Journal Of Functional Biomaterials[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Design and Development of Teixobactin Analog-Loaded Magnetic Nanocomposites for Biofilm Destruction and Pathogen Elimination.
Lei H, Liang Y, Li X … +3 more , Huang X, Zhang C, Zou T
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042296 · Full text
Although teixobactin, a promising cyclic undecadepsipeptide, exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria due to its novel mode of action and low potential for resistance, its clinical application is limited by two k...
Although teixobactin, a promising cyclic undecadepsipeptide, exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria due to its novel mode of action and low potential for resistance, its clinical application is limited by two key shortcomings: ineffectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria and poor penetration of the protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) in biofilms. This renders it unsuitable for targeting the polymicrobial biofilms, which are the cause of periodontitis and peri-implantitis. We designed a modified teixobactin analog by integrating rhamnolipid, Ag@FeO nanoparticles, and -Chg-teixobactin to obtain a novel magnetic nanoparticle (MNP). The MNP demonstrates the ability to simultaneously degrade EPS, penetrate biofilm structures, and eliminate both G and G pathogens under a rotating magnetic field (RMF). Rhamnolipid grafting degraded 52.5% of biofilm EPS. MNPs showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with minimal inhibitory concentrations from 100 to 200 µg/mL. Combined with RMF, biofilm eradication rates reached 97.0% (), 97.7% (), 88.4% (), and 74.2% (). The biofilm thickness was reduced from 19.4 ± 2.9 µm to 7.4 ± 1.0 µm, and the biofilm biomass was reduced by 68.5%. This combined strategy integrates enzymatic EPS degradation, magneto-mechanical disruption, and dual antimicrobial action, offering a promising topical therapy for periodontitis and peri-implantitis.
Evaluation of Post-Processing Time's Influence on Biocompatibility of 3D-Printed Denture Base Resins.
Dinescu M, Vasilescu VG, Ciocan LT … +8 more , Voicu-Balasea B, Țâncu AMC, Ripszky A, Miculescu F, Răuță SA, Cârstea AE, Pantea M, Imre M
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042295 · Full text
In the continuous development of additive technologies and light-sensitive resins, the biological performance of 3D-printed resins is strongly dependent on photopolymerization efficiency and post-processing conditions. T...
In the continuous development of additive technologies and light-sensitive resins, the biological performance of 3D-printed resins is strongly dependent on photopolymerization efficiency and post-processing conditions. This study evaluated the effect of post-curing duration on the cellular response to two denture base resins using direct contact and indirect eluate-based pathways. Human gingival fibroblasts were assessed through viability, membrane integrity, nitric oxide production, fluorescence live/dead staining, and caspase-3/7 activity. As a result of contact between the cells and the surface interface of the specimen disks, reduced metabolic activity was noticed compared with the control under direct exposure, indicating cellular stress. Extended polymerization has been demonstrated to improve metabolic activity and reduce apoptotic signals for the V-Print dentbase resin, whereas FotoDent Denture presented a less uniform response under the same parameters. Therefore, for evaluating the cytotoxicity of light-sensitive resins, it is not sufficient to assess only the saliva-soluble substances released from the resin, such as residual monomers, but also the 3D printing parameters.
Granulate-to-Filament: An Extrusion-Mixed PLA-Human Bone Material System for 3D-Printed Bone Scaffolds.
Neijhoft J, Weslati H, Eras V … +9 more , Brune J, Leiblein M, Bianconi S, Söhling N, Busse L, Verboket R, Frank J, Marzi I, Henrich D
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042294 · Full text
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) enables patient-specific scaffolds for critical-size bone defects, but most filaments are bioinert and difficult to functionalize at high particulate loadings due to segregation, agglomer...
Fused filament fabrication (FFF) enables patient-specific scaffolds for critical-size bone defects, but most filaments are bioinert and difficult to functionalize at high particulate loadings due to segregation, agglomeration, clogging, and diameter instability. We developed a mechanism-guided extrusion toolkit to stabilize polylactic acid (PLA) filaments containing human demineralized bone matrix (DBM) or cortical granulate (CG) up to 70 wt%. PLA was ground, dried, silicone pre-coated, and compounded with DBM or CG (25/40/70 wt%) using starve-fed extrusion, sequential extrusion, and post-die mixing to maintain stable diameters. FFF produced disks and tubes. MSC adhesion was assessed by SEM. qPCR (control vs. osteogenic medium) quantified RUNX2, ALP, BGLAP, COL1A, VEGF, IL-6, MAPK8. Tubes underwent three-point bending. The toolkit yielded printable, dimensionally stable filaments at 25-70 wt% with uniform dispersion and surface-exposed filler. Both composites increased early mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) adhesion versus PLA. RUNX2 was increased on DBM40 versus PLA. VEGF was elevated on CG25 (DBM40 trend). Under osteogenic medium, IL-6 and MAPK8 were generally reduced. Mechanics were loading-dependent: CG25 exceeded CG70 and DBM25, while DBM40/70 recovered stiffness versus DBM25. A mechanism-guided extrusion toolkit enables high-loading PLA-DBM/CG filaments with excellent printability and material-specific biological and mechanical advantages over PLA.
