inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, attributable to the antibiotic LVFX released from the PDA coating. To sum up, this dual-functional PEEK implant showed a promising potential for clinical application in bone defects repairing, providing excellent osteogenic and antibacterial properties through a synergistic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrophages play pivotal roles in the regulation of inflammatory responses and tissue repair, making them a prime target for inflammation alleviation. However, the accurate and efficient macrophages targeting is still a challenging task. Motivated by the efficient and specific removal of apoptotic cells by macrophages efferocytosis, a novel biomimetic liposomal system called Effero‐RLP (Efferocytosis‐mediated Red blood cell hybrid Liposomes) is developed which incorporates the membrane of apoptotic red blood cells (RBCs) with liposomes for the purpose of highly efficient macrophages targeting. Rosiglitazone (ROSI), a PPARγ agonist known to attenuate macrophage inflammatory responses, is encapsulated into Effero‐RLP as model drug to regulate macrophage functions in DSS‐induced colitis mouse model. Intriguingly, the Effero‐RLP exhibits selective and efficient uptake by macrophages, which is significantly inhibited by the efferocytosis blocker Annexin V. In animal models, the Effero‐RLP demonstrates rapid recognition by macrophages, leading to enhanced accumulation at inflammatory sites. Furthermore, ROSI‐loaded Effero‐RLP effectively alleviates inflammation and protects colon tissue from injury in the colitis mouse model, which is abolished by deletion of macrophages from mice model. In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of macrophage targeting using efferocytosis biomimetic liposomes. The development of Effero‐RLP presents novel and promising strategies for alleviating inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mimesis of biological mechanisms by artificial devices constitutes the modern, rapidly expanding, multidisciplinary biomimetics sector. In the broader bioinspiration perspective, however, bioarchitectures may perform independent functions without necessarily mimicking their biological generators. In this paper, we explore such Bioarchitectonic notions and demonstrate three-dimensional photonics by the exact replication of insect organs using ultra-porous silica aerogels. The subsequent conformal systolic transformation yields their miniaturized affine 'clones' having higher mass density and refractive index. Focusing on the paradigms of ommatidia, the compound eye of the hornet Vespa crabro flavofasciata and the microtrichia of the scarab Protaetia cuprea phoebe, we fabricate their aerogel replicas and derivative clones and investigate their photonic functionalities. Ultralight aerogel microlens arrays are proven to be functional photonic devices having a focal length f ~ 1000 μm and f-number f/30 in the visible spectrum. Stepwise systolic transformation yields denser and affine functional elements, ultimately fused silica clones, exhibiting strong focusing properties due to their very short focal length of f ~ 35 μm and f/3.5. The fabricated transparent aerogel and xerogel replicas of microtrichia demonstrate a remarkable optical waveguiding performance, delivering light to their sub-100 nm nanotips. Dense fused silica conical clones deliver light through sub-50 nm nanotips, enabling nanoscale light–matter interactions. Super-resolution bioarchitectonics offers new and alternative tools and promises novel developments and applications in nanophotonics and other nanotechnology sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunotherapy combats tumors by enhancing the body's immune surveillance and clearance of tumor cells. Various nucleic acid drugs can be used in immunotherapy, such as DNA expressing cytokines, mRNA tumor vaccines, small interfering RNAs (siRNA) knocking down immunosuppressive molecules, and oligonucleotides that can be used as immune adjuvants. Nucleic acid drugs, which are prone to nuclease degradation in the circulation and find it difficult to enter the target cells, typically necessitate developing appropriate vectors for effective in vivo delivery. Biomimetic drug delivery systems, derived from viruses, bacteria, and cells, can protect the cargos from degradation and clearance, and deliver them to the target cells to ensure safety. Moreover, they can activate the immune system through their endogenous activities and active components, thereby improving the efficacy of antitumor immunotherapeutic nucleic acid drugs. In this review, biomimetic nucleic acid delivery systems for relieving a tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment are introduced. Their immune activation mechanisms, including upregulating the proinflammatory cytokines, serving as tumor vaccines, inhibiting immune checkpoints, and modulating intratumoral immune cells, are elaborated. The advantages and disadvantages, as well as possible directions for their clinical translation, are summarized at last. