Journal Of Functional Biomaterials[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Surface Characterization and Antimicrobial Capability Evaluation of Medical-Grade Titanium Modified by Facile Immersion in the Solution of Novel Catechol-Terminated Compounds Having Cationic Quaternary Ammonium Functionality with Different Alkyl Chain Lengths.
Liu ZH, Fan NC, Cheng CH … +1 more , Lin JC
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346661 · Full text
Reducing hospital-acquired infections, especially those related to medical devices, is essential not only to improve patients' well-being but also to reduce healthcare costs. Among various antibacterial approaches, creat...
Reducing hospital-acquired infections, especially those related to medical devices, is essential not only to improve patients' well-being but also to reduce healthcare costs. Among various antibacterial approaches, creating bactericidal device surfaces has been advocated as it reduces the likelihood of antibiotic-resistant strains emerging when antibiotics are used. Functionalizing the device surface with cationic groups, such as quaternary ammonium terminal groups, has been considered an effective approach for killing microbes upon contact. Nonetheless, multiple steps, some of which may require harsh chemical reactions and toxic solvents, are generally required to attach the cationic quaternary ammonium functionalities to the surface. Inspired by the mussel's capability to bind to various substrates, various novel biomimetic cationic catechol-terminated small molecules having the quaternary ammonium functionality with different alkyl chain lengths were synthesized for the first time. These compounds were used for surface modification of medical-grade titanium using simple immersion approaches: a single-layer procedure or a two-layer approach, in which the first layer was prepared by dopamine immersion, followed by a second immersion in the compound of interest. The surface characteristics and antimicrobial capability against the Gram-negative and Gram-positive were assessed. The likely effects of the alkyl chain length and modification schemes on the surface properties and antibacterial activity are discussed and compared. The highest antimicrobial activity against was noted on the modified surfaces prepared by the two-layer approach with the cationic compound having the shortest alkyl chain, C1, at 2 mg/mL (DA_C1-2) and 8 mg/mL (DA_C1-8). The DA_C1-8 surface also exhibited the highest antimicrobial activity against . These findings indicated that the antibacterial activity of titanium can be greatly improved by selecting the appropriate compound and a proper, facile immersion procedure.
Vascularized Flaps as Living Bioreactors in Bone Tissue Engineering: From Biological Principles to Translational Strategies-A Narrative Review.
Battaglia F, Colonna MR, Cigna E … +2 more , Maruccia M, Delia G
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346660 · Full text
Large segmental bone defects remain a major challenge in reconstructive surgery, particularly in the presence of impaired vascularization. Despite advances in scaffold design and biomaterials, insufficient vascular suppl...
Large segmental bone defects remain a major challenge in reconstructive surgery, particularly in the presence of impaired vascularization. Despite advances in scaffold design and biomaterials, insufficient vascular supply continues to represent the primary limitation in bone tissue engineering, often leading to impaired osteogenesis and graft failure. This review aims to analyze the role of vascularized flaps as "living bioreactors" in bone tissue engineering, focusing on their capacity to enhance scaffold vascularization, support osteogenesis, and facilitate clinical translation. A narrative review was conducted through a structured search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using combinations of the following keywords: "bone tissue engineering", "vascularized flaps", "arteriovenous loop", and "in vivo bioreactor". Relevant preclinical and clinical studies were selected based on their contribution to vascularization strategies in scaffold-based bone regeneration, with the aim of illustrating the evolution and integration of these approaches. Vascularized flaps provide an established vascular network and a biologically active microenvironment that promote scaffold integration and tissue regeneration. Periosteal flaps demonstrate strong osteogenic potential, whereas muscle and omental flaps primarily act as vascular carriers and adaptable regenerative environments. AV loop-based strategies enable intrinsic axial vascularization, ensuring rapid and homogeneous perfusion of large constructs. Hybrid approaches, including regenerative matching axial vascularization (RMAV), integrate vascularized tissues with advanced biomaterials and show promising translational outcomes. Vascularization-driven strategies represent a paradigm shift in bone tissue engineering, moving from passive scaffold implantation to actively engineered, vascularized constructs. The integration of microsurgical techniques with advanced biomaterials offers significant potential for the development of personalized and clinically applicable bone regeneration strategies.
Micropillar Topography Regulates Morphology and Melanogenesis in Melanoma Cells.
Jeong H, Tsutsumi K, Matsunobu S … +3 more , Fukushima SI, Hung HH, Matsuda T
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346659 · Full text
Microscale physical cues at the cell-extracellular matrix adhesion interface are increasingly being recognized as important regulators of cellular behavior. B16-F10 melanoma-derived cells retain melanogenic activity, inc...