Bone Regeneration After Maxillary Sinus Augmentation with Allogeneic and Xenogeneic Biomaterials with Adjunctive Photobiomodulation: Histological and Radiological Secondary Outcomes of a Randomized Clinical Trial.
Dominiak S, Piotrowska A, Dominiak M … +6 more , Gedrange T, Dzięgiel P, Baranowska A, Ciszyński M, Hadzik J, Kubasiewicz-Ross P
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042293 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Atrophy of the alveolar ridge in the posterior maxilla often requires sinus floor elevation prior to implant placement. Photobiomodulation using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been suggested as a supporti...
BACKGROUND: Atrophy of the alveolar ridge in the posterior maxilla often requires sinus floor elevation prior to implant placement. Photobiomodulation using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been suggested as a supportive approach for bone healing, although data based on histological evaluation are still limited. METHODS: This study presents histological and radiological secondary outcomes of a randomized clinical trial on bone regeneration after lateral window sinus augmentation. Twenty patients were allocated according to grafting material (allogeneic or xenogeneic) and the use of adjunctive LLLT. After 6 months, bone core biopsies were obtained at the time of implant placement and processed for histological analysis. Radiological bone gain was assessed using CBCT. RESULTS: Bone gain was achieved in all groups, allowing implant placement in every case. Mean bone gain reached 7.53 ± 3.32 mm in LLLT-treated sites and 7.02 ± 2.00 mm in controls, with no statistically significant differences. Histological analysis confirmed trabecular bone formation across all groups. Mild inflammatory cell infiltrates were observed more frequently in LLLT-treated sites ( = 0.029), although this finding was not associated with impaired tissue organization or compromised healing. CONCLUSIONS: Both allogeneic and xenogeneic grafts showed good biocompatibility and supported effective bone regeneration after sinus augmentation. The addition of photobiomodulation did not demonstrate statistically significant clinical or radiological benefits within this exploratory cohort, but it may be associated with subtle differences in tissue remodeling.
Potentiation of a Porous Silicon Therapeutic Vaccine in Colorectal Cancer via Oxaliplatin-Mediated Regulation of Myeloid-Driven Immunosuppression.
Liu Y, Akay Hacan B, Zheng J … +11 more , Ge X, Yu D, Chen Z, Xu Y, Shao N, Shen H, Liu X, Pettigrew RI, Pan PY, Chen SH, Mai J
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042292 · Full text
Although immunotherapy has shown great promise in treating various types of cancer, advanced tumors are often refractory due to a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). We previously engineered a cancer t...
Although immunotherapy has shown great promise in treating various types of cancer, advanced tumors are often refractory due to a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). We previously engineered a cancer therapeutic vaccine platform, µGCVax, by co-loading tumor antigen peptides, STING and TLR9 agonists into porous silicon microparticles. While effective in models with lower disease burden, its efficacy against advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) was less promising due to the accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in TMEs. In this study, we investigated whether µGCVax-based immunotherapy in advanced CRCs could be potentiated via regulating MDSCs to reprogram the TME. In an advanced CT26 murine CRC model, we assessed µGCVax in combination with oxaliplatin, a standard CRC chemotherapeutic with established immunomodulatory effects. We demonstrated that oxaliplatin was preferentially taken up by monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSCs) and effectively reduced their abundance in the bone marrow, blood, spleen, and tumor. Relief of this immunosuppressive TME increased intratumoral infiltration of antigen-specific CD8 T cells. Ultimately, the combination of oxaliplatin with µGCVax induced robust regression of established CRC tumors. These findings highlight that oxaliplatin synergizes with µGCVax by overcoming MDSC-mediated immunosuppression and enhancing antitumor immunity, representing a promising chemo-immunotherapy strategy for advanced CRC.
Advances and Challenges in Tissue Engineering: Biomaterials, Cellular Strategies, and Clinical Applications.
Farjaminejad R, Farjaminejad S, Garcia-Godoy F … +3 more , Marya A, Nucci L, Jamilian A
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042291 · Full text
Tissue engineering integrates concepts from medicine, biology, and engineering to create living constructs capable of repairing, replacing, or supporting damaged tissues. This multidisciplinary field relies on the interp...