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, light weight bio-inspired micro air vehicles (MAVs) have gained popularity due to wide applications in civil and military operations. Much research has been done in this regard inspired by the flapping wings of biological flyers such as birds, insects, bats, etc. MAVs have adapted the design from the flapping of beetle, butterfly, bat, hummingbird, mosquitoes, and bees. For MAV design, various flight characteristics such as wing beat frequency, Reynolds number, the aspect ratio of bio-mimic vehicle, landing, and take off techniques are examined. This article focuses on the recently developed bio-mimic MAVs and identifying their suitability for the desired task. The research accomplishments on the hoverable, insect, bird, and bat MAV mechanisms over the last decades are categorized and discussed. The mechanism's issues, trends, and difficulties are compiled and presented. This review concludes with recommendations for future research on the mechanical structures and mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of safe platforms that can circumvent the endocytic pathway is of great significance for biological therapeutics that are usually degraded during endocytosis. Here we show that a self‐assembled and dynamic macrocycle can passively diffuse through the cell membrane and deliver a broad range of biologics, including proteins, CRISPR Cas9, and ssDNA, directly to the cytosol while retaining their bioactivity. Cell‐penetrating macrocycle CPM can be easily prepared from the room temperature condensation of diketopyrrolopyrrole lactams with diamines. We attribute the high cellular permeability of CPM to its amphiphilic nature and chameleonic properties. It adopts conformations that partially bury polar groups and expose hydrophobic side chains, thus self‐assembling into micellar‐like structures. Its superior fluorescence makes CPM trackable inside cells where it follows the endomembrane system. CPM outperformed commercial reagents for biologics delivery and showed high RNA knockdown efficiency of CRISPR Cas9. We envisage that this macrocycle will be an ideal starting point to design and synthesize biomimetic macrocyclic tags that can readily facilitate the interaction and uptake of biomolecules and overcome endosomal digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green phyto technology is a novel version, and the intersection of nanotechnology with nanobiotechnology gains much attention among global researchers owing to the vast range of industrial, environmental and medical applications. To synthesize bimetallic nano particles of Au@Ag, corresponding metal precursors were added to aqueous fruit latex extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus (AHL) & bark latex extract of Mimusops elengi (MEM) and exposed to sunlight. Hydrophobic surfaces are often designed to mimic low surface energy materials and hierarchical micro/nanostructures. In this study, hydrophobic surfaces on glass substrates were fabricated using a simple immersion process that was rapid, facile, and environmental friendly. Latex extracts, Au@Ag nanoparticles, stearic acid and methyltrichlorosilane were used in the coatings. The shape, heterogeneity, roughness and surface functionality of modified hydrophobic surfaces were investigated by FESEM, 3D profilometer and FT‐IR studies. The contact angle (CA) of modified surfaces was measured by Goniometer. The anti‐corrosive property of modified hydrophobic surfaces was tested. Recent micro/nanotechnological advancements have inspired artificial changes of surface wettability by bio‐mimic surfaces with efficient nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of rising public health threats like antifungal and antimicrobial resistance, alongside the slowdown in new antimicrobial development, biomimetics have shown promise as therapeutic agents. Multidrug-resistant fungi pose significant challenges as they quickly develop resistance, making traditional antifungals less effective. Developing new antifungals is also complicated by the need to target eukaryotic cells without harming the host. This review examines biomimetic antifungal materials that mimic natural biological mechanisms for targeted and efficient action. It covers a range of agents, including antifungal peptides, alginate-based antifungals, chitosan derivatives, nanoparticles, plant-derived polyphenols, and probiotic bacteria. These agents work through mechanisms such as disrupting cell membranes, generating reactive oxygen species, and inhibiting essential fungal processes. Despite their potential, challenges remain in terms of ensuring biocompatibility, optimizing delivery, and overcoming potential resistance. Production scalability and economic viability are also concerns. Future research should enhance the stability and efficacy of these materials, integrate multifunctional approaches, and develop sophisticated delivery systems. Interdisciplinary efforts are needed to understand interactions between these materials, fungal cells, and the host environment. Long-term health and environmental impacts, fungal resistance mechanisms, and standardized testing protocols require further study. In conclusion, while biomimetic antifungal materials represent a revolutionary approach to combating multidrug-resistant fungi, extensive research and development are needed to fully realize their potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many species rely on celestial cues as a reliable guide for maintaining heading while navigating. In this paper, we propose a method that extracts the Milky Way (MW) shape as an orientation cue in low-light scenarios. We also tested the method on both real and synthetic images and demonstrate that the performance of the method appears to be accurate and reliable to motion blur that might be caused by rotational vibration and stabilisation artefacts. The technique presented achieves an angular accuracy between a minimum of 0.00 ° and a maximum 0.08 ° for real night sky images, and between a minimum of 0.22 ° and a maximum 1.61 ° for synthetic images. The imaging of the MW is largely unaffected by blur. We speculate that the use of the MW as an orientation cue has evolved