Microscale physical cues at the cell-extracellular matrix adhesion interface are increasingly being recognized as important regulators of cellular behavior. B16-F10 melanoma-derived cells retain melanogenic activity, including microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expression and inducible melanin production, and are widely used for studies of melanogenesis and pigmentation-associated cellular responses. Melanocytic cells are sensitive to the physical characteristics of the surrounding microenvironment, including adhesion-dependent mechanical cues. However, the mechanism by which physical cues derived from the adhesion interface regulate melanoma cell function remains incompletely understood. In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which defined micropatterned substrates modulate melanoma cell morphology, migration, nuclear architecture, and melanogenic activity. Polydimethylsiloxane substrates with pillar- and hole-shaped microstructures (5, 10, and 50 µm diameters and spacings; 10 µm height or depth) were fabricated and coated with fibronectin. B16-F10 melanoma cells cultured on narrow pillar patterns (5 and 10 µm) exhibited restricted cell spreading, shortened protrusions, suppressed migration, and pronounced nuclear deformation compared with flat substrates. These mechanical constraints were accompanied by significant reductions in melanin production and downregulation of melanogenesis-related genes (Mitf, Tyr, and Tyrp1). Comparable trends were observed for Matrigel-coated substrates, indicating that microscale topography exerted consistent effects on B16-F10 melanoma cell responses across the tested extracellular matrix conditions. Collectively, our results demonstrate that surface topography with narrow pillar microstructures is associated with topography-dependent changes in cell behavior and melanogenic activity, providing insights into how microscale topographic confinement influences melanoma cell morphology and melanogenic activity.
Development of a Scaffold from the Cob of L. "Choclo" to Obtain an In Vitro Bone Tissue Model.
Carbajal-Valverde R, Pérez-Tulich L, Huaccha-Cáceres F … +2 more , Travi-Antonio G, Valdivia-Silva J
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346658 · Full text
The lack of accessible in vitro 3D bone tissue models puts developing countries at a disadvantage in terms of research capacity and healthcare access. In this study, a decellularized corn cob scaffold was functionalized...
The lack of accessible in vitro 3D bone tissue models puts developing countries at a disadvantage in terms of research capacity and healthcare access. In this study, a decellularized corn cob scaffold was functionalized with GTMAC by adding quaternary ammonium groups and coating it with an alginate-gelatin hydrogel to promote mesenchymal stem cell adhesion, offering a low-cost platform for bone disease modeling. Systematic characterization of the scaffold demonstrated that decellularization reduced DNA content by over 80%. Chemical treatment affected the mechanical properties of the matrix, while the hydrogel coating and the functionalized surface of the scaffold promoted cell adhesion and morphology comparable to that observed in 3D cell cultures. MTT analysis showed a subtle reduction in metabolic signal in functionalized scaffolds, which may reflect changes in cell distribution and adhesion within the 3D matrix rather than cytotoxic effects.
Gingerol Enhances Osteogenic/Odontogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells Impaired by Oxidative Stress via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway.
Alqarni A, Hosmani J, Fadhil NAA … +4 more , AlHamid NZA, Assiri HA, Meer RM, Alshehri BY
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346657 · Full text
Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) possess significant regenerative potential; however, oxidative stress impairs their viability and osteogenic differentiation. Gingerol, the principal bioactive component of ginger, exhibits...
Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) possess significant regenerative potential; however, oxidative stress impairs their viability and osteogenic differentiation. Gingerol, the principal bioactive component of ginger, exhibits antioxidant and cytoprotective properties. This study evaluated the protective effects of gingerol on DPSCs exposed to HO-induced oxidative stress. DPSCs isolated from extracted human teeth following Institutional Review Board approval and informed consent were exposed to HO-induced oxidative stress and treated with varying concentrations of gingerol. Cell viability, migration, osteogenic activity, mineralization, intracellular ROS accumulation, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related gene expression were evaluated using MTT, scratch wound healing assay, Alizarin Red S staining, ROS staining, ELISA, and real-time PCR. Gingerol improved DPSC viability, migration, and mineralization under oxidative stress conditions. Increased ALP and BSP expression indicated enhanced osteogenic activity, while reduced ROS accumulation suggested attenuation of oxidative injury. Gingerol also modulated MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression and normalized oxidative stress-associated alterations in inflammatory and Wnt/β-catenin signaling-related gene expression. Gingerol demonstrated protective effects against oxidative stress-induced dysfunction in DPSCs and supported osteogenic differentiation. These findings suggest that gingerol may serve as a supportive bioactive candidate for regenerative dental applications; however, further mechanistic and in vivo studies are required to confirm its therapeutic potential.
Fluoride Modified Graded Restoratives Based on Induced Silica Mineralization.