Tissue engineering integrates concepts from medicine, biology, and engineering to create living constructs capable of repairing, replacing, or supporting damaged tissues. This multidisciplinary field relies on the interplay between biomaterials, cellular sources, and bioactive signaling to achieve functional tissue regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in scaffold design, highlighting natural, synthetic, and hybrid materials, as well as innovative fabrication techniques such as electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and smart biomaterials. It discusses the role of stem cells and growth factors in directing regeneration and examines a wide range of clinical applications, including skin regeneration, cartilage repair, bone tissue engineering, dental and periodontal regeneration, nerve repair, cardiac tissue engineering, liver tissue models, and ophthalmic applications. Current challenges, such as immune responses, limited vascularization, scalability, and regulatory barriers, are addressed alongside emerging strategies aimed at improving clinical translation. By integrating diverse tissue types and engineering approaches within a unified framework, this review offers a broad yet detailed perspective on the current state and future directions of regenerative medicine.
Comparative Late Effects of Hemostatic Biomaterials on Wound Healing at 14 and 30 Days: An In Vivo Animal Study.
Shabes P, Rembe JD, Mammadova A … +5 more , Beckamp KH, Wagenhäuser MU, Ibing W, Schelzig H, Garabet W
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042290 · Full text
Hemostatic biomaterial agents are widely used during surgery and trauma care to control bleeding, yet their effects on wound healing remain incompletely understood. This study evaluated the impact of oxidized non-regener...
Hemostatic biomaterial agents are widely used during surgery and trauma care to control bleeding, yet their effects on wound healing remain incompletely understood. This study evaluated the impact of oxidized non-regenerated cellulose (ONRC), oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC), and a gelatin-based hemostat (GELA) on wound healing at 14 and 30 days in a mouse model. Full-thickness wounds were created in C57BL/6J mice ( = 192) and compared to sham controls. Tissue samples were analyzed histologically, supported by immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 and α-SMA and qPCR for VEGF, TGF-β, and FGF-2. Histology demonstrated preserved tissue architecture across groups with progressive resorption of cellulose-based materials, whereas GELA showed localized fibrous structures and enhanced extracellular matrix formation. At day 14, no significant differences were observed in proliferation, contraction, VEGF, or FGF-2 expression; however, TGF-β was significantly reduced in the ORC group. By day 30, GELA significantly increased epidermal proliferation, while contraction markers were elevated in both GELA and ORC. VEGF expression was reduced in GELA and ORC, whereas ONRC showed increased TGF-β expression. FGF-2 remained unchanged across groups. All investigated hemostatic materials were well tolerated during the early postoperative phase (up to day 14), indicating short-term biocompatibility within the scope of this model. In contrast, material-specific differences in cellular activity and growth factor expression became apparent during the later remodeling phase (day 30). These findings suggest differential effects on cellular and molecular aspects of tissue remodeling; however, no conclusions can be drawn regarding overall healing quality or clinical safety, as no quantitative macroscopic or functional outcome measures were assessed.
Biological Effects on S-PRG: An Integrative Review.
Balthazar Cavalcante de Oliveira H, Zablocki da Luz J, Eduardo de Lima F … +7 more , de Castro Busatto Fernandes C, Barbosa Wetter L, Silva Schiebel C, Vieira Souza A, Smiderle FR, Maria-Ferreira D, Machado-Souza C
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042289 · Full text
Advances in dental material science over recent decades have significantly improved the mechanical, physical, esthetic, and adhesive properties of restorative systems. As clinical performance and durability have reached...
Advances in dental material science over recent decades have significantly improved the mechanical, physical, esthetic, and adhesive properties of restorative systems. As clinical performance and durability have reached high standards, research has progressively shifted from purely mechanical replacement toward the development of bioactive materials capable of interacting beneficially with biological tissues. Rather than functioning solely as passive restoratives, contemporary materials are increasingly designed to contribute to disease prevention and tissue repair. Bioactive functionality encompasses both bioprotective and biopromotive effects, including antimicrobial activity, reinforcement of the dental substrate, promotion of remineralization, modulation of inflammatory responses, and stimulation of regenerative pathways. In this context, the surface pre-reacted glass ionomer (S-PRG) particle has emerged as a multifunctional bioactive technology. Its unique three-layer structure enables sustained release of multiple ions, fluoride, strontium, boron, sodium, silicate, and aluminum, associated with mineralization, biofilm inhibition, inflammatory regulation, and activation of cellular signaling pathways. An integrative review was conducted through a literature search in PubMed, SciELO and Scopus using the descriptors "Surface-reaction-type prereacted glass ionomer" and "S-PRG." Experimental studies evaluating antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, remineralizing, cellular, or regenerative effects of S-PRG-containing materials were considered eligible. A total of 49 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed through descriptive synthesis. The available evidence indicates that the biological activity of S-PRG-containing materials extends beyond caries prevention, including modulation of inflammatory responses, enhancement of mineralization processes, and stimulation of cellular pathways related to tissue repair. These findings highlight the potential of S-PRG technology as a promising strategy for the development of restorative materials with regenerative and preventive properties.
