Quality-by-Design Optimization of Electrospinning Parameters to Formulate Scaffolds for Topical Inflammatory Disease Management via Drug Repurposing

This study investigates the fabrication of chitosan (CS)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) blend nanofibers via electrospinning, aiming to create nanofibers with enhanced properties for broad applications. The research focuses on optimizing electrospinning parameters to reduce bead formation and achieve uniform nanofiber morphology. A detailed experimental design, employing a nineteen-point plan developed with Design-Expert software, examined variables such as polymer concentration, distance from the needle to the collector, the required voltage, and the rate at which solution was ejected from the needle. Morphological characteristics of the nanofibers were analyzed using advanced microscopy, complemented by drug release and wound healing assessments. The optimal electrospinning conditions were determined to be a 1:3 CS/PVA solution concentration ratio, an 8 cm needle-to-collector distance, a 20 kV applied voltage, and a 1 mL/hour flow rate. Scanning electron microscopy revealed uniform nanofibers with diameters between 100 to 250 nm, devoid of bead defects. In-vitro analysis demonstrated a sustained release profile of azilsartan (AZL), while in-vivo studies on rats indicated enhanced wound healing, corroborated by histological examination. The findings suggest that CS/PVA nanofibers, fabricated under these conditions, possess promising characteristics for use as a drug-delivery scaffold in wound treatment applications.

3D printed Mg-incorporated polycaprolactone scaffolds for repairing rat skull defects / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To evaluate the bone repair effect of 3D-printed magnesium (Mg)-loaded polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds in a rat skull defect model.@*Methods@#PCL scaffolds mixed with Mg microparticles were prepared by using 3D printing technology, as were pure PCL scaffolds. The surface morphologies of the two scaffolds were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the surface elemental composition was analyzed via energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The physical properties of the scaffolds were characterized through contact angle measurements and an electronic universal testing machine. This study has been reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee. A critical size defect model was established in the skull of 15 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, which were divided into the PCL group, PCL-Mg group, and untreated group, with 5 rats in each group. Micro-CT scanning was performed to detect and analyze skull defect healing at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery, and samples from the skull defect area and major organs of the rats were obtained for histological staining at 8 weeks after surgery.@*Results@#The scaffolds had a pore size of (480 ± 25) μm, a fiber diameter of (300 ± 25) μm, and a porosity of approximately 66%. The PCL-Mg scaffolds contained 1.0 At% Mg, indicating successful incorporation of Mg microparticles. The contact angle of the PCL-Mg scaffolds was 68.97° ± 1.39°, indicating improved wettability compared to that of pure PCL scaffolds. Additionally, compared with that of pure PCL scaffolds, the compressive modulus of the PCL-Mg scaffolds was (57.37 ± 8.33) MPa, demonstrating enhanced strength. The PCL-Mg group exhibited the best bone formation behavior in the skull defect area compared with the control group and PCL group at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. Moreover, quantitative parameters, such as bone volume (BV), bone volume/total volume (BV/TV), bone surface (BS), bone surface/total volume (BS/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), trabecular number (Tb.N) and bone mineral density (BMD), of skull defects were better than those in the other groups, indicating the best bone regeneration effect. H&E, Goldner, and VG staining revealed more mineralized new bone formation in the PCL-Mg group than in the other groups, and H&E staining of the major organs revealed good biosafety of the material.@*Conclusion@#PCL-Mg scaffolds can promote the repair of bone defects and have clinical potential as a new scaffold material for the repair of maxillofacial bone defects.

Influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite to scaffolds on proliferation and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells: a systematic review of in vitro studies

One of the main challenges of tissue engineering in dentistry is to replace bone and dental tissues with strategies or techniques that simulate physiological tissue repair conditions. This systematic review of in vitro studies aimed to evaluate the influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite (NHap) to scaffolds on cell proliferation and osteogenic and odontogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro studies on human stem cells that proliferated and differentiated into odontogenic and osteogenic cells in scaffolds containing NHap were included in this study. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, OpenGrey, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were performed. The total of 333 articles was found across all databases. After reading and analyzing titles and abstracts, 8 articles were selected for full reading and extraction of qualitative data. Results showed that despite the large variability in scaffold composition, NHap-containing scaffolds promoted high rates of cell proliferation, increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity during short culture periods, and induced differentiation, as evidenced by the high expression of genes involved in osteogenesis and odontogenesis. However, further studies with greater standardization regarding NHap concentration, type of scaffolds, and evaluation period are needed to observe possible interference of these criteria in the action of NHap on the proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells.

