Journal Of Functional Biomaterials[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Correction: Kuc et al. Tension-Dominant Orthodontic Loading and Buccal Periodontal Phenotype Preservation: An Integrative Mechanobiological Model Supported by FEM and a Proof-of-Concept CBCT. 2026, , 47.
Kuc AE, Kotuła J, Sybilski K … +8 more , Saternus S, Małachowski J, Kuc N, Hajduk G, Lis J, Kawala B, Sarul M, Sulewska M
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42346701 · Full text
In the original publication [...].
In the original publication [...].
The Shear Bond Strength Between Calcium Silicate-Based Biomaterials and Glass Ionomer Restorative Materials: An In Vitro Comparative Study.
Salık M, Bakır EP
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346700 · Full text
The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the shear bond strengths between different calcium silicate-based biomaterials and glass ionomer-based restorative materials. In this in vitro study, a total of 96 acr...
The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the shear bond strengths between different calcium silicate-based biomaterials and glass ionomer-based restorative materials. In this in vitro study, a total of 96 acrylic blocks were prepared, each containing a standardized cylindrical cavity measuring 4 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth. Four different calcium silicate-based biomaterials (ProRoot MTA, Biodentine, TheraCal LC, and MTA BioRep) were placed into the cavities according to the manufacturers' instructions. Three different glass ionomer restorative materials (Fuji II LC, Equia Forte HT, and Riva Self Cure) were then applied onto the biomaterial surfaces using molds measuring 2 mm in diameter and 2 mm in height, resulting in 12 experimental groups (n = 8). After storage at 37 °C for 24 h, the shear bond strengths were measured using a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests with Bonferroni correction ( < 0.05). The highest bond strength was observed in the TheraCal LC-Fuji II LC combination, whereas the lowest value was obtained in the MTA BioRep-Equia Forte HT group. Both the type of biomaterial and type of glass ionomer cement had a statistically significant effect on the bond strength ( < 0.05). The combination of calcium silicate-based biomaterial and glass ionomer-based restorative material influenced the early shear bond strength. These findings suggest that material selection may play an important role in early bonding behavior at the biomaterial-restorative material interface.
Zinc-Doped Calcium Phosphate Nanoagonists Amplifies cGAS-STING Signaling for Boosting Pyroptosis-Induced Cancer Immunotherapy.
Yang B, Li X, Zhang M … +6 more , Guo S, Wang X, Chen P, Yu D, Qi C, Cai K
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346699 · Full text
The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy represents a promising approach that leverages their complementary benefits. However, the side effects resulting from off-target effects and the low efficiency of immune...
The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy represents a promising approach that leverages their complementary benefits. However, the side effects resulting from off-target effects and the low efficiency of immune activation remain a significant concern. Herein, we developed a zinc-doped calcium phosphate (ZCP) nanocarrier for the delivery of the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOX). By further encapsulating whole proteins from 4T1 breast cancer cells, we constructed a novel nanodrug delivery system named ZCPDM. This system enables specific targeting of tumor cells and undergoes intracellular degradation to release DOX, Zn, and Ca. As a chemotherapeutic agent, DOX induces apoptosis while significantly elevating intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby enhancing cytotoxicity. This leads to DNA damage and the release of chromosomal fragments. These DNA fragments, together with Zn, activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and trigger pyroptosis, which promotes more efficient recognition and clearance of tumor cells by the immune system. Through these dual mechanisms, ZCPDM effectively combines chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The anti-tumor efficacy and underlying mechanisms were validated at the cellular level. Furthermore, studies in tumor-bearing mice demonstrated its robust anti-tumor performance and ability to suppress tumor recurrence, along with good biosafety. This targeted drug delivery system achieves safe and synergistic chemo-immunotherapy through homologous targeting-mediated pyroptosis and activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, offering a novel and promising strategy for cancer treatment.
Sustained Decrease in Oxygen Saturation in Human Fibular Fractures Monitored with Laser-Doppler and White-Light Spectroscopy: A Longitudinal Observational Pilot Study.
Kawamura T, Fensel-Merz S, Orth M … +3 more , Liodakis E, Yanasigawa Y, Ganse B
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346698 · Full text
Noninvasive light-based measurements have recently been suggested for monitoring fracture healing and for the development of smart implants. The aim of this study was to collect the first exploratory longitudinal data f...