Al-Kamal AK, Ahmed IZ, Abbod EA … +3 more , Resan KK, Abdulrehman MA, Flayyih AM
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346656 · Full text
Most existing dental restorative materials exhibit limited bioactivity, insufficient acid resistance, and poor mechanical compatibility with natural tooth structures. This study involved an in vitro approach in which a b...
Most existing dental restorative materials exhibit limited bioactivity, insufficient acid resistance, and poor mechanical compatibility with natural tooth structures. This study involved an in vitro approach in which a biomimetic fluoride-modified functionally gradient dental restorative material was prepared from sol-gel-derived mesoporous silica through mineralization induced via SBF solution. They synthesized bioactive restorative materials by introducing silica into a simulated body fluid (SBF) for biomimetic mineralization and generating hydroxyapatite on the silica surface. XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDS analyses confirmed the presence of hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite-like phases. The results showed statistically significant improvements ( < 0.05) in the mechanical properties. The surface hardness of the developed restorative system ranged from 214 HV for the prepared silica to 392 HV for the fluoride-modified specimens. Biomimetic mineralization and fluoride modification increased the shear bond strength to dentin substrates from 9.2 MPa to 21.4 MPa and the wear from 12.8 mg to 3.6 mg, respectively. Acid resistance evaluation also showed that the specimens with fluoride modification had the highest value of hardness retention (92.1%) after acid resistance due to the formation of chemically stable and dense apatite-rich layers on the surface. The functionally graded structure demonstrated a partial biomimetic resemblance to certain hierarchical and functional characteristics of natural dental tissues under in vitro conditions. In vitro studies on bioactivity, mechanical properties, and resistance to acidic environments of the synthesized restorative showed promising results for future dental restoration applications.
A Dusty Affair: SIRT1-S682 Modulation Orchestrates ERK-FN1-p38-NF-κB Signaling and Composite-Dependent IL-8 Responses in Gingival Keratinocytes Exposed to Dental Dust and Eluates.
Bai S, Rau SJ, Steinberg T … +2 more , Tomakidi P, Polydorou O
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346655 · Full text
Dental composite dust generated during finishing procedures or mastication may adversely affect gingival epithelia. However, the mechanistic distinction between particulate and chemical (eluate) exposures and their respe...
Dental composite dust generated during finishing procedures or mastication may adversely affect gingival epithelia. However, the mechanistic distinction between particulate and chemical (eluate) exposures and their respective signaling consequences remains insufficiently defined. Dust particles and corresponding eluates from three restorative composites, Admira Fusion, Ceram.x Spectra ST, and Filtek Supreme XTE, were evaluated under standardized high-dose in vitro exposure conditions. Human gingival keratinocytes were assessed for proliferation, adhesion, differentiation, fibronectin (FN1) remodeling, and IL-8 secretion, alongside analysis of ERK, p38, and NF-κB signaling and phosphorylation of the stress-responsive regulator SIRT1 at Ser682 (SIRT1-S682). Particulate exposure elicited more pronounced impairment of cellular adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation than eluates. Dusts derived from Ceram.x Spectra ST and Filtek Supreme XTE suppressed ERK activity, reduced FN1 abundance, and decreased nuclear SIRT1-S682, consistent with a generalized stress response. In contrast, Admira Fusion dust preserved FN1, activated ERK signaling, reduced SIRT1-S682, and induced robust IL-8 secretion. Across all materials, particulate exposure reduced nuclear SIRT1-S682 without affecting total SIRT1 levels, indicating a shared permissive stress modification. Notably, only Admira Fusion coupled this permissive state with p38 activation and sustained NF-κB p65 Ser536 phosphorylation, resulting in transcriptionally active NF-κB and elevated IL-8 production, whereas Ceram.x Spectra ST and Filtek Supreme XTE failed to activate this ERK-FN1-p38-NF-κB axis, yielding either transcriptionally inactive NF-κB or no detectable enrichment. These findings support a material-associated in vitro response pattern in which a shared SIRT1-S682 reduction is accompanied by distinct ERK/FN1, p38, NF-κB, and IL-8 readouts. SIRT1-S682 reduction alone did not define the inflammatory phenotype, because it occurred across particulate exposures, whereas IL-8 secretion was observed only under conditions that also showed p38 activation and comparatively maintained NF-κB p65 Ser536 phosphorylation. This signature arises from the convergence of a permissive SIRT1-S682 background with ERK- and p38-dependent MAPK signaling to enable NF-κB-mediated IL-8 expression, highlighting that both composite composition and particulate properties critically determine inflammatory potential and underscoring the importance of incorporating particulate fractions into cytocompatibility testing strategies.