Avances en endodoncia regenerativa: reporte de caso con uso de la membrana amniótica humana / Advances in regenerative endodontics: report of a case using a human amniotic membrane

Los procedimientos endodónticos regenerativos (REPs) representan una evolución significativa en el campo de la endodoncia, buscando no sólo tratar la infección o lesión presente en el diente, sino tam-bién promover la regeneración de los tejidos denta-rios afectados. El presente caso clínico muestra un incisivo lateral superior izquierdo con apexogénesis incompleta y diagnóstico de absceso alveolar crónico reagudizado en una paciente de 22 años, en el que se aplicó un procedimiento de endodoncia regenerativa (REPs). La estrategia terapéutica elegida se basó en los principios de ingeniería tisular, incorporando la novedosa aplicación de la membrana amniótica hu-mana liofilizada esterilizada como andamio bioactivo intraconducto. Las evaluaciones clínicas, radiográ-ficas y tomográficas a corto, mediano y largo plazo revelaron el éxito de la terapia. La resolución exitosa mostró en los controles a la pieza dentaria asintomá-tica, con una notable remisión de la patología apical, aumento de la longitud radicular y disminución del calibre apical. Se ha podido destacar la eficacia de los REPs, con una exitosa aplicabilidad de la membra-na amniótica como andamio innovador (AU)

Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) represent a significant evolution in the field of endodontics, aiming not only to address the infection or injury within the tooth, but also to promote the regeneration of the affected dental tissues. In this clinical case, an upper left lateral incisor with incomplete apexogenesis and diagnosis of acute exacerbation of a chronic periapical lesion in a 22-year-old patient is presented. A regenerative endodontic procedure (REPs) was applied. The chosen therapeutic strategy was based on tissue engineering principles, incorporating the innovative use of sterilized lyophilized human amniotic membrane as an intraconduct bioactive scaffold. Clinical, radiographic, and tomographic assessments at short, medium, and long-term follow-up revealed the success of the therapy. Successful resolution demonstrated an asymptomatic tooth in the follow-up, with a notable resolution of apical pathology, increased root length, and decreased apical caliber. The effectiveness of REPs has been highlighted, demonstrating the successful applicability of amniotic membrane as an innovative scaffold (AU)

DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTERIZATION, AND EVALUATION OF THE ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES OF BIODEGRADABLE POROUS SCAFFOLDS LOADED WITH NATURAL VANILLIN

Objective: The study's objective is to create biodegradable porous scaffolds that are filled with natural vanillin and assess their in vitro antibacterial activity.Methods: Scaffolds were fabricated by blending different ratios of chitosan and gelatin along with vanillin using the freeze-drying method. Then the following characterization and evaluation of scaffolds, such as FTIR, SEM, porosity, swelling behaviour, degradation studies, in vitro drug release, and antibacterial studies, were carried out.Results: All of the scaffolds that were created had heterogeneous, well-connected pores and were pale yellow in color. This was validated by SEM, where the porosity is greater than 80% and the mean pore size ranges from 105.25±6.35 µm to 188.58±7.51 µm. With an increase in gelatin concentration, all of the scaffolds showed the maximum water absorption and retention capabilities of 760.15%±4.38% and 664.73%±5.82%. In the 7-day degradation investigation, all samples lost close to 60% of their mass. In the formulation CG11, the vanillin was released gradually over about 96 h. According to the present study, the developed scaffolds CG13-A and CG13-B, as well as CG11-A and CG11-B, displayed a higher zone of inhibition.Conclusion: Due to its potent antibacterial capabilities, it may be inferred from the current research that vanillin clothed in chitosan-gelatin scaffolds would be a superior option for treating various wound infections, including diabetic wounds.

Biological characterization of a biodegradable scaffold for common bile duct replacement in an experimental model

Background: The nanofiber scaffolds achieved by the electrospinning technique have been used to develop several biological tissues, the nanofibers obtained by electrospinning procure a favorable microenvironment to mimic the extracellular matrix. Methods: Study type was of experimental. Study conducted at National Autonomous University of Mexico, from May 2018- May 2022. The protocol was approved by the research and ethics commissions of the UNAM school of medicine. A viscoelastic solution of polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) in a 70:30 ratio and gelatin (Gel) in an 80:20 ratio was prepared while a dynamic collector was used with the electrospinning technique. Results: Mechanical and biological tests were carried out on the scaffold obtained by electrospinning; the resultant scaffold achieves good mechanical matching and structural similarity between the graft and the extrahepatic bile duct. Conclusions: In this study we managed to create a porous, biocompatible scaffold with good cell adhesion and proliferation, potentially applicable to tissue engineering, especially for the replacement of tubular organs such as blood vessels, bile ducts, and urethra.