Osteogenic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Strontium-Loaded Polydopamine on Micro-Arc Oxidized Titanium Surfaces.
Yang Y, Liu R, Zhou Y … +4 more , Yuan L, Li Z, Liao Q, Fang B
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042288 · Full text
Titanium implants are widely used in orthopedic and dental fields but often face challenges such as insufficient osseointegration and peri-implant inflammation. While Strontium (Sr) possesses potent bioactive properties,...
Titanium implants are widely used in orthopedic and dental fields but often face challenges such as insufficient osseointegration and peri-implant inflammation. While Strontium (Sr) possesses potent bioactive properties, achieving its controlled delivery at the implant-tissue interface remains technically challenging. To address this, we engineered a multidimensional composite coating by constructing a micro/nano-porous TiO substrate via micro-arc oxidation (MAO), followed by polydopamine (PDA)-assisted Sr immobilization. This integrated architecture significantly enhanced surface hydrophilicity and facilitated high-content Sr loading with sustained release kinetics. Biological evaluations demonstrated that the PDA-mediated interface promoted superior initial adhesion and spreading of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), synergizing with released Sr to markedly upregulate core osteogenic markers (, ). Crucially, the functionalized surface actively optimized the immune microenvironment by inducing M1-to-M2 macrophage polarization and comprehensively suppressing RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis via the downregulation of TRAP and DC-STAMP. By integrating these pro-osteogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-resorptive capabilities, this tri-functional system effectively rebalances the bone remodeling microenvironment. Consequently, it provides a robust, universally applicable strategy for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of next-generation orthopedic and dental implants.
Development and Ex Vivo Evaluation of a Thermoreversible Silver Nanoparticle-Loaded Gel as a Biocompatible Intracanal Medicament.
Hsia SM, Tu MG, Yang WH … +3 more , Wang TH, Shih YH, Shieh TM
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042287 · Full text
Inspired by their biocompatibility and thermoreversible gelation-transitioning from room temperature liquids to body temperature gels-Pluronic hydrogels were employed in this study to optimize intracanal penetration and...
Inspired by their biocompatibility and thermoreversible gelation-transitioning from room temperature liquids to body temperature gels-Pluronic hydrogels were employed in this study to optimize intracanal penetration and ensure medicament stability. We developed a silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-loaded Pluronic gel (AgNPs-P-gel) as a biocompatible, easily removable intracanal medicament. Following PRILE 2021 guidelines, AgNPs-P-gels (F127/F68) were evaluated for gelation, AgNP release, and antibacterial activity against and via minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and growth curves. Biofilms in bovine teeth were quantified using CFUs and scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging. Biocompatibility was tested in L-929 fibroblasts using MTT assays and RT-qPCR for pro-inflammatory cytokines (, , ). Removal efficacy from bovine canals was microscopically scored. The optimized formulation (20% F127, 7.5% F68) gelled at 34 °C with sustained release over 168 h. AgNPs-P-gel showed strong antibacterial activity (MIC: 25-50 µg/mL). In ex vivo models, 100 µg/mL AgNPs-P-gel (AgNPs-100-P-gel) reduced bacterial counts comparably to calcium hydroxide and chlorhexidine, but with lower cytotoxicity. Although inducing cytokine expression similar to conventional medicaments, AgNPs-P-gel demonstrated significantly superior removability. Thermoreversible AgNPs-P-gel offers sustained antimicrobial action, favorable biocompatibility, and superior removability, potentially improving endodontic disinfection predictability as a calcium hydroxide alternative.
Structure and Mechanical Properties of Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb (at. %) Alloys for Medical Use.
Sergienko KV, Konushkin SV, Morozova YA … +8 more , Sudarchikova MA, Kaplan MA, Zhidkov VK, Sevostyanova TM, Simakin AV, Baimler IV, Sevostyanov MA, Kolmakov AG
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042286 · Full text
The research described in this article is a continuation of a series of studies on biocompatible materials, focused on finding the optimal alloy composition and heat treatment regimes. The use of materials with a low You...