Impact of Post-Curing Exposure Time on the Dimensional Fidelity of 3D-Printed Provisional Crowns: A Root Mean Square (RMS) Evaluation.
Anghel MA, Mitruț I, Ionescu M … +4 more , Iliescu AA, Mărășescu PC, Zaharia C, Manolea HO
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Jun · PMID 42346654 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Dimensional stability during post-curing exposure time is critical for the clinical success of 3D-printed restorations. This study evaluates how different post-curing protocols affect the accuracy of provisio...
BACKGROUND: Dimensional stability during post-curing exposure time is critical for the clinical success of 3D-printed restorations. This study evaluates how different post-curing protocols affect the accuracy of provisional crowns. METHODS: Fifty-four provisional crowns ( = 27 incisors; = 27 premolars) were fabricated using an ASIGA 3D MAX UV printer. The crowns were subjected to three post-curing durations (5, 10, and 20 min). Dimensional deviation was quantified using RMS values. RESULTS: RMS values showed a numerical, but not statistically significant, increase with longer post-curing times ( > 0.05). The 5 min protocol yielded the lowest descriptive deviations for both tooth types. CONCLUSIONS: Although no statistically significant differences were observed, shorter post-curing times were associated with lower RMS values and may help preserve dimensional accuracy. Further studies with larger subgroup sizes are needed to confirm these trends.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Socket Preservation Technique Using Allogeneic and Xenogeneic Materials: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Wróbel P, Jędzierowska M, Piecuch A … +9 more , Bąk M, Adamczyk J, Pławecki P, Mojżesz P, Wachol K, Wójcik S, Starosta M, Cholewka A, Morawiec T
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42346653 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The socket preservation technique involves filling the bone defect that occurs after a tooth is extracted with bone substitute material. This procedure helps to minimize bone resorption of the alveolar ridge...
BACKGROUND: The socket preservation technique involves filling the bone defect that occurs after a tooth is extracted with bone substitute material. This procedure helps to minimize bone resorption of the alveolar ridge following extraction. Various bone substitute biomaterials can be used for augmentation, including autogenous, allogeneic, and xenogeneic options. This study aimed to assess changes in alveolar ridge dimensions and variations in radiographic bone density in sockets grafted with two distinct biomaterials. Furthermore, bone biopsies collected from the grafted sites were subjected to histological analysis. METHODS: Forty generally healthy patients were enrolled in the study and split into four equal groups. The first and third groups underwent first or second maxillary premolar extraction and received treatment with an allogeneic material (BIOBank®, Biobank, Paris, France), while the second and fourth groups underwent first or second mandibular molar extraction and were treated with a xenogeneic material (Geistlich Bio-Oss®, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland). Following tooth extraction, the appropriate biomaterial was inserted into the socket. It was covered with a collagen membrane (Geistlich Bio-Gide®, Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhusen, Switzerland) and stabilized with sutures, which were removed seven to ten days after the procedure. Micro-CBCT scans were conducted to evaluate the dimensions of the alveolar ridge and the radiographic density of the grafted socket at 7-10 days and 6 months after the procedure. A bone trepanobiopsy was performed concurrently with implant placement six months after socket preservation. The obtained biopsy was analyzed histologically using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome staining. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in alveolar ridge height or width preservation between allogeneic and xenogeneic biomaterials. After six months of healing, sockets grafted with both materials exhibited greater radiographic bone density, with significantly greater density observed in the xenograft group. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this study suggest that the two biomaterials are comparable in their effectiveness at maintaining the dimensions of the alveolar ridge. However, the quality of the newly formed bone may differ depending on the type of biomaterial used.
From Fundamental Biointeractions to Advanced Clinical Therapies in Dentistry Using Biomaterials and Biological Components: An Editorial.
Fernandes GVO
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42346652 · Full text
The field of dental biomaterials has undergone a monumental shift, evolving from simple inert fillers to complex, bio-instructive systems capable of orchestrating tissue regeneration [...].
The field of dental biomaterials has undergone a monumental shift, evolving from simple inert fillers to complex, bio-instructive systems capable of orchestrating tissue regeneration [...].
Galla Chinensis Polyphenol-Loaded Hemostatic Granules for Rapid Hemostasis, Antibacterial Action, and Wound Healing Promotion.
Guo R, Wu Z, He Z … +2 more , Liu C, Yuan Y
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42346651 · Full text
Uncontrolled bleeding, coagulation disorders, and infection-related complications still present substantial challenges in emergency medicine and trauma care. Developing multifunctional hemostatic materials represent an e...