Noninvasive light-based measurements have recently been suggested for monitoring fracture healing and for the development of smart implants. The aim of this study was to collect the first exploratory longitudinal data from human distal fibular fractures. In this prospective observational pilot study, blood flow, oxygen saturation, and relative hemoglobin were noninvasively measured by using combined laser Doppler and white-light spectroscopy at depths of 3 mm and 10 mm. In patients with fibular fractures, measurements were performed at 1-3 days, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after surgery. Patients with fibular nonunion and healthy control participants underwent a single measurement. Fourteen longitudinal fracture patients, a nonunion patient, and 42 controls were included. In the longitudinal fracture group, oxygen saturation at a depth of 10 mm significantly decreased from baseline to 2 weeks ( < 0.001) and remained at a low plateau significantly below healthy control levels throughout the 6-month period. Blood flow and relative hemoglobin levels did not longitudinally change but remained significantly elevated compared with controls ( < 0.001). A single nonunion case demonstrated a markedly low oxygen saturation value (8.3%) combined with increased blood flow. Fibular fractures treated with plate fixation exhibit a prolonged low-oxygen saturation plateau, in contrast to the rapid recovery observed in tibial shaft fractures, possibly due to differences in anatomy or healing mechanisms. The low oxygen saturation observed in the nonunion requires further investigation, as it may have prognostic potential.
Cytomorphometric and Clinical Analysis of the Effects of Azithromycin and Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Wound Healing After Surgical Removal of an Impacted Mandibular Third Molar.
Spasić M, Todorović K, Živković N … +7 more , Petrović M, Stojanović S, Todorović A, Stojković B, Jocić S, Krunić V, Stoiljković M
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346697 · Full text
Impacted mandibular third molars present a common challenge in oral surgery, often associated with postoperative complications such as delayed healing and periodontal defects; therefore, optimizing adjunctive therapies i...
Impacted mandibular third molars present a common challenge in oral surgery, often associated with postoperative complications such as delayed healing and periodontal defects; therefore, optimizing adjunctive therapies is clinically important. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and preoperative azithromycin in modulating inflammation and enhancing wound healing following surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. In this prospective clinical study, healthy subjects aged 18-50 years were randomly assigned to three groups: a control group receiving standard postoperative amoxicillin therapy, a PRF group receiving PRF with standard therapy, and a PRF-plus-azithromycin group receiving PRF, standard therapy, and a single preoperative dose of azithromycin. Clinical parameters were assessed and cytomorphometric analysis was performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Clinical parameters generally improved over time in all groups ( < 0.001). Differences between groups were observed for interincisal distance, Landry Index, and pain scores, with a trend toward more favorable outcomes in the combined-therapy group. Cytomorphometric analysis revealed cellular alterations in the control group, relative stability in the PRF group, and intermediate changes in the combined-therapy group. Within the limitations of this study, the combination of PRF and preoperative azithromycin showed potential benefits in several postoperative outcomes. However, given the study design and sample characteristics, these findings should be considered preliminary and require confirmation in larger prospective studies before definitive clinical recommendations can be made.
Vein Graft Preservation During Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: Operative Techniques, Biomaterials and Advances from Tissue Engineering.
Ferraresi B, Nenna A, Jawabra M … +9 more , Corrado D, Barberi F, Dominici C, Casali G, Barbieri L, Tumminello G, Carugo S, Chello M, Lusini M
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346696 · Full text
The failure of saphenous vein grafts following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains a significant issue, as it limits the durability of vein-based surgical revascularisation compared to arterial conduits. Venou...
The failure of saphenous vein grafts following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains a significant issue, as it limits the durability of vein-based surgical revascularisation compared to arterial conduits. Venous graft disease is a dynamic process that begins early in the perioperative period as a consequence of harvesting trauma, ex vivo preservation, and the sudden exposure of the conduit to the arterial haemodynamic environment. This narrative review summarises the available evidence on local graft protection strategies, focusing on intraoperative and perioperative approaches aimed at preserving endothelial integrity, attenuating initial inflammation, and limiting maladaptive remodelling. Specifically, the review analyses the role of endothelium-protective preservation solutions, external support devices, biodegradable drug-eluting biomaterials, and locally targeted RNA therapies. Preclinical and early clinical evidence suggests that local graft protection is biologically plausible and may reduce intimal hyperplasia, luminal irregularity and adverse graft remodelling. However, its impact on long-term clinical outcomes remains uncertain. An integrated approach combining harvest optimisation, conduit preservation, mechanical support, and local delivery of drugs or regulatory molecules may represent a promising framework for improving vein graft biology; however, its ability to translate into durable patency gains and improved clinical outcomes after CABG requires further clinical validation.
Radiographic Healing Outcomes of Apical Periodontitis Following Endodontic Therapy: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study in a Romanian Cohort.