Effect of pH on the chelation between strontium ions and decellularized small intestinal submucosal sponge scaffolds / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the preparation of decellularized small intestinal submucosa (dSIS) sponge scaffolds with chelated strontium (Sr) ions at different pH values, and to select the appropriate pH values for synthesizing Sr/dSIS scaffolds using the physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of the scaffolds as evaluation indexes.@*METHODS@#(1) Sr/dSIS scaffolds preparation and grouping: After mixing dSIS solution and strontium chloride solution in equal volumes, adjusting pH of the solution to 3, 5, 7, and 9 respectively, porous scaffolds were prepared by freeze-drying method after full reaction at 37℃, which were named Sr/dSIS-3, -5, -7, and -9 respectively, and the dSIS scaffolds were used as the control group. (2) Physicochemical property evaluation: The bulk morphology of the scaffolds was observed in each group, the microscopic morphology analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, and the porosity and pore size determined, the surface elements analyzed by energy spectroscopy, the structure of functional groups analyzed by infrared spectroscopy, the chelation rate determined by atomic spectrophotometry, the water absorption rate detected by using specific gravity method, and the compression strength evaluated by universal mechanical testing machine.(3) Biocompatibility evaluation: The cytotoxicity and proliferative effect to bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) of each group were evaluated by Calcein-AM/PI double staining method.@*RESULTS@#Scanning electron microscopy showed that the scaffolds of each group had an interconnected three-dimensional porous structure with no statistical difference in pore size and porosity. Energy spectrum analysis showed that strontium could be detected in Sr/dSIS-5, -7 and -9 groups, and strontium was uniformly distributed in the scaffolds. Functional group analysis further supported the formation of chelates in the Sr/dSIS-5, -7 and -9 groups. Chelation rate analysis showed that the Sr/dSIS-7 group had the highest strontium chelation rate, which was statistically different from the other groups (P < 0.05). The scaffolds in all the groups had good water absorption. The scaffolds in Sr/dSIS-5, -7 and -9 groups showed significantly improved mechanical properties compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The scaffolds in all the groups had good biocompatibility, and the Sr/dSIS-7 group showed the best proliferation of BMSCs.@*CONCLUSION@#When pH was 7, the Sr/dSIS scaffolds showed the highest strontium chelation rate and the best proliferation effect of BMSCs, which was the ideal pH value for the preparation of the Sr/dSIS scaffolds.

A cervical cancer tissue-derived decellularized extracellular matrix scaffold for cervical cancer tissue reconstruction in vitro / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#The prepare decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold materials derived from human cervical carcinoma tissues for 3D culture of cervical carcinoma cells.@*METHODS@#Fresh human cervical carcinoma tissues were treated with sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) solution to prepare decellularized ECM scaffolds. The scaffolds were examined for ECM microstructure and residual contents of key ECM components (collagen, glycosaminoglycan, and elastin) and genetic materials by pathological staining and biochemical content analysis. In vitro 3D culture models were established by injecting cultured cervical cancer cells into the prepared ECM scaffolds. The cells in the recellularized scaffolds were compared with those in a conventional 2D culture system for cell behaviors including migration, proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) wsing HE staining, immunohistochemical staining and molecular biological technology analysis. Resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) of the cells in the two culture systems was tested by analyzing the cell apoptosis rates via flow cytometry.@*RESULTS@#SLES treatment effectively removed cells and genetic materials from human cervical carcinoma tissues but well preserved the microenvironment structure and biological activity of ECM. Compared with the 2D culture system, the 3D culture models significantly promoted proliferation, migration, EMT and 5-Fu resistance of human cervical cancer cells.@*CONCLUSION@#The decellularized ECM scaffolds prepared using human cervical carcinoma tissues provide the basis for construction of in vitro 3D culture models for human cervical cancer cells.

Impacts of different types of triply periodic minimal surface on performance of bone scaffolds: a review / 中华创伤杂志

Bone defects, often accompanied by osteomyelitis, soft tissue contusions, etc, are facing lengthy treatment process and slow healing, seriously jeopardizing the structural integrity of the human bone tissue. Currently, the main treatment for bone defects involves autologous or allogeneic bone transplant. However, autologous bone transplant poses problems, including long surgical duration, increased pain and complications such as infections. Additionally, immune rejection reactions also limit the effectiveness of allogeneic bone transplant of the same species. Bone scaffolds have become a potential alternative for bone transplant, but problems such as sharp edges of the scaffolds and poor compatibility with human tissues exist. Triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS), with an average curvature of zero has lower levels of stress concentration and the ability to be precisely expressed with mathematical formulas, compared with other structures. Its application in bone scaffolds attracts much attention, but there is currently a lack of comprehensive understanding of the impacts of different types of TPMS on the performance of bone scaffolds. With this purpose, the authors reviewed the research progress in the impacts of different types of TPMS on the performance of bone scaffolds, providing a reference for the construction of bone scaffolds.