Uncontrolled bleeding, coagulation disorders, and infection-related complications still present substantial challenges in emergency medicine and trauma care. Developing multifunctional hemostatic materials represent an effective strategy for addressing clinical hemostasis problems. In this study, Galla chinensis polyphenols, the effective extract of Galla chinensis, were loaded onto calcium alginate-mesoporous silica granules (CMS-GC). The CMS granules were prepared by in situ liquid-phase technology and GC was loaded by impregnation methods. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that CMS-GC not only activate the endogenous coagulation pathway via GC, but also the multi-level interconnected pores of CMS granules can promote the cross-linking of GC with plasma proteins and formation of a three-dimensional network structure, which further enhances the coagulation effect and shortens the blood clotting time to less than 80 s. In rat liver and femoral artery hemorrhage models, CMS-GC significantly shortened hemostasis time and reduced blood loss, demonstrating superior hemostatic performance. Moreover, within the moist environment sustained by alginate, GC mitigates inflammatory responses via its antibacterial and free-radical clearance properties, and synergistically facilitates wound healing. This CMS-GC multifunctional granule provides an efficient new strategy for traumatic bleeding and subsequent repair.
Optimal Selection of Biodegradable Polymer Composites for Load-Bearing Bone Tissue Engineering: A Hybrid Fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS Framework with Sensitivity-Based Robustness Analysis.
Hamidat L, Uzun Ozsahin D, Uzun B
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188425 · Full text
The development of biodegradable scaffolds for load-bearing bone tissue engineering (BTE) presents a fundamental multi-criteria optimization challenge, requiring a simultaneous balance among mechanical performance, biolo...
The development of biodegradable scaffolds for load-bearing bone tissue engineering (BTE) presents a fundamental multi-criteria optimization challenge, requiring a simultaneous balance among mechanical performance, biological integration, and degradation kinetics. These criteria are inherently conflicting: composite formulations with the highest compressive strength frequently exhibit suboptimal porosity, while those with superior osteoconductivity often lack sufficient load-bearing capacity. To address this challenge rigorously, this study establishes a hybrid Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process-Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (Fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS) framework to evaluate and rank five clinically relevant biodegradable polymer-ceramic composite candidates: PLA/Hydroxyapatite (PLA/HA), PCL/Hydroxyapatite (PCL/HA), PLGA/Bioactive Glass (PLGA/BG), PLA/Carbon Nanotubes (PLA/CNT), and PLA/Magnesium (PLA/Mg). Quantitative property data were systematically extracted from ten peer-reviewed experimental studies published between 2021 and 2025, and converted into Triangular Fuzzy Numbers (TFNs) to explicitly model inter-study variability arising from differences in fabrication methods, filler loading, and testing conditions. Fuzzy AHP analysis identified Compressive Strength (w = 25.2%) and Cell Viability (w = 21.5%) as the dominant decision criteria for load-bearing cortical bone repair. The Fuzzy TOPSIS ranking identified PLA/HA as the optimal composite candidate (Closeness Coefficient, CCᵢ = 0.677), demonstrating the superior multi-criteria balance required for cortical bone repair applications. Although PLA/CNT achieved the highest mechanical strength, it was outranked due to lower osteoconductivity and elevated cytotoxicity uncertainty at high nanotube concentrations (CCᵢ = 0.544). Sensitivity analysis across five distinct weighting scenarios confirmed the robustness of PLA/HA as the primary candidate. These findings provide a validated, replicable computational blueprint for evidence-based scaffold material selection, with direct implications for reducing the burden of costly trial-and-error experimentation in BTE research.
Numerical Simulation of Bone Defect Repair Using a Triply Periodic Minimal Surface Scaffold.
Chen Z, Chen H, Qu C
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188424 · Full text
Polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds with triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures have become ideal scaffolds in the field of bone defect repair due to their good designability, connectivity, biocompatibility, and d...
Polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds with triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structures have become ideal scaffolds in the field of bone defect repair due to their good designability, connectivity, biocompatibility, and degradability. However, it is currently difficult to obtain the scaffold degradation rate and osteogenic efficacy from in vivo experiments, making it challenging to provide recommendations for scaffold design. In this study, an algorithm to construct a TPMS scaffold-interfacial layer-tissue three-phase composite model was developed using polylactic acid hydrolysis and bone remodeling as the governing equations to simulate scaffold degradation and tissue osteogenesis behavior under an external mechanical stimulus. This method is based on a numerical calculation framework that can more closely simulate the in vivo environment, characterizing the changes in the overall macroscopic mechanical properties of tissue under the influence of scaffold degradation and tissue osteogenesis. The results confirmed the accelerating effect of mechanical stimulation on scaffold degradation and its promoting effect on new bone formation. Under 10% compressive loading, the Schwarz P representative volume element (RVE) lost 33% of its apparent modulus within initial days, while the lidinoid RVE, despite showing a much higher initial modulus, dropped to only 20% of its initial value over the same period. In addition, the mechanical performance of the fused TPMS RVE was not simply linear, even though the surface equations are combined linearly. These results provide a new method for pre-designing scaffold structures based on numerical simulation results using the finite element simulation.