because, unlike individual stars, it is resilient to motion blur caused by locomotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent developments in biomimetic hydrogel research have expanded the scope of biomedical technologies that can be used to model, diagnose, and treat a wide range of medical conditions. Cancer presents one of the most intractable challenges in this arena due to the surreptitious mechanisms that it employs to evade detection and treatment. In order to address these challenges, biomimetic design principles can be adapted to beat cancer at its own game. Biomimetic design strategies are inspired by natural biological systems and offer promising opportunities for developing life-changing methods to model, detect, diagnose, treat, and cure various types of static and metastatic cancers. In particular, focusing on the cellular and subcellular phenomena that serve as fundamental drivers for the peculiar behavioral traits of cancer can provide rich insights into eradicating cancer in all of its manifestations. This review highlights promising developments in biomimetic nanocomposite hydrogels that contribute to cancer therapies via enhanced drug delivery strategies and modeling cancer mechanobiology phenomena in relation to metastasis and synergistic sensing systems. Creative efforts to amplify biomimetic design research to advance the development of more effective cancer therapies will be discussed in alignment with international collaborative goals to cure cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the practical production challenges posed by the unreliable operation of the V-shaped squeezing soil-covering and -pressing device (VCP) for planters under clay soil conditions in Northeast China, incomplete seed furrow closure, and severe soil adhesion on pressing wheels, this study proposes a device with star-toothed concave discs for soil-covering and -pressing (STCP) with the aim of enhancing the soil-covering quality of planters. The main working principles of STCP were expounded, and its main structural and installation parameters were determined and designed. Based on bionics, with the dung beetle's protruding head structure as the research object and UHMWPE as the material, an optimized protuberance-type bionic pressing wheel was designed. A Box–Behnken experiment was conducted by taking the width of the compression wheel, the spring deformation, and the installation angle as experimental factors, as well as the weight of the soil adhered to the surface of the pressing wheel (SW) and the soil compactness (SC) as the evaluation indicators. The optimal structural parameters of the pressing device were determined as follows: the width of the pressing wheel was 60.57 mm, the spring deformation was 55.19 mm, and the installation angle was 10.70°. The field comparison tests of soil covering performance showed that the star-tooth concave disc soil-covering device can effectively solve the problem of seed "hanging" and "drying". The average covered soil weight of the star-tooth concave disc soil-covering device was 241.46 g, and the average covered soil weight of VCP was 223.56 g. Compared with VCP, the average covered soil weight of STCP increased by 8.01%. The variation coefficient of covered soil weight after the operation of the star-tooth concave disc soil-covering device was 3.71%, which was more uniform than VCP. The field comparison tests of soil-covering thickness showed that the uniformity of soil-covering thickness can be significantly improved by adding a star-tooth concave disc soil-covering device to VCP. The comparative tests of soil anti-adhesive showed that the convex hull type pressing wheels optimized by bionics had better soil anti-adhesive performance, and the soil adhesion weight was reduced by 43.68% compared with VCP. The field comparative tests of seedling emergence showed that the seedling emergence rate after STCP operation was 3.9% higher than that of VCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate chitosan (CS)-based formulations loaded with 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) and/or 10% nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) to remineralize the demineralized primary tooth enamel surface. Ninety enamel blocks were demineralized and were divided into six groups (n = 15): (1) CS-based hydrogel, (2) CS-based hydrogel loaded with NaF, (3) CS-based hydrogel loaded with nHA, (4) CS-based hydrogel loaded with NaF and nHA, (5) 5% NaF varnish, and (6) negative control with no intervention. After intervention, the specimens were pH cycled by 2 h immersion in demineralizing solution and 22 h immersion in remineralizing solution for 8 days. The remineralization effects were evaluated by Vickers microhardness measurements and field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (FESEM-EDS). The best mean ± SD percentage microhardness recovery in remineralized enamel (%REMH) was found in group 4 (56.90 ± 5.49). The %REMH of groups 2 (30.74 ± 3.51) and 5 (29.23 ± 5.65) were statistically the same (p = 0.943). FESEM images confirmed partial coverage of the porous demineralized enamel with a newly formed mineralized layer. Based on EDS findings, the Ca/P ratio values of the treated enamel surfaces with CS-based hydrogels ranged between 1.71 and 1.87, and the highest F content was noticed in group 2 (1.02 ± 0.03). Although, all tested CS-based hydrogels demonstrated the potential to repair demineralized enamel, nHA- and NaF-containing CS-based hydrogel showed the highest remineralization effect. We infer that this new hybrid hydrogel is a potentially useful dental material for tooth biomineralization.