Recent advances of acellular cartilage matrix in cartilage regeneration / 中华骨科杂志

Osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease, and cartilage damage is often considered an early factor in irreversible joint degeneration. Repairing damaged cartilage remains a medical challenge due to its limited ability to self-repair and regenerate. In recent years, the application of tissue engineering strategies to treat cartilage defects has been recognized as an emerging therapeutic avenue. Acellular cartilage matrix (ACM) is an ideal material for cartilage repair and regeneration as it retains the extracellular matrix structure and bioactive components of natural cartilage, mimicking the extracellular environment of natural cartilage to the greatest extent. Type II collagen is the main type of hyaline cartilage and plays an important role in regulating the mechanical properties of cartilage tissue. It has been shown that type II collagen, growth factors and the hypoxic microenvironment play important roles in promoting cartilage regeneration. Type II collagen induces cell aggregation and chondrogenic differentiation in a specific way; Various growth factors contained in the ACM induce Sox9 expression and promote chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells; The hypoxic microenvironment upregulates the expression of type II collagen (COL2A1), Sox9 and maintains chondrocyte phenotype. In addition, ACM has been widely used in cartilage regeneration studies, either as a decellularized scaffold, hydrogel or 3D bioprinting technique for the repair of defective cartilage. Although the ACM-derived biomaterials discussed in this paper have many advantages, there are still some difficulties in their practical applications, such as loss of ACM components and reduced scaffold performance, which are still worth exploring in depth.

Funcionalização de matriz colágena estável em volume utilizando Fibrina Rica em Plaquetas injetável (i-PRF) para o tratamento de Recessão Gengival unitária / Volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) biofunctionalized wit injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) for the treatment of single gingival recession: randomized clinical trial

Substitutos de enxerto de tecido conjuntivo têm sido amplamente utilizados para superar as limitações dos enxertos autógenos no tratamento de defeitos dos tecidos moles periodontais e peri-implantares. No entanto, o desempenho clínico desses biomateriais ainda é inferior. A biofuncionalização de matrizes colágenas usando fibrina rica em plaquetas injetável (i-PRF) foi proposta como uma estratégia para aprimorar a bioatividade e, portanto, a eficácia clínica desses substitutos mucosos. Desta forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do uso da matriz colágena estável em volume (FG) biofuncionalizada com i-PRF no tratamento de recessões gengivais unitárias (RGs) do ponto de vista clínico, estético e de parâmetros centrados no paciente. Para tal, foram selecionados 66 pacientes portadores de RGs unitárias RT1, os quais foram alocados aleatoriamente em um dos seguintes grupos: grupo CAF (n=22), retalho posicionado coronariamente (CAF); grupo CAF+FG (n=22), CAF associado à FG; e grupo CAF+FG+i-PRF (n=22), CAF associado à FG biofuncionalizada com i-PRF. Após 6 meses, os três grupos apresentaram taxas de recobrimento radicular significativas [CAF: 69,1% (2,02 ± 1,06 mm); CAF+FG: 67,44% (1,7 ± 0,81 mm) e CAF+FG+i-PRF: 64,92% (1,64 ± 0,80 mm), sem diferença entre os grupos (p=0,33). Os grupos que receberam os biomateriais forneceram um maior ganho em espessura de tecido queratinizado (ETQ) (CAF: 0,12 ± 0,2 mm; CAF+FG: 0,43 ± 0,24 mm; CAF+FG+i-PRF: 0,48 ± 0,25 mm; p=0,000). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas em termos de altura de tecido queratinizado em nenhum dos grupos e tempos avaliados (p>0,05). Todos os grupos apresentaram redução significativa da hipersensibilidade dentinária e melhorias nas condições estéticas (p>0,05). Também não foram observadas diferenças em termos de dor e morbidade pósoperatórias (p>0,05). Dentro das limitações do presente estudo, conclui-se que as três abordagens forneceram resultados semelhantes e satisfatórios após 6 meses de acompanhamento. A adição da FG, biofuncionalizada ou não com i-PRF, proporcionou benefícios adicionais em termos de ganho de ETQ. (AU)