Zahiu SG, Riviș M, Roi C … +2 more , Roi A, Frățilă O
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346695 · Full text
Apical periodontitis is a common inflammatory oral condition and a major cause of endodontic treatment need. The present retrospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the frequency, distribution, and radiographic healin...
Apical periodontitis is a common inflammatory oral condition and a major cause of endodontic treatment need. The present retrospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the frequency, distribution, and radiographic healing of teeth diagnosed with apical periodontitis following primary endodontic treatment or nonsurgical retreatment within a specific patient cohort. Consecutive patients presenting for endodontic treatment at the study clinic between 2020 and 2021 were screened for inclusion. Eligible cases were those in which patients provided written informed consent, presented with periapical inflammatory pathology, and underwent conservative endodontic treatment. Exclusion criteria were incomplete data, non-functional or non-restorable teeth, third molars, pregnancy, probing depth ≥ 4 mm, radiographic bone loss, pathologic tooth mobility due to attachment loss, periodontal involvement of the lesion, and primary dentition. A total of 277 teeth, all diagnosed with apical periodontitis at baseline, were included. Some patients contributed more than one tooth. All treatments were performed by a single operator according to a standardized clinical protocol, including uniform diagnostic criteria, chemo-mechanical preparation, irrigation regimen, obturation technique, and radiographic follow-up at 12 and 24 months. Periapical healing was assessed radiographically using the Periapical Index (PAI). Within this cohort, elderly patients significantly represented the largest proportion of those treated ( < 0.001). Maxillary teeth also comprised a significantly higher proportion of cases than mandibular teeth (55.2% vs. 44.8%). The mean initial PAI score was 3.37 ± 0.9 points, with a median of 3 points, and the final score was 1.31 ± 0.93 points, with a median of 1 point. Radiographic healing was observed in 56.68% of cases at 12 months and in 84.84% of cases at 24 months. Primary endodontic treatment and nonsurgical retreatment of teeth with apical periodontitis in this selected patient population were associated with substantial radiographic improvement over a 24-month follow-up period. These findings support the value of standardized endodontic management and longitudinal radiographic monitoring.
Is Fibrin a Suitable Matrix for Small-Diameter Bioartificial Vascular Grafts? An In Vitro Short-Term Hemocompatibility Study.
Glomb C, Stadler P, Klingenberg M … +4 more , Pflaum M, Ruhparwar A, Wilhelmi M, Helms F
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346694 · Full text
The generation of durable and hemocompatible small-diameter vascular grafts remains a major challenge in current vascular tissue engineering, as clinically available synthetic grafts are lacking hemocompatibility resulti...
The generation of durable and hemocompatible small-diameter vascular grafts remains a major challenge in current vascular tissue engineering, as clinically available synthetic grafts are lacking hemocompatibility resulting in limited long-term patency. In recent years, fibrin has emerged as a promising scaffold material for various tissue engineering approaches due to its autologous nature, controllable fabrication, and mechanical properties. However, although pivotal for the translation into clinical application, systematic evaluation of hemocompatibility in fibrin-based small-caliber grafts is still missing. Here, the hemocompatibility of small-diameter fibrin-based grafts with and without heparin coating was compared to the current gold standard for prosthetic small-diameter vessel replacement in the form of heparin-coated ePTFE grafts using the Chandler Loop circulation model with human whole blood. Cell adhesion of thrombocytes, erythrocytes, and leucocytes was compared. Platelet activation, activation of the complement system, and plasmatic coagulation activity were assessed by ELISA analyses for P-Selectin, complement sC5b-9, and thrombin-antithrombin complex, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to evaluate interactions and thrombocyte activation on the luminal graft surfaces. The short-term hemocompatibility of the fibrin-based grafts with respect to the cell-count, activation of the coagulation pathways, and thrombocyte activation was comparable to the heparin-coated synthetic grafts even without heparin coating of the bioartificial grafts. The findings of this early-stage analysis support fibrin as a promising scaffold material for small-diameter vascular tissue engineering.
Comparative Effects of Experimental Bioactive Glasses on Dentin Permeability and Tubule Occlusion In Vitro.
Destro JM, Reis BO, Chrisostomo DA … +9 more , Strazzi-Sahyon HB, Queiroz ME, Benetti F, Fagundes TC, Sousa MT, Zanotto ED, Cintra LTA, Briso ALF, Dos Santos PH
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346693 · Full text
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of experimental bioactive glass solutions on dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance in vitro. Dentin blocks of 50 bovine incisors were divided into 5 groups according to th...