Structural Behavior Analysis of a Bone-Scaffold System According to the Elastic Modulus of Bone Cement and Pore Size in the Proximal Femur.
Lee HK, Choi JW, Kim JJ
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188423 · Full text
Bone scaffolds are porous artificial structures that replace damaged bone tissue and promote bone regeneration. In clinical settings, bone cement is used to provide initial fixation stability between the bone scaffold an...
Bone scaffolds are porous artificial structures that replace damaged bone tissue and promote bone regeneration. In clinical settings, bone cement is used to provide initial fixation stability between the bone scaffold and surrounding bone tissue. To analyze the performance of bone scaffolds more accurately, the cement mantle should be considered. This study considers the cement mantle between the bone scaffold and surrounding bone tissue and the structural behavior according to variations in the elastic modulus of the cement mantle and the pore size of the bone scaffold. The results showed that the cement mantle energy ratio increased with increasing pore size, particularly in the femoral head and intertrochanteric region. In the femoral head with a pore size of 1.50 mm, increasing the cement mantle elastic modulus from 7 to 24 GPa reduced the mean strain energy within the bone scaffold from 3.79 μJ to 2.51 μJ, corresponding to a decrease of approximately 33.8%. These findings suggest that as cement mantle stiffness increases, external loads may not be sufficiently transferred to the bone scaffold interior, and the proportion of the load borne by the cement mantle may increase. In the femoral neck, the cement mantle energy ratio also increased with increasing pore size; however, the magnitude of this change was more limited than that in the other regions of interest. These findings highlight the mechanical importance of the cement mantle and suggest that both cement stiffness and scaffold pore size should be jointly considered to ensure appropriate load sharing for bone regeneration.
Dimensional Stability of Polymer and Titanium Implant Scan Bodies After Repeated Steam Sterilization: A High-Resolution 3D Metrological In Vitro Study.
Smojver I, Bjelica R, Reiser Y … +3 more , Vuletić M, Prpić V, Gabrić D
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188422 · Full text
The increasing adoption of digital workflows in implant dentistry relies heavily on the accuracy of implant scan bodies (ISBs), which may be affected by repeated sterilization. This in vitro study evaluated the effect of...
The increasing adoption of digital workflows in implant dentistry relies heavily on the accuracy of implant scan bodies (ISBs), which may be affected by repeated sterilization. This in vitro study evaluated the effect of 50 steam sterilization cycles on the dimensional stability of polymer and titanium ISBs. A total of 100 test specimens ( = 50 per material) were scanned before (T0) and after sterilization (T50) using a high-resolution intraoral scanner, generating 900 STL datasets for metrological analysis. Surface deviation, linear displacement, and angular deviation were assessed using validated industrial and dental software, with statistical evaluation performed through paired tests and linear mixed-effects models. Both materials exhibited statistically significant dimensional changes after sterilization ( < 0.001). Titanium scan bodies demonstrated greater linear deformation (69.76 μm) compared to polymer ones (49.50 μm), while maintaining superior angular stability (0.21° vs. -1.69° mean angular change in the polymer group). A significant interaction between material type and sterilization was observed. Despite high baseline precision, repeated autoclaving induced clinically relevant deviations in both materials. These findings indicate that cumulative sterilization cycles adversely affect ISB accuracy and highlight the importance of adhering to manufacturer recommendations to ensure optimal prosthetic outcomes.
An Injectable Biopolymer Hydrogel Complex (PN/HA/B3) for Facial Skin Redensification and General Rejuvenation: Clinical Report on Device Safety and Efficacy.
Porcello A, Lourenço K, Marques C … +4 more , Raffoul W, Cerrano M, Applegate LA, Laurent AE
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188421 · Full text
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of HYDRAGEL A2, an injectable medical device containing hyaluronic acid (HA), polynucleotides (PN), and niacinamide, for improving facial skin quality. These ingredients...