Abstract Lower back pain (LBP) is a common condition closely associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), causing a significant socioeconomic burden. Inflammatory activation in degenerated discs involves pro-inflammatory cytokines, dysregulated regulatory cytokines, and increased levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), leading to further intervertebral disc destruction and pain sensitization. Macrophage polarization is closely related to autophagy. Based on these pathological features, a structured biomimetic nanoparticle coated with TrkA-overexpressing macrophage membranes (TMNP@SR) with a rapamycin-loaded mesoporous silica core is developed. TMNP@SR acted like sponges to adsorbe inflammatory cytokines and NGF and delivers the autophagy regulator rapamycin (RAPA) into macrophages through homologous targeting effects of the outer engineered cell membrane. By regulating autophagy activation, TMNP@SR promoted the M1-to-M2 switch of macrophages to avoid continuous activation of inflammation within the degenerated disc, which prevented the apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells. In addition, TMNP@SR relieved mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia, reduced calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) expression in the dorsal root ganglion, and downregulated GFAP and c-FOS signaling in the spinal cord in the rat IDD model. In summary, TMNP@SR spontaneously inhibits the aggravation of disc inflammation to alleviate disc degeneration and reduce the ingress of sensory nerves, presenting a promising treatment strategy for LBP induced by disc degeneration. Graphical Abstract

A tri-layer scaffold was fabricated according to functionally graded materials (FGM) theory from poly(glycerol sebcate)/poly(L-lactic acid) blend by the increasing polylactic acid ratio from the inner to the outer layer. Heparin and platelet-rich plasma were loaded in separate layers to achieve proper remodeling and patency. The scaffold showed a linear degradation trend. The elastic modulus was 13.8 ± 1.11 Mpa that was in the favorable range for constructing artificial vessels. The integrity of the layers was preserved due to its FGM structure. The scaffold showed full blood compatibility by minimal platelet adhesion and hemolysis due to relatively slow release of Heparin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Orthopedic and dental implant failure continues to be a significant concern due to localized bacterial infections. Previous studies have attempted to improve implant surfaces by modifying their texture and roughness or coating them with antibiotics to enhance antibacterial properties for implant longevity. However, these approaches have demonstrated limited effectiveness. In this study, we attempted to engineer the titanium (Ti) alloy surface biomimetically at the nanometer scale, inspired by the cicada wing nanostructure using alkaline hydrothermal treatment (AHT) to simultaneously confer antibacterial properties and support the adhesion and proliferation of mammalian cells. The two modified Ti surfaces were developed using a 4 h and 8 h AHT process in 1 N NaOH at 230 °C, followed by a 2-hour post-calcination at 600 °C. We found that the control plates showed a relatively smooth surface, while the treatment groups (4 h & 8 h AHT) displayed nanoflower structures containing randomly distributed nano-spikes. The results demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in the contact angle of the treatment groups, which increased wettability characteristics. The 8 h AHT group exhibited the highest wettability and significant increase in roughness 0.72 ± 0.08 µm (P

Abstract Surface structure plays a crucial role in determining cell behavior on biomaterials, influencing cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, as well as immune cells and macrophage polarization. While grooves and ridges stimulate M2 polarization and pits and bumps promote M1 polarization, these structures do not accurately mimic the real bone surface. Consequently, the impact of mimicking bone surface topography on macrophage polarization remains unknown. Understanding the synergistic sequential roles of M1 and M2 macrophages in osteoimmunomodulation is crucial for effective bone tissue engineering. Thus, exploring the impact of bone surface microstructure mimicking biomaterials on macrophage polarization is critical. In this study, we aimed to sequentially activate M1 and M2 macrophages using Poly-l-Lactic acid (PLA) membranes with bone surface topographical features mimicked through the soft lithography technique. To mimic the bone surface topography, a bovine femur was used as a model surface, and the membranes were further modified with collagen type-I and hydroxyapatite to mimic the bone surface microenvironment. To determine the effect of these biomaterials on macrophage polarization, we conducted experimental analysis that contained estimating cytokine release profiles and characterizing cell morphology. Our results demonstrated the potential of the hydroxyapatite-deposited bone surface-mimicked PLA membranes to trigger sequential and synergistic M1 and M2 macrophage polarizations, suggesting their ability to achieve osteoimmunomodulatory macrophage polarization for bone tissue engineering applications. Although further experimental studies are required to completely investigate the osteoimmunomodulatory effects of these biomaterials, our results provide valuable insights into the potential advantages of biomaterials that mimic the complex microenvironment of bone surfaces.