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of experimental bioactive glass solutions on dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance in vitro. Dentin blocks of 50 bovine incisors were divided into 5 groups according to the desensitizing agent used ( = 10): Group 1-control (no treatment); Group 2-Bioglass 45S5; Group 3-Bioglass F18; Group 4-Biosilicate gel; Group 5-Desensibilize Nano P (FGM). Treatments were applied for 20 min daily over 15 days. The specimens were subjected to a citric acid challenge to simulate oral demineralizing conditions. Dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance were evaluated before and after the desensitizing procedures and the acidic challenge. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provided qualitative dentin surface analysis. Dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance data were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's test ( = 0.05). The control group showed the highest dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance values after the acid challenge ( < 0.05). After product application, Bioglass 45S5 and Bioglass F18 showed the lowest dentinal fluid flow (0.463 ± 0.124 Lp and 0.549 ± 0.239 Lp, respectively) and hydraulic conductance values (0.025 ± 0.007 Lp and 0.026 ± 0.007 Lp, respectively), differing significantly from Biosilicate Gel and Desensibilize Nano P ( < 0.0001). Biosilicate Gel and Desensibilize Nano P showed higher dentinal fluid flow (0.864 ± 0.180 Lp and 0.840 ± 0.173 Lp, respectively) and hydraulic conductance values (0.047 ± 0.010 Lp and 0.046 ± 0.009 Lp, respectively) after application ( < 0.0001). After the acid challenge, no significant differences were observed among the groups ( > 0.05), although all experimental groups showed numerically lower values than the control group. Bioactive glass-based desensitizing agents reduced dentinal fluid flow and hydraulic conductance, suggesting dentinal tubule occlusion. Bioglass 45S5 and Bioglass F18 showed the most stable performance, maintaining lower values even after the acid challenge, suggesting potential for the management of dentin hypersensitivity.
Vitreous Substitutes in Vitreoretinal Surgery: From Native Vitreous Physiology to Bioengineered Experimental Replacements.
Avitabile A, Cannizzaro L, Rusciano D
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346692 · Full text
The vitreous body is not only a transparent filling material of the posterior segment; it is a soft, hydrated, and biologically active matrix that supports structural, optical, and biochemical homeostasis. Vitrectomy the...
The vitreous body is not only a transparent filling material of the posterior segment; it is a soft, hydrated, and biologically active matrix that supports structural, optical, and biochemical homeostasis. Vitrectomy therefore leaves a functional deficit that current substitutes only partly address. Intraocular gases, silicone oils, and perfluorocarbon liquids remain essential surgical tools, but they mainly provide mechanical tamponade and do not reproduce native viscoelasticity, diffusion control, or protection against oxidative and inflammatory stress. This review considers vitreous replacement as a functional biomaterials challenge. We discuss native vitreous physiology, the limitations of present tamponade agents, and emerging bioengineered substitutes designed to create a more physiological intravitreal environment. Particular attention is given to hydrogel and polymer-based systems, especially hyaluronic acid-based and in situ crosslinked platforms, which are being developed to combine optical clarity, injectability, soft mechanical support, controlled degradation, and favorable tissue interaction. We also emphasize the need for standardized preclinical testing of swelling, enzymatic stability, drug diffusion, rheology, and long-term biocompatibility. Although next-generation materials may move the field beyond passive space filling, manufacturing reproducibility, regulatory validation, chronic safety, and cautious early-phase trials remain major translational barriers.
Flexural Strength and Clinical Classification of Different Layers in 4/5Y-PSZ Zirconia Materials.
Lohbauer U, Schwarz M, Belli R
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346691 · Full text
Multilayer 4Y/5Y-PSZ zirconia materials have been developed to combine strength and translucency in monolithic "all-in-one" dental restorations. This study evaluated the flexural strength of different layers (incisal, tr...