This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of HYDRAGEL A2, an injectable medical device containing hyaluronic acid (HA), polynucleotides (PN), and niacinamide, for improving facial skin quality. These ingredients are increasingly recognized for their synergistic effects in aesthetic medicine, with HA and PN providing hydration and skin support, and niacinamide offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A prospective, open-label clinical investigation was conducted on 42 female subjects (mean age 45 ± 1 years, Fitzpatrick skin phototypes II-V) to assess skin elasticity, hydration, and mild skin depression correction following cheek area injections. Efficacy was measured using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), Antera 3D (texture), Cutometer (elasticity/firmness), Corneometer (hydration), and Dermascan (density/thickness) devices at baseline (D0), week 2 (W2/D14), and week 6 (W6/D42). GAIS values showed significant overall facial improvement ( < 0.001) by both investigators and subjects, where 100% of subjects rated their appearance as improved immediately post-injection (D0), with sustained improvements at D42. Objective measurements revealed significant improvements in skin texture (reduced roughness), elasticity, firmness, hydration ( < 0.001), density, and thickness, demonstrating the combined benefits of the HA, PN, and niacinamide blend. Injection site reactions, primarily mild and transient, were reported immediately post-injection. Investigators and subjects reported high satisfaction with the product's ease of use and aesthetic outcomes. Globally, HYDRAGEL A2, leveraging the established benefits of HA, PN, and niacinamide, was well-tolerated and effectively enhanced facial skin quality, demonstrating significant and sustained improvements in monitored skin parameters. The study concludes that this combination of ingredients, formulated in HYDRAGEL A2, provides a well-tolerated approach associated with improvements in skin quality.
Histomorphometric Evaluation of Subchronic and Chronic Effects of Novel Experimental Calcium Aluminate- and Calcium Silicate-Based Dental Cement Materials on Rat Liver, Kidney, Brain, and Spleen Tissues.
Ilić V, Milutinović-Smiljanić S, Biočanin V … +8 more , Kuzmanović Pfićer J, Tasić T, Danilović V, Japundžić-Žigon N, Paraš S, Jokanović V, Ćetković D, Antonijević Đ
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188420 · Full text
Although biocompatible calcium silicate cements (CSCs) and calcium aluminate cements (CACs) may induce local and systemic adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the subchronic and chronic effects of experimental C...
Although biocompatible calcium silicate cements (CSCs) and calcium aluminate cements (CACs) may induce local and systemic adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the subchronic and chronic effects of experimental CAC and CSC mixtures on rat liver, kidney, brain, and spleen tissue. Two experimental mixtures, CAC with added ZrO (ECCA + ZrO) and CSC with added ZrO (ECCS + ZrO), and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), were implanted intraalveolary in 36 male Wistar rats. Histomorphometry was conducted after 30 and 180 days on liver, kidney, brain, and spleen. Consistent results were observed in all material groups. Liver tissue inflammation ranged from none to minimal for all three materials. In kidney, ECCA + ZrO displayed a slightly better result than other two materials. In brain, after 180 days, both ECCA + ZrO and MTA showed a statistically significant reduction in perineural vacuolation ( < 0.05), and MTA showed a reduction in the percentage of intravascular congestion ( < 0.05). In spleen, a larger lymphoid follicle diameter was observed for ECCS + ZrO chronic group compared to other two materials ( < 0.05). ECCA + ZrO, ECCS + ZrO, and MTA caused none to minimal changes in liver, kidney, brain, and spleen following subchronic and chronic exposure.
Recombinant Spider Silk Enhances Engineered Cartilage Formation.
Zhang H, Huang X, Zhang J … +3 more , Zhang F, Sun F, Wan C
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188419 · Full text
Articular cartilage is characterized by its avascular, aneural, and alymphatic nature, which confers a limited intrinsic capacity for self-repair. Current regenerative strategies primarily focus on alleviating pain, miti...
Articular cartilage is characterized by its avascular, aneural, and alymphatic nature, which confers a limited intrinsic capacity for self-repair. Current regenerative strategies primarily focus on alleviating pain, mitigating symptoms, and restoring joint function. However, their long-term efficacy remains uncertain. Cartilage tissue engineering has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional therapies, offering innovative solutions for articular cartilage regeneration. Central to this approach is the development of functional biomaterials capable of supporting chondrogenic cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby facilitating effective cartilage repair. In this study, we introduce a novel protein-based recombinant spider silk (RSS) as a potential biomaterial for modulating chondrocyte behavior and enabling engineered cartilage formation both in vitro and in vivo. RSS was generated through molecular cloning and processed into silk fibers using biomimetic spinning and acidic coagulation techniques. In micromass cultures of murine chondrocytes, RSS significantly promoted cell aggregation, resulting in increased cell density. Alcian blue and Oil Red O staining demonstrated that RSS-treated cultures produced abundant glycosaminoglycans, a hallmark of chondrogenic activity, while exhibiting minimal lipid accumulation. These findings suggest that RSS supports chondrogenic differentiation and suppresses adipogenic lineage commitment. Real-time PCR analysis revealed upregulation of the chondrogenesis-related gene Sox9 and downregulation of the adipogenic marker PPARγ and the hypertrophic marker Runx2 in RSS-treated micromass cultures. RNA sequencing further corroborated these observations, underscoring the role of RSS in modulating extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in chondrocytes. In a subcutaneous transplantation model using severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice, chondrocytes encapsulated in three-dimensional hydrogel scaffolds containing RSS exhibited significantly enhanced ECM accumulation compared to RSS-free controls, indicating that RSS supports the maintenance of the chondrocyte phenotype and promotes cartilage formation in vivo, and underscoring its promising potential as a component of hydrogel composite systems. These findings highlight the potential of RSS as a functional biomaterial to preserve chondrocyte functionality and advance engineered cartilage formation, presenting a promising avenue for cartilage tissue engineering and regeneration.