Shengshan Ma,1,2,* Suyang Zheng,1,* Dong Li,3 Wenhao Hu,4 Liming Wang1 1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Sports Medicine, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Trauma Center, The Affiliated Changzhou No.2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Affiliated Huai’an No.1 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huai’an, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Liming Wang, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, 68 Changle Road, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-25-5227-1000, Fax +86-25-5226-9924, Email wlmnjsy@163.comPurpose: This study aims to explore a novel scaffold for osteotendinous junction regeneration and to preliminarily verify its osteogenic and tenogenic abilities in vitro.Methods: A polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold with aligned and orthogonal fibers was created using melt electrowriting (MEW) and fused deposition modeling (FDM). The scaffold was coated with Type I collagen, and hydroxyapatite was carefully added to separate the regions intended for bone and tendon regeneration, before being rolled into a cylindrical shape. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) were seeded to evaluate viability and differentiation. Scaffold characterization was performed with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Osteogenesis was assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Alizarin red staining, while immunostaining and transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) evaluated osteogenic and tendogenic markers.Results: Scaffolds were developed in four variations: aligned (A), collagen-coated aligned (A+C), orthogonal (O), and mineral-coated orthogonal (O+M). SEM analysis confirmed surface morphology and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) verified mineral coating on O+M types. Hydrophilicity and mechanical properties were optimized in modified scaffolds, with A+C showing increased tensile strength and O+M improved in compression. hADSCs demonstrated good viability and morphology across scaffolds, withO+M scaffolds showing higher cell proliferation and osteogenic potential, and A and A+C scaffolds supporting tenogenic differentiation.Conclusion: This study confirms the potential of a novel PCL scaffold with distinct regions for osteogenic and tenogenic differentiation, supporting the regeneration of osteotendinous junctions in vitro.Keywords: tendon-bone healing, biomimetic, electrospun scaffold, near-field direct writing, tissue engineering

[Display omitted] Orderly hierarchical structure with balanced mechanical, chemical, and electrical properties is the basis of the natural bone microenvironment. Inspired by nature, we developed a piezocatalytically-induced controlled mineralization strategy using piezoelectric polymer poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fibers with ordered micro-nano structures to prepare biomimetic tissue engineering scaffolds with a bone-like microenvironment (pcm-PLLA), in which PLLA-mediated piezoelectric catalysis promoted the in-situ polymerization of dopamine and subsequently regulated the controllable growth of hydroxyapatite crystals on the fiber surface. PLLA fibers, as analogs of mineralized collagen fibers, were arranged in an oriented manner, and ultimately formed a bone-like interconnected pore structure; in addition, they also provided bone-like piezoelectric properties. The uniformly sized HA nanocrystals formed by controlled mineralization provided a bone-like mechanical strength and chemical environment. The pcm-PLLA scaffold could rapidly recruit endogenous stem cells, and promote their osteogenic differentiation by activating cell membrane calcium channels and PI3K signaling pathways through ultrasound-responsive piezoelectric signals. In addition, the scaffold also provided a suitable microenvironment to promote macrophage M2 polarization and angiogenesis, thereby enhancing bone regeneration in skull defects of rats. The proposed piezocatalytically-induced controllable mineralization strategy provides a new idea for the development of tissue engineering scaffolds that can be implemented for multimodal physical stimulation therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of electronic skin with dual stealth functionality is crucial for enabling devices to operate effectively in dynamic electromagnetic environments, thereby facilitating intelligent electromagnetic protection for autonomous perception. However, achieving compatibility between terahertz (THz) and infrared (IR) stealth technologies remains largely unexplored due to their inherent contradictions. Herein, inspired by natural corals, a novel coral‐like multi‐scale composite foam (CMSF) was proposed that ingeniously reconciles these contradictions. The design capitalizes on the conductive network and heat insulation properties of the foam skeleton, the loss effects and low infrared emission of metal particles, and the infrared transparency of magneto‐optical materials. This approach leads to the realization of a THz‐IR bi‐stealth electronic skin concept. The CMSF exhibits a maximum reflection loss of 84.8 dB in the