Soft tissue graft substitutes have been widely used to overcome the limitations of autogenous grafts in the treatment of periodontal and peri-implant soft tissue defects. However, the clinical performance of these biomaterials is still inferior. The biofunctionalization of collagen matrices using injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) has been proposed as a strategy to enhance the bioactivity and, therefore, the clinical efficacy of these biomaterials. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of using biofunctionalized volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) with i-PRF in the treatment of single gingival recessions (GRs) from clinical, esthetic, and patient-centered parameters. For this purpose, 66 patients with single RT GRs were selected and randomly allocated to one of the following groups: CAF group (n=22), coronally advanced flap (CAF); CAF+VCMX group (n=22), CAF combined with VCMX; and CAF+ VCMX +iPRF group (n=22), CAF combined with biofunctionalized VCMX with i-PRF. After 6 months, all three groups exhibited significant root coverage rates [CAF: 69.1% (2.02 ± 1.06 mm); CAF+FG: 67.44% (1.7 ± 0.81 mm); and CAF+FG+iPRF: 64.92% (1.64 ± 0.80 mm), with no difference between the groups (p=0.33). The groups that received the biomaterials showed a greater gain in keratinized tissue thickness (KTT) (CAF: 0.12 ± 0.2 mm; CAF+FG: 0.43 ± 0.24 mm; CAF+FG+i-PRF: 0.48 ± 0.25 mm; p=0.000). No significant differences were observed in terms of keratinized tissue height in any of the groups and assessed time points (p>0.05). All groups showed a significant reduction in dentin hypersensitivity and improvements in esthetic conditions (p>0.05). No differences were also observed in terms of post-operative pain and morbidity (p>0.05). Within the limitations of this study, it is concluded that all three approaches provided similar and satisfactory results after 6 months of follow-up. The addition of VCMX, whether biofunctionalized or not with i-PRF, provided additional benefits in terms of keratinized tissue thickness gain. (AU)

Automated Assessment of Cell Infiltration and Removal in Decellularized Scaffolds - Experimental Study in Rabbits / Avaliação automatizada da infiltração e remoção celular em scaffolds descelularizados - Estudo experimental em coelhos

Abstract Objective Semiquantitative and automated measurement of nuclear material removal and cell infiltration in decellularized tendon scaffolds (DTSs). Method 16 pure New Zealand rabbits were used, and the gastrocnemius muscle tendon was collected bilaterally from half of these animals (16 tendons collected); 4 were kept as control and 12 were submitted to the decellularization protocol (DTS). Eight of the DTSs were used as an in vivo implant in the experimental rotator cuff tear (RCT) model, and the rest, as well as the controls, were used in the semiquantitative and automated evaluation of nuclear material removal. The eight additional rabbits were used to make the experimental model of RCT and subsequent evaluation of cellular infiltration after 2 or 8 weeks, within the DTS. Results The semiquantitative and automated analysis used demonstrated a removal of 79% of nuclear material (p< 0.001 and power > 99%) and a decrease of 88% (p < 0.001 and power >99%) in the area occupied by nuclear material after the decellularization protocol. On cell infiltration in DTS, an increase of 256% (p < 0.001 and power >99%) in the number of cells within the DTS was observed in the comparison between 2 and 8 weeks postoperatively. Conclusion The proposed semiquantitative and automated measurement method was able to objectively measure the removal of nuclear material and cell infiltration in DTS.

Resumo Objetivo Mensuração semiquantitativa e automatizada da remoção de material nuclear e da infiltração celular em scaffolds tendinosos descelularizados (STDs). Método Foram utilizados 16 coelhos Nova Zelândia puros, sendo o tendão do músculo gastrocnêmio coletado bilateralmente de metade destes animais (16 tendões coletados); 4 foram mantidos como controle e 12 foram submetidos ao protocolo de descelularização (STD). Dos STDs, 8 foram utilizados como implante in vivo no modelo experimental de lesão do manguito rotador (LMR) e os restantes, assim como os controles, foram utilizados na avaliação semiquantitativa e automatizada da remoção de material nuclear. Os oito coelhos adicionais foram utilizados na confecção do modelo experimental de LMR e posterior avaliação da infiltração celular após 2 ou 8 semanas, dentro do STD. Resultados A análise semiquantitativa e automatizada utilizada demonstrou uma remoção de 79% do material nuclear (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) e uma diminuição de 88% (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) na área ocupada por material nuclear após o protocolo de descelularização. Sobre a infiltração celular no STD, foi observado um aumento de 256% (p< 0,001 e poder > 99%) no número de células dentro do STD na comparação entre 2 e 8 semanas de pós-operatório. Conclusão O método de mensuração semiquantitativo e automatizado proposto foi capaz de mensurar objetivamente a remoção de material nuclear e a infiltração celular no STD.