Multilayer 4Y/5Y-PSZ zirconia materials have been developed to combine strength and translucency in monolithic "all-in-one" dental restorations. This study evaluated the flexural strength of different layers (incisal, transition, and dentin) in four commercially available multilayer zirconia systems using three-point bending tests in accordance with ISO 6872. A total of 360 CAD/CAM-fabricated bar-shaped specimens were prepared from the materials CE (Cercon yo ML, DentsplySirona), KA (Katana YML, Kuraray Noritake), PZ (3D ProZir, Aidite), PE (IPS e.max ZirCAD Prime esthetic), and assigned to layer-specific groups based on their position within the discs. After sintering and standardized surface finishing, specimens were tested under three-point bending conditions. Fracture strength was calculated and statistically analysed. Microstructural and fractographic analyses were performed to assess grain structure and to identify fracture origins. The results demonstrated significant differences in flexural strength both among materials and between layers. In general, dentin layers exhibited the highest strength, reaching mean values up to 1143 MPa, while incisal layers showed significantly lower values, with minima around 572 MPa. Only one material (CE) maintained flexural strength above the ISO threshold of 800 MPa across all layers, qualifying for unrestricted (class 5) clinical use. Other materials showed limitations, particularly in the more translucent incisal regions (KA, PE). One material fell below the ISO threshold (PZ). Weibull moduli revealed differences in reliability, with moduli ranging from 4.7 to 16.5. Fractographic evaluation identified typical fracture patterns such as surface grinding defects and internal porosity, but no abnormal fracture origins. The strength gradient corresponds to microstructural differences, particularly grain size and phase composition, influenced by yttria content. Increased translucency in incisal layers is associated with reduced mechanical performance. These findings emphasize that, despite aesthetic advantages, layer-dependent strength variations must be considered when selecting multilayer zirconia for clinical applications, especially in long-span restorations.
Effect of Fibronectin and Laminin on Compaction of Myoblast-Seeded Collagen Hydrogels.
Sicherer ST, Guliani J, Raju SA … +5 more , Parikh Y, Martin C, Pridmore J, Coombs K, Grasman JM
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346690 · Full text
The extracellular matrix (ECM) regulates skeletal muscle development through biochemical signaling and mechanical interactions. While Matrigel supplementation is commonly used to enhance engineered muscle formation, the...
The extracellular matrix (ECM) regulates skeletal muscle development through biochemical signaling and mechanical interactions. While Matrigel supplementation is commonly used to enhance engineered muscle formation, the contribution of specific ECM proteins remain incompletely defined in 3D systems. Here, we evaluated the effects of laminin and fibronectin supplementation on myogenic differentiation in collagen type I hydrogels and assessed their influence on passive tissue compaction and alignment in 3D constructs. Two-dimensional collagen hydrogels supplemented with increasing concentrations (0-100 µg/mL) of laminin or fibronectin were screened to maximize the myoblast fusion index. These concentrations were incorporated into 3D myocyte-seeded hydrogels cultured between flexible posts to quantify passive compaction forces via cantilever mechanics. Fibronectin supplementation (10 µg/mL) resulted in significantly greater early post displacement and sustained passive compaction compared to laminin-supplemented and unsupplemented controls. Constructs cultured under tension between posts exhibited enhanced alignment, with fibronectin further increasing the proportion of fibers oriented within 0-20° of the tension axis. Together, these findings demonstrate that fibronectin enhances early passive compaction dynamics and tension-mediated alignment in collagen-based skeletal muscle constructs. These results provide insight into how specific ECM components influence 3D tissue organization and may inform the design of engineered muscle models for regenerative applications.
Fracture Resistance of 3D-Printed Partial and Conventional Veneers.
Alshabib A, Rojas-Rueda S, Alotaibi S … +4 more , Jurado CA, Antal MA, Morrow BR, Garcia-Godoy F
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346689 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of 3D-printed partial veneers with finish lines at three different locations and conventional full veneers with finish li...
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of 3D-printed partial veneers with finish lines at three different locations and conventional full veneers with finish lines at the gingival level. All restorations were digitally designed and 3D printed using a nanoceramic filled resin specifically developed for veneer restorations. METHODS: Four maxillary right central incisor typodont teeth were prepared for labial veneers with finish lines at different locations: incisal third (InT), middle portion of the middle third (MmT), lower portion of the middle third (LmT), and conventional veneer with the finish line at the gingival level (CoV). Each preparation was scanned, and 15 casts were 3D printed from each scan. A total of 60 3D-printed veneers were fabricated (n = 15 per group) using a nanoceramic-filled resin designed for veneer restorations. The restorations were cemented to the 3D-printed dies using the manufacturer's adhesive and resin cement. The specimens were artificially aged with 10,000 thermal cycles between 5 °C and 55 °C, with a dwell time of 30 s, and then loaded to failure using a universal testing machine. Fracture load values were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the Tukey honestly significant difference post hoc test (α = 0.05). In addition, fracture patterns were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy images for descriptive purposes. RESULTS: The mean fracture resistance of the 3D-printed partial and conventional labial veneers differed significantly depending on restoration design ( < 0.05). Among the partial veneers, the LmT group showed the highest fracture resistance (279.86 N), followed by the MmT group (266.92 N), while the InT group showed the lowest value (179.22 N). The conventional veneer group (CoV) demonstrated higher fracture resistance (404.07 N) than all partial veneer groups. CONCLUSIONS: The fracture resistance of 3D-printed partial and conventional labial veneers fabricated with nanoceramic-filled resins differed according to finish line location. Conventional veneers demonstrated higher fracture resistance than all partial veneer designs. The smallest partial veneer, with the margin located in the incisal third, showed lower fracture resistance than the partial veneer designs with finish lines in the middle third.