terahertz band, while its infrared stealth capability ensures environmental adaptability under varying temperatures. Furthermore, the electronic skin exhibits exceptional sensitivity and reliability as a wearable device for perceiving environmental changes. This advanced material, combining multispectral stealth with sensing capabilities, holds immense potential for applications ranging from camouflage technology to smart wearables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a series of amine-modified mesoporous silica (AMS)-based epoxy composites with superhydrophobic biomimetic structure surface of Xanthosoma sagittifolium leaves (XSLs) were prepared and applied as anti-corrosion and anti-biofilm coatings. Initially, the AMS was synthesized by the base-catalyzed sol–gel reaction of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and triethoxysilane (APTES) through a non-surfactant templating route. Subsequently, a series of AMS-based epoxy composites were prepared by performing the ring-opening polymerization of DGEBA with T-403 in the presence of AMS spheres, followed by characterization through FTIR, TEM, and CA. Furthermore, a nano-casting technique with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) as the soft template was utilized to transfer the surface pattern of natural XSLs to AMS-based epoxy composites, leading to the formation of AMS-based epoxy composites with biomimetic structure. From a hydrophilic CA of 69°, the surface of non-biomimetic epoxy significantly increased to 152° upon introducing XSL surface structure to the AMS-based epoxy composites. Based on the standard electrochemical anti-corrosion and anti-biofilm measurements, the superhydrophobic BEAMS3 composite was found to exhibit a remarkable anti-corrosion efficiency of ~99% and antimicrobial efficacy of 82% as compared to that of hydrophilic epoxy coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reinforcement of mechanically‐weak hydrogels to yield composites with increased stiffness, strength, or toughness is a well‐established approach. In particular, introducing electrospun nanofibers into hydrogels is a common strategy for biomedical applications, as the resulting hierarchical structure mimics biology and allows for control over fiber diameter and alignment and tuning of mechanical properties. However, further study of the link between the constituent materials and the mechanical properties of the composite is uncommon. One potential model to understand the mechanical properties of fiber‐reinforced hydrogels involves the Halpin–Tsai equations, which relate the modulus values of the fibers and hydrogel matrix and the fiber volume fraction, to the modulus of the composite. To assess the application of this model to fiber‐reinforced hydrogels, predicted values were compared with experimental values from mechanical testing of a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) matrix reinforced with an electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) fiber mat. Although the equations described these systems well in tension, providing a facile approach to identify a fiber volume fraction that will achieve a desired modulus, the Halpin–Tsai approach was less successful under compression. This study motivates additional investigation of the role of structural features of hydrogel composites in determining mechanical properties to enable design of materials for specific applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The blood coagulation test is an indispensable test for monitoring the blood coagulation and fibrinolysis functions. Currently, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is the most widely used approach to coagulation testing. However, APTT reagents need to be optimized due to the fact that they are unstable, highly variable, and cannot be easily controlled. In this study, we created apoptotic cell-inspired methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylserine (MPS) particles for blood coagulation as an alternative to conventional APTT reagents. Particle size could be controlled by changing the concentration of the polymer. The blood coagulation ability of particles was stable at different environmental temperatures. Moreover, the procoagulant activity could be enhanced by increasing the concentration to 0.06 mg/mL and reducing the size of the particles to around 900 nm. Fibrin clotted by particles showed no significant difference from that formed by APTT regent Actin FSL. We propose that MPS particles are a potential alternative to Actin FS for the application of blood coagulation tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of death in women all around the world. Several strategies are utilized for treatment of breast cancer & its types. Nanotechnology is gaining interest due to its advantage of nano size, variety in the nano carriers, suitable for hydrophobic drug loading, controlled and site-specific delivery. Because of reproducible synthesis and features like size, shape, and ease of surface modification, nanoparticles are frequently chosen. Further, certain nanoparticles allow for adjuvant therapy, which results in a synergistic therapeutic outcome. Such