The effect of scaffold hydroxyapatite derived from portunus pelagicus shell on the expression of fibroblast growth factor-2 (fgf-2) and bone morphogenetic proteins-2 (bmp -2) in the extraction sockets of cavia cobaya / El efecto del scaffold de hidroxiapatita derivada de portunus pelagicus sobre la expresión del factor de crecimiento de fibroblastos-2 (FGF-2) y las proteínas morfogenéticas óseas-2 (BMP-2) en los alvéolos dentarios de cavia cobaya

Objetive: To determine the expression of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF)-2 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP)-2 after application of scaffold hydroxyapatite from Rajungan crab shell (Portunus pelagicus) in the tooth extraction socket of Cavia cobaya. Material and Methods: This study used a post-test only control group design with 28 Cavia cobaya separated into two groups, control and treatment group. The left mandibular incisor was extracted, and socket preservation was conducted. A hydroxyapatite graft derived from crab shells was mixed with gelatin and eventually turned into a scaffold, which was afterward put into the extraction socket. After 7 days and 14 days, each group was terminated and examined using immunohistochemical staining to observe the expression of FGF-2 and BMP-2. One-Way Anova and Tukey HSD were used to examine the research data. Results: FGF-2 and BMP-2 expressions were observed higher in the group that received hydroxyapatite scaffold at the post-extraction socket than those in the group that did not receive hydroxyapatite scaffold. Conclusion: The application of a hydroxyapatite scaffold from Rajungan crab shell (Portunus pelagicus) to the tooth extraction socket can increase FGF-2 and BMP-2 expression.

Objetivo: Determinar la expresión del factor de crecimiento de fibroblastos (FGF)-2 y la proteína morfogenética ósea (BMP)-2 después de la aplicación de hidroxiapatita de andamio de caparazón de cangrejo Rajungan (Portunus pelagicus) en el alvéolo de extracción dental de Cavia cobaya. Material y Métodos: Este estudio utilizó un diseño de grupo de control solo posterior a la prueba con 28 Cavia cobaya separados en dos grupos, grupo de control y grupo de tratamiento. Se extrajo el incisivo mandibular izquierdo y se realizó la preservación del alvéolo. Un injerto de hidroxiapatita derivado de caparazones de cangrejo se mezcló con gelatina y se convirtió en un andamio, que luego se colocó en el alvéolo de extracción. Después de 7 días y 14 días, se terminó cada grupo y se examinó mediante tinción inmunohistoquímica para observar la expresión de FGF-2 y BMP-2. Se utilizaron One-Way Anova y Tukey HSD para examinar los datos de la investigación. Resultados: Las expresiones de FGF-2 y BMP-2 se observaron más altas en el grupo que recibió la estructura de hidroxiapatita en el alvéolo posterior a la extracción que en el grupo que no recibió la estructura de hidroxiapatita. Conclusión: La aplicación de un andamio de hidroxiapatita de caparazón de cangrejo Rajungan (Portunus pelagicus) al alvéolo de extracción dental puede aumentar la expresión de FGF-2 y BMP-2.

New strategies for cartilage regeneration in tissue-engineered trachea / 国际外科学杂志

The normal ventilatory function is severely impaired by tracheal traumas, stenoses, tumors and some congenital diseases, which could result in tissue hypoxia and endangering the life of the patient. Resection and reconstruction of tracheal lesions is the most effective way to treat these diseases. At present, there is still no long-term safe and reliable method to achieve the reconstruction of long-segment trachea injury in clinical practice, and tissue-engineered trachea may be the solution to this situation. Cartilage, as one of the most important parts of tissue engineered trachea, plays a key role in providing mechanical support and maintaining the integrity of trachea. Tracheal tissue engineering cartilage regeneration process consists of several important parts, including the source of the cartilage cells, tissue engineering scaffold construction strategy and hydrogel composite scaffold material preparation, and the affecting factors of biological activity and application. This article reviews the new strategies of tissue engineered tracheal cartilage regeneration and the existing obstacles in order to provide reference for clinical practice.

Effects of polydopamine-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with zoledronic acid-gelatin nanoparticles for topical sustained drug release on osteoclasts: an in vitro study / 中华创伤骨科杂志