Mechanical Anisotropy and Fatigue Behavior of 3D-Printed Dentures: A Comparison with CAD/CAM Milled Bases After Thermomechanical Aging.
Alkhodary MA, Elmoazen R, Alresheedi BA … +3 more , Alenezi A, Alharethi N, Alrethia R
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346688 · Full text
To investigate the effect of print orientation (0°, 45°, and 90°) and artificial aging on flexural strength and fatigue resistance of 3D-printed denture bases compared to CAD/CAM milled controls, we fabricated 320 maxill...
To investigate the effect of print orientation (0°, 45°, and 90°) and artificial aging on flexural strength and fatigue resistance of 3D-printed denture bases compared to CAD/CAM milled controls, we fabricated 320 maxillary complete dentures, divided into 8 groups based on the fabrication method: horizontal, oblique, and vertical printing, alongside milled controls. Half of the specimens in each group were pre-conditioned via thermocycling and 240,000 cycles of chewing simulation. All specimens underwent static flexural strength testing and cyclic fatigue testing, followed by SEM fractography. The CAD/CAM milled bases demonstrated the highest mechanical durability, with non-aged specimens peaking at 149.43 ± 5.35 MPa. The horizontally 3D-printed non-aged specimens yielded the highest flexural strength (101.14 ± 4.80 MPa), while vertically printed aged specimens recorded the lowest (70.35 ± 8.18 MPa). Artificial aging degraded flexural strength uniformly across all orientations. Conversely, cyclic loading disproportionately devastated the older people's vertical group, resulting in a 70% fracture rate. Fractography corroborated these findings, revealing severe interlaminar delamination in vertical builds, contrasting with cohesive, trans-layer fractures in horizontal prints. In conclusion, Horizontal orientation provided improved structural durability; however, CAD/CAM milled dentures remain superior and are recommended for long-term clinical applications.
Structural Optimization and Finite Element Analysis of Variable-Stiffness Biodegradable Vascular Stents.
Zhang H, Chen S, Du T … +3 more , Zhang Y, Wu L, Qiao A
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346687 · Full text
Premature structural failure of biodegradable vascular stents (BVSs) induced by stress corrosion cracking (SCC) remains a critical challenge. Heterogeneous plaques compress the stent, leading to inadequate expansion and...
Premature structural failure of biodegradable vascular stents (BVSs) induced by stress corrosion cracking (SCC) remains a critical challenge. Heterogeneous plaques compress the stent, leading to inadequate expansion and inducing stress concentration that exacerbates SCC. This study proposes variable-stiffness stents to improve radial support and mitigate non-uniform degradation. The stents were designed with shortened axial ring segments and selective strut widening at the stenotic regions for targeted stiffness enhancement. They were virtually deployed in arteries with non-calcified and calcified plaques to evaluate immediate performance, while long-term service behavior was assessed via degradation simulation under combined electrochemical corrosion and SCC effects. The results show that variable-stiffness stents exhibited comparable residual stenosis to uniform-stiffness stents with identical local structures at plaque regions. Dual-stiffness designs yielded a smoother luminal profile than uniform-stiffness counterparts, and gradient-stiffness designs achieved further improvements. Local strut widening extended full recoil time, with a more marked effect on high-stiffness segments, by 52.6% and 41.2% in non-calcified and calcified plaques, while simultaneously increasing volume loss to mitigate non-uniform degradation. In addition, widened gradient-stiffness designs further prolonged the stable support time by 9.7%. These findings show variable-stiffness stents with widened gradient-stiffness design exhibit a more favorable immediate and long-term performance.
Electroactive Biomaterials for Cardiovascular Tissue Engineering: Mechanisms, Design Strategies, and Therapeutic Applications.
Tong JM, Hao D
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346686 · Full text
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. Despite substantial advances in conventional biomaterials, their limited ab...