nanoparticles, however, are frequently detected by the immune system and eliminated from the circulation. Cellular membranes have been studied extensively as potential alternatives for augmenting anticancer treatments' biocompatibility and targeting abilities. Red blood cells (RBCs), cancer cells, platelets, and other cells have been identified as the sources of reported membrane-coated drug delivery systems. Each membrane's distinct ability to target breast cancer tumors and biomarkers is exploited. Thus, inspired by nature the cell membranes are used to camouflage nanoparticles in blood circulation to improve retention time and tumor targeting ability. These cell membrane cloaked NPs (CMCNPs) are therefore being researched for theranoustic, photothermal therapy and vaccine development for breast cancer. Here, we have covered the crucial procedures and significant problems involved in the synthesis and characterization of CMCNPs. This thorough overview of modified CMCNPs for breast cancer discusses cell membrane cloaking techniques, as well as the prospects and limitations for clinical use in breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is revolutionizing fields of high social and economic impact. such as human health preservation, energy conversion and storage, environmental decontamination, and art restoration. However, the possible global-scale application of nanomaterials is raising increasing concerns, mostly related to the possible toxicity of materials at the nanoscale. The possibility of using nanomaterials in cosmetics, and hence in products aimed to be applied directly to the human body, even just externally, is strongly debated. Preoccupation arises especially from the consideration that nanomaterials are mostly of synthetic origin, and hence are often seen as "artificial" and their effects as unpredictable. Melanin, in this framework, is a unique material since in nature it plays important roles that specific cosmetics are aimed to cover, such as photoprotection and hair and skin coloration. Moreover, melanin is mostly present in nature in the form of nanoparticles, as is clearly observable in the ink of some animals, like cuttlefish. Moreover, artificial melanin nanoparticles share the same high biocompatibility of the natural ones and the same unique chemical and photochemical properties. Melanin is hence a natural nanocosmetic agent, but its actual application in cosmetics is still under development, also because of regulatory issues. Here, we critically discuss the most recent examples of the application of natural and biomimetic melanin to cosmetics and highlight the requirements and future steps that would improve melanin-based cosmetics in the view of future applications in the everyday market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) as one of the most lethal brain tumours, remains poor therapeutic index due to its typical characters including heterogeneous, severe immune suppression as well as the existence of blood brain barrier (BBB). Immune sonodynamic (ISD) therapy combines noninvasive sonodynamic therapy with immunotherapy, which has great prospects for the combinational treatment of GBM. Herein, we develop macrophage cell membrane cloaked reactive oxygen species (ROS) responsive biomimetic nanoparticles, co-delivering of sonosensitizer Ce6 and JQ1 (a bromo-domain protein 4 (BRD4) inhibitor which can down-regulate PD-L1) and realizing potent GBM ISD therapy. The ApoE peptide decorated macrophage membrane coating endows these biomimetic nanoparticles with low immunogenicity, efficient BBB permeability, prolonged blood circulation half-live and good biocompatibility. The ROS responsive polymeric inner core could be readily degraded as triggered by excessive ROS under the ultrasound once they accumulated in tumour cells, fast release encapsulated drugs. The generation of ROS not only killed tumour cells via sonodynamic therapy, but also induced immunogenic cell death (ICD) and further activated the anti-tumour immune response. The released JQ1 inhibited tumour cell proliferation and augmented the immune activities by inhibiting the PD-L1 expression on the surface of tumour cells. The cascade sonodynamic and immune therapy resulted in significantly improved median survival time in both orthotopic GL261 and PTEN deficient immunosuppressive CT2A GBM mice models. Therefore, our developed biomimetic nanoparticle platform provides a promising combinational therapy strategy to treat immune suppressive GBM. [Display omitted] • We have developed a biomimetic nanoplatform that realizes combinational strategy of immunotherapy and sonodynamic therapy for GBM treatment. • The biomimetic nanoparticle mediated combinational therapy achieved synergistic anti-tumour effects in vitro and in vivo , resulting in significantly improved survival in orthotopic GL261 and PTEN deficient immunosuppressive CT2A mice models. • The developed biomimetic nanoparticles possess unique features including good biocompatibility, prolonged blood circulation, enhanced blood brain barrier permeability, active tumour cell targeting and non-invasive ultrasound activated drug release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]