Objective:To analyze the effects of a novel type of polydopamine (PDA)-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with zoledronic acid-gelatin nanoparticles (ZOL-GNPs) for topical sustained drug release on osteoclasts in vitro. Methods:After porous titanium alloy scaffolds were fabricated using electron beam melting technique and ZOL-GNPs with different ZOL concentrations (0, 1, 10, 50, 100, 500 μmol/L) were prepared by desolvation method, PDA-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with ZOL-GNPs were constructed by combining the two. The characteristics of the scaffolds were analyzed. The biomechanics of 3 different scaffolds (bare porous titanium alloy scaffolds, PDA-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds, and PDA-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with ZOL-GNPs) were investigated. Drug release detection was carried out by high performance liquid chromatography on the 1st, 4th, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th days respectively. The osteoclasts were inoculated into the novel scaffolds with different ZOL concentrations. The expression of osteoclast-related genes was detected by real-time quantitative (RT)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR); the expression of osteoclast-related proteins was detected by Western-blot.Results:The PDA-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with ZOL-GNPs were successfully constructed. Electron microscope scanning showed that the GNPs were well spheroidized, smooth in surface, and uniformly dispersed, with a particle size of (243.6±63.4) nm. The ZOL-GNPs were uniformly compounded on the surface and in the pores of the scaffolds, and the spheres were regular in shape with no adhesion. The biomechanical experiments showed that the elastic moduli of the porous titanium alloy scaffolds under 3 different conditions were (1.81±0.12) GPa, (1.80±0.23) GPa and (1.81±0.15) GPa, showing no significant difference ( P> 0.05). The drug release percentage in the porous titanium alloy scaffolds was obviously high on the first day, and increased gradually and slowly in the subsequent 27 days. In the scaffolds with a low concentration ZOL, more osteoclasts adhered and proliferated; in the 50 μmol/L scaffolds, spheroid cells appeared; the spheroid cells increased and even apoptosis occurred with an increase in the ZOL concentration. RT-PCR showed that the expression of Ctsk gene and TRAP gene increased with the increased ZOL concentration, peaked in the 50 μmol/L scaffolds, and then decreased with the increased concentration, showing statistically significant differences ( P < 0.05). Western-blot showed that the expression pattern of Ctsk and TRAP was similar to that of their related genes. Conclusions:The novel PDA-coated porous titanium alloy scaffolds loaded with ZOL-GNPs demonstrate good mechanical properties and an anti-osteoporosis effect via their topical sustained drug release. The scaffolds with a ZOL concentration of 50 μmol/L may exert the best effect on inhibition of osteoclasts.

Effects of different crosslinking treatments on the properties of decellularized small intestinal submucosa porous scaffolds / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the effects of three different crosslinkers on the biocompatibility, physical and chemical properties of decellularized small intestinal submucosa (SIS) porous scaffolds.@*METHODS@#The SIS porous scaffolds were prepared by freeze-drying method and randomly divided into three groups, then crosslinked by glutaraldehyde (GA), 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodi-imide (EDC) and procyanidine (PA) respectively. To evaluate the physicochemical property of each sample in different groups, the following experiments were conducted. Macroscopic morphologies were observed and recorded. Microscopic morphologies of the scaffolds were observed using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and representative images were selected. Computer software (ImageJ) was used to calculate the pore size and porosity. The degree of crosslinking was determined by ninhydrin experiment. Collagenase degradation experiment was performed to assess the resistance of SIS scaffolds to enzyme degradation. To evaluate the mechanical properties, universal mechanical testing machine was used to determine the stress-strain curve and compression strength was calculated. Human bone marrow mesenchymal cells (hBMSCs) were cultured on the scaffolds after which cytotoxicity and cell proliferation were assessed.@*RESULTS@#All the scaffolds remained intact after different crosslinking treatments. The FESEM images showed uniformed interconnected micro structures of scaffolds in different groups. The pore size of EDC group[(161.90±13.44) μm] was significantly higher than GA group [(149.50±14.65) μm] and PA group[(140.10±12.06) μm] (P < 0.05). The porosity of PA group (79.62%±1.14%) was significantly lower than EDC group (85.11%±1.71%) and GA group (84.83%±1.89%) (P < 0.05). PA group showed the highest degree of crosslinking whereas the lowest swelling ratio. There was a significant difference in the swelling ratio of the three groups (P < 0.05). Regarding to the collagenase degradation experiment, the scaffolds in PA group showed a significantly lower weight loss rate than the other groups after 7 days degradation. The weight loss rates of GA group were significantly higher than those of the other groups on day 15, whereas the PA group had the lowest rate after 10 days and 15 days degradation. PA group showed better mechanical properties than the other two groups. More living cells could be seen in PA and EDC groups after live/dead cell staining. Additionally, the proliferation rate of hBMCSs was faster in PA and EDC groups than in GA group.@*CONCLUSION@#The scaffolds gained satisfying degree of crosslinking after three different crosslinking treatments. The samples after PA and EDC treatment had better physicochemical properties and biocompatibility compared with GA treatment. Crosslinking can be used as a promising and applicable method in the modification of SIS scaffolds.