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. Despite substantial advances in conventional biomaterials, their limited ability to support functional integration and dynamically interact with the biological microenvironment continues to hinder therapeutic outcomes. Native cardiovascular tissues rely on tightly regulated bioelectrical signaling to coordinate cellular communication, tissue homeostasis, and functional repair. Consequently, recreating these bioelectrical cues has emerged as a key design principle in cardiovascular tissue engineering. Electroactive biomaterials have gained increasing attention as a promising platform to address this challenge by enabling electrical modulation of cellular behavior and tissue function. In this review, we summarize the intrinsic bioelectrical properties of cardiovascular tissues and discuss the roles of electrical stimulation in regulating disease-relevant cellular responses. We further highlight recent advances in the development of conductive, piezoelectric, and other electroactive biomaterials for cardiovascular tissue engineering applications. Finally, we critically discuss the major challenges and future opportunities in the field, including tissue-specific responses, stimulation parameter optimization, long-term safety, and clinical translation. Collectively, electroactive biomaterials represent a promising and rapidly evolving frontier for the development of dynamic, responsive, and next-generation therapies for cardiovascular diseases.
Surface Modification of Gutta-Percha for the Use of Intact MTA as a Root Canal Sealer.
Sarilaksmi N, Nagano-Takebe F, Takahashi M … +3 more , Kado T, Endo K, Nezu T
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346685 · Full text
This study aimed to use intact mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as a root canal sealer by hydrophilizing the gutta-percha (GP) surface. The GP specimens were treated with atmospheric air plasma, cetylpyridinium chloride...
This study aimed to use intact mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as a root canal sealer by hydrophilizing the gutta-percha (GP) surface. The GP specimens were treated with atmospheric air plasma, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), or a combination of both. The wettability and surface chemical properties were evaluated using contact angle measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The physicochemical properties of MTA mixed with water or 100 mM of CPC solution were evaluated using setting time, flowability, compressive strength, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. Sealing ability was assessed by evaluating the dye penetration in obturated single-rooted teeth. Combined plasma and CPC treatment significantly decreased the contact angle of GP compared to that of the untreated group ( < 0.05) and showed the least hydrophobic recovery after 8 weeks. The XPS analysis confirmed the adsorption of CPC onto the GP surface. The XRD and compressive strength results indicated that the CPC did not interfere with the setting reaction of intact MTA, although the setting time was prolonged ( < 0.05). Dye penetration was significantly reduced in the plasma- and CPC-treated GP groups compared to the untreated GP group ( < 0.05), with a sealing ability comparable to that of the zinc oxide-based sealer.
Magnesium-Based Membrane for Alveolar Ridge Regeneration-A Scoping Review.
Gabrić D, Reiser Y, Pelivan I … +2 more , Smojver I, Marković L
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346684 · Full text
Magnesium-based membranes are promising biomaterials for guided bone regeneration due to their unique properties of mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and controlled biodegradation. This scoping review aimed to map a...
Magnesium-based membranes are promising biomaterials for guided bone regeneration due to their unique properties of mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and controlled biodegradation. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesize the available evidence regarding the use of magnesium-based membranes and fixation screws in alveolar ridge regeneration and guided bone regeneration procedures. Relevant studies were identified through a literature search conducted from November 2025 to May 2026, using several databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. Thirty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria, including in vitro studies, preclinical animal studies, clinical case reports and case series, and narrative or systematic reviews. In vitro studies demonstrated cytocompatibility and fibroblast adhesion, while moderate magnesium ion concentrations increased markers of osteogenic differentiation. Preclinical animal studies reported controlled degradation, biocompatible tissue responses, maintenance of barrier function during early healing, and findings suggesting potential osteogenic stimulation. Clinical evidence, limited to case reports and small case series, described the use of magnesium membranes in horizontal and vertical ridge augmentation, sinus lift procedures, immediate dentoalveolar regeneration, periodontal defects, and cystic lesions, with generally uneventful healing outcomes and preserved bone volume. Reported complications were mainly minor and included transient soft tissue reactions, membrane exposure, and localized gas cavity formation. However, the available evidence remains limited to low-level studies without controlled clinical trials. Current findings are insufficient to establish clinical efficacy or superiority over conventional membranes, highlighting the need for larger prospective controlled studies. The review's findings could help researchers advance the understanding of bone regeneration and help develop new strategies to improve and further investigate bone regeneration.
Exploiting Adiabatic Softening for Defect-Free Hot Forging of Ti-6Al-4V Femoral Stems.
Tuninetti V, Castro J, Valle R … +2 more , Garrido C, Oñate A
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346683 · Full text
Hot forging of Ti-6Al-4V is extensively utilized in the manufacture of orthopedic implants; however, the coupled influence of strain rate and temperature on ductile damage evolution during the forging of femoral stems re...