Geometric Accuracy of 3D-Printed Composite Dental Restorations Compared with the Original STL Design.
Rossi T, Pascoletti G, Calì M … +8 more , Baiamonte G, Monaco FCR, Zanetti EM, Audenino A, Serino G, Coppola B, Messina A, Scotti N
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188418 · Full text
Additive manufacturing (AM) enables customized, efficient restorative workflows, though the accuracy of 3D-printed restorations may be compromised by polymerization, sintering shrinkage, and post-processing. This study e...
Additive manufacturing (AM) enables customized, efficient restorative workflows, though the accuracy of 3D-printed restorations may be compromised by polymerization, sintering shrinkage, and post-processing. This study evaluated the geometric accuracy of 3D-printed partial restorations compared with the computer-aided design (CAD) reference. The null hypothesis stated that no significant differences would be found between Varseo Smile Crown (by BEGO, Italy) and IRIXMax (by DWS System, Italy) materials, which are printed and cured with different technologies. A model was prepared for an overlay and designed with a 1.5 mm uniform thickness. Restorations were produced in two groups with two different printing processes: DLP (digital light processing)-printed Varseo Smile Crown and SLA (stereolithography)-printed IRIXMax. Six samples per group were printed at 90° orientation and scanned. Meshes were aligned to the master geometry via pre-alignment and ICP (Iterative Closest Point) registration. Deviations were quantified in CloudCompare using mean, standard deviation (SD), and 90th percentile values. IRIXMax showed the lowest deviations from the ideal geometry, while Varseo Smile Crown exhibited greater variability. Pairwise comparisons found IRIXMax significantly more accurate than Varseo Smile Crown. Color maps confirmed material-specific deviation patterns. IRIXMax provided the highest geometric accuracy. Material-specific calibration is essential for reliable 3D-printed definitive restorations.
Molecular Insights into the Synergistic Effect of Nano-Hydroxyapatite and on Osteoporotic Osseointegration: An In Vivo Gene Expression Study.
Barbosa ACL, Júnior JAG, da Silva LECM … +6 more , Nóbrega F, Bergamo ETP, Ghiraldini B, E Pessoa RS, Messora MR, Souza SS
J Funct Biomater · 2026 May · PMID 42188417 · Full text
Poor bone quality in osteoporotic patients remains a major challenge for achieving predictable osseointegration. This study serves as a mechanistic complement to previously reported structural data, aiming to investigate...
Poor bone quality in osteoporotic patients remains a major challenge for achieving predictable osseointegration. This study serves as a mechanistic complement to previously reported structural data, aiming to investigate the molecular pathways underlying the synergy between nanostructured surfaces and autologous blood concentrates in compromised bone. Ninety-six Wistar rats were divided into healthy (SHAM) and osteoporotic (OVX) groups. Implants with nanostructured hydroxyapatite (NanoHA) or dual acid-etched (DAE) surfaces were installed in the tibiae, associated or not with leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (). Gene expression (RT-qPCR) for , , , , , and was assessed at 7 and 30 days. In compromised systemic conditions (OVX), the NanoHA + association promoted a robust "molecular rescue" of bone metabolism. At 30 days, this synergistic group exhibited a significant upregulation of (mean: 11.69 ± 1.65) and (mean: 4.49 ± 0.82) compared to DAE controls ( < 0.05). Crucially, the therapy orchestrated a protective remodeling environment by significantly inducing expression (5.50 ± 0.88), effectively balancing the / ratio. Late-stage maturation markers ( and ) were also significantly elevated, effectively mimicking healthy physiological levels observed in the SHAM group. NanoHA biofunctionalization, synergistically with L-PRF, triggers a transcriptional reprogramming of the peri-implant microenvironment, mitigating the catabolic effects of estrogen deficiency. These findings provide a biological foundation for enhanced clinical predictability in high-risk patients, suggesting that local interfacial modifications can overcome systemic bone compromise.
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