Development of Films, Based on Oxidized Ipomea Batatas Starch, with Protein Encapsulation / Desarrollo de Películas, Basadas en Almidón Oxidado de Ipomea Batatas, con Encapsulación de Proteínas

ABSTRACT Dialdehyde starches (DAS) have been used as biomaterials due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability; nonetheless, sweet potato (Ipomea batatas L.) starch has not been researched. Films based on sweet potato DAS, mixed with native starch (NS), poly-vinyl alcohol (PVA) and glycerin have been developed with protein encapsulation, using central composite design (CCD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Input variables were oxidation degree, NS concentration and polymeric mixture volume, while output variables were film's thickness, equilibrium swelling and BSA (Bovine serum albumin) release. DAS was obtained through hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) oxidation, and the oxidation degree is referred to as H2O2 concentration. Films presented rough surfaces, and formulations containing 10% H2O2 DAS presented micropores. Water uptake was greater with higher DAS content. Film thickness depended on the volume of the polymeric suspension and influenced swelling capacity. According to RSM, the optimal formulation was DAS with 5% H2O2 and 35% NS. These results demonstrate that oxidized sweet potato starch has potential for protein encapsulation and delivery.

RESUMEN Almidones dialdehído (DAS) se han utilizado como biomateriales por su biocompatibilidad y biodegradabilidad; sin embargo, el almidón de camote (Ipomea batatas L.) no ha sido investigado. Se han desarrollado películas de DAS de camote, con almidón nativo (NS), alcohol polivinílico (PVA) y glicerina con encapsulación de proteínas, utilizando un diseño central compuesto (CCD) y metodología de superficie de respuesta (RSM). Las variables de entrada fueron: grado de oxidación, concentración de NS y volumen de la mezcla polimérica, mientras que las variables de salida fueron: espesor de la película, hinchamiento y liberación de BSA (Albúmina de Suero Bovino) en equilibrio. DAS se obtuvo mediante oxidación con peróxido de hidrógeno (H2O2), y el grado de oxidación se define como concentración de H2O2. Las películas presentaron superficies rugosas y las formulaciones con 10% H2O2 DAS presentaron microporos. La absorción de agua fue mayor con mayor contenido de DAS. El espesor de la película dependió del volumen de la mezcla polimérica e influyó en la capacidad de hinchamiento. Según RSM, la formulación óptima fue DAS con 5% H2O2 y 35% NS. Estos resultados demuestran que el almidón de camote oxidado tiene potencial para aplicaciones en la encapsulación y liberación de proteínas.

Experimental Advance in Seed Cells and Biological Scaffolds for Spinal Cord Tissue Engineering (review) / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To explore the problems of seed cells and biological scaffolds in spinal cord tissue engineering, and review the recent experimental research. Methods:Related literatures were searched in CNKI, Wangfang data, PubMed and Web of Science from establishment to March, 2021, and the problems and progress of seed cells, biological scaffolds and their combination were reviewed. Results:The problems of seed cells are carcinogenicity, immune rejection, ethics, low survival rate and differentiation rate after transplantation, and current researches focus on exploring new cell types, gene transfection, cell co-transplantation and pretreatment before transplantation. The problems of biological scaffold are that a single material selection cannot meet different needs, and the traditional technology cannot simulate the internal structure of spinal cord well. There were more researches focusing on new composite materials and new technology. The core problem of their combination is that the effects of different cell and scaffold combinations are different, and the current researches are mostly devoted to the continuous exploration of suitable composite mode, and try to introduce biological agents and other factors. Conclusion:Spinal cord tissue engineering has the potential to completely change the therapeutic pathway of spinal cord injury. Current experimental researches mainly base on solving the problems of seed cells and biological scaffolds of spinal cord tissue engineering, and further explore the appropriate composite mode of seed cells and biological scaffolds, so as to provide more basic evidence for its clinical application.

Research progress indental pulp tissue engineering scaffolds / 国际生物医学工程杂志

Pulp necrosis can cause increased tooth fragility and easy fracture, and hinder the sustainable development of young permanent teeth. Therefore, pulp regeneration therapy has important clinical significance. However, due to the complicated and varied anatomical structure of the pulp tissue, and various components such as nerves and blood vessels, there are many challenges in dental pulp regeneration strategy. In this paper, the recent research progress in the application of dental pulp tissue construction and transplantation by tissue engineering method was reviewed, and the selection of suitable scaffold materials and the construction of dental pulp tissue were discussed. The functional characteristics of scaffold materials were described,such as sodium alginate, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, collagen, gelatin, fibrous protein, silk fibroin, peptides and self-assembled peptides, polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid and their copolymers. In addition, the functions and characteristics of these materials were briefly introduced, as well as the functional modification with growth factors and other biological matrix extract involvement, and functional improvement of the composite scaffolds with complementary effects.Combined with the requirements of clinical operability, the composition design and functional characteristics of the injectable hydrogel scaffolds consisted of hydrophilic composite materials and/or modified with hydrophilic groups were also discussed.This review paper would be useful in providing some reference for the future research and exploration of dental pulp regeneration.