Hot forging of Ti-6Al-4V is extensively utilized in the manufacture of orthopedic implants; however, the coupled influence of strain rate and temperature on ductile damage evolution during the forging of femoral stems remains insufficiently quantified. In this study, a finite element framework is developed to analyze and optimize the hot forging process, incorporating strain rate- and temperature-dependent plasticity, as well as the Johnson-Cook damage criterion. Mesh convergence is established, and the assumption of quasi-adiabatic conditions is substantiated via Péclet number analysis. A full factorial design is implemented by varying the ram velocity (0.1-0.5 m/s) and initial billet temperature (850-950 °C) to evaluate the forging load, stress triaxiality, equivalent plastic strain, and damage accumulation. Results indicate that process kinetics govern the mechanical response: increasing the ram velocity enhances strain-rate hardening, resulting in higher peak loads, while explicitly reducing stress triaxiality and suppressing ductile damage evolution. Conversely, temperature exhibits a secondary influence within the investigated domain. Validation of the damage criterion confirms safe operating windows, identifying low-velocity forging as a high-risk condition for localized defect formation. These findings provide practical guidelines for the strain-rate-based optimization of thermomechanical processing parameters for Ti-6Al-4V femoral stems.
Long-Term Clinical and Radiographic Osseointegration Outcomes of a Highly Porous 3D-Printed Titanium Collar Compared with a Hydroxyapatite-Coated Collar in Megaprostheses.
Triplicane Dwarakanathan H, Green N, Haider T … +4 more , Pagkalos I, Morris G, Botchu R, Jeys LM
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346682 · Full text
This is a retrospective, single-center cohort study comparing the long-term radiographic osseointegration and aseptic loosening between a 3D-printed EPORE collar and a prior generation HA-coated collar in endoprosthetic...
This is a retrospective, single-center cohort study comparing the long-term radiographic osseointegration and aseptic loosening between a 3D-printed EPORE collar and a prior generation HA-coated collar in endoprosthetic reconstructions. Achieving stable bone integration in endoprosthetic reconstructions remains challenging, with hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated collars being the only option available in the past. Earlier studies from our center have shown reliable and accelerated osseointegration at the bone-collar interface using a novel highly porous 3D-printed EPORE collar system compared to a previously used HA-coated collar. : Twenty-eight patients who underwent an implantation of endoprostheses utilizing the novel 3D-printed EPORE collar system were case-matched to 24 patients who had previously undergone surgeries using a HA-coated collar. The mean age at surgery was 65.2 years (range: 17-95 years). Patients in the HA-coated collar group had a mean age of 63.8 years (range: 17-86 years), while those in the 3D-printed collar group had a mean age of 66.7 years (range: 32-95 years), with no statistically significant difference between groups ( = 0.876). A minimum radiological and clinical follow-up of 2 years was available in all included cases. Osseointegration was evaluated using postoperative plain radiographs in two planes based on a previously validated semi-quantitative score. When aseptic loosening was used as the primary endpoint, no failures occurred in the 3D-printed EPORE group during the study period. The overall rate of stem loosening (including both aseptic and septic causes) was 7% (2/28) in the 3D-printed group and 16% (4/24) in the HA-coated group. All cases of loosening in the 3D-printed cohort were related to septic failure. This translates into a 2-year aseptic-loosening-free survival of 100% in the 3D-printed group. When the radiographic osseointegration was analyzed as the endpoint, the rate of successful osseointegration was significantly higher in the 3D-printed group (92.9%, 26/28; 95% CI 76.5-99.1%) compared with the HA-coated group (70.8%, 17/24; 95% CI 48.9-87.4%; = 0.04). The distribution of ongrowth scores also differed significantly between groups. The highest ongrowth score (grade 4) was achieved in 82.14% of 3D-printed implants (23/28; 95% CI 63.1-93.9%), compared with 37.5% of HA-coated implants (9/24; = 0.0002). The time to achieve grade 4 ongrowth was significantly shorter in the 3D-printed cohort, with a median of 470 days (IQR 360-610), compared with 1482 days (IQR 1020-1860) in the HA-coated group ( < 0.0001). In addition, patients in the 3D-printed implant group had a significantly higher mean body mass index compared with the HA-coated group (32.51 vs. 28.36, = 0.01). : These results show that the novel highly porous 3D-printed EPORE collars reduce aseptic loosening and accelerate extracortical bridging in endoprosthetic replacements. This benefit persisted even in higher BMI or revision contexts when compared to the previously used HA-coated collars.
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