The research described in this article is a continuation of a series of studies on biocompatible materials, focused on finding the optimal alloy composition and heat treatment regimes. The use of materials with a low Young's modulus ensures the long-term safety of the implant by reducing the stress shielding effect, which causes bone resorption. This work investigates the effect of alloying with niobium in the range of (8-10) at. % on the Ti-38Zr alloy, specifically its structure, mechanical properties, Young's modulus, and superelasticity. In this study, plates of the Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb (at. %) alloy were investigated after quenching and subsequent annealing. In Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb alloys, quenching from 600 °C fixes the β-phase of Ti. In alloys with (8-9)Nb, this is a metastable β-phase, as evidenced by its superelastic behavior under cyclic tension. Annealing at 400 °C leads to a clear decomposition of the quenched high-temperature β-phase in Ti-38Zr-(8-9)Nb alloys into β- and α'-phases. Based on the mechanical test results, it can be inferred that the precipitation of the brittle ω-phase and the α'-phase occur concurrently, since annealing at 400 °C causes a pronounced embrittlement of the Ti-38Zr-(8-9)Nb alloys (with elongation dropping from ~15% to 0.7-2.5%, respectively) alongside a substantial increase in strength (from 500 MPa to 1010 MPa). For the Ti-38Zr-10Nb alloy, the ductility also declines but remains within acceptable limits (from ~14% to ~10%), while the strength rises from 520 MPa to 630 MPa. The Young's modulus of the Ti-38Zr-(8-10)Nb alloy after quenching is ~80 GPa. After annealing, it increases to 95 GPa for alloys with (8-9)Nb, while for 10Nb it remains at approximately 80 GPa.
Multiscale Interface Engineering for Orthopedic and Dental Implants: A Review.
Ashraf F, Altaf AA
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042285 · Full text
Multiscale interface engineering has influenced the engineering of orthopedic and dental implants through the integration of macroscale architecture, micro-textured surfaces and nanoscale bio-cues. These characteristics...
Multiscale interface engineering has influenced the engineering of orthopedic and dental implants through the integration of macroscale architecture, micro-textured surfaces and nanoscale bio-cues. These characteristics help to increase mechanical stability and support early biological responses, as well as increase resistance to microbial colonization. Multiscale interface engineering also helps to explore fabrication schemes that facilitate load-sharing lattices and micro-roughened attachment zones, as well as immune-interactive nano-chemistry. In this study, the biological responses of protein adsorption, osteogenic differentiation, connective-tissue sealing, and macrophage polarization are investigated, together with functional barriers in stress transfer, fatigue resistance and biofilm control. New clinical data with regard to arthroplasty and dental implantology are reviewed to put these factors into perspective. Even though engineered surfaces are reliable in promoting early fixation and initial osseointegration, in the long term, their performance depends on the host's biological variability, the mechanical forces of loading, coating integrity and peri-implant microbial pressure. Altogether, multiscale interface engineering is an evolving approach to enhancing the lifespan of implants and facilitating biologically sound skeletal and oral reconstruction. A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify studies published between 2000 and 2025. Approximately 320 articles were initially identified, of which about 140 relevant publications were selected for detailed review.
Biomimetic Chitosan/Polyvinyl Alcohol-Glycerol Scaffolds Inspired by Porcupine Quills for Segmental Bone Defect Repair.
Yang J, Zhao Z, Song Z … +3 more , Cao L, Mei X, Zhang X
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042284 · Full text
Segmental bone defects are large, non-healing injuries characterized by insufficient structural support and limited bioactivity, posing a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we developed biomimetic chitosan/po...
Segmental bone defects are large, non-healing injuries characterized by insufficient structural support and limited bioactivity, posing a significant clinical challenge. In this study, we developed biomimetic chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol-glycerol (CS/PG) scaffolds inspired by porcupine quills, which were fabricated via fused deposition modeling and unidirectional freeze casting. The as-prepared scaffold featured a dense outer layer of polyvinyl alcohol-glycerol (PG) with high compressive strength (24.21 ± 0.11 MPa at 25% strain) and an oriented inner foam of chitosan (CS). The CS foam was further incorporated with poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonic acid (PEDOT:PSS, denoted as PP) and amorphous zinc phosphate (AZP) to form PP-AZP-CS/PG, aimed at enhancing neural conductivity and stimulating blood vessel formation, respectively. The in vitro results indicated that the biomimetic scaffolds exhibited excellent biocompatibility while significantly enhancing angiogenesis and osteogenesis capabilities. In a rabbit radial segmental defect model, PP-AZP-CS/PG achieved robust bone regeneration, attaining a bone volume/total volume of approximately 26.22% after implantation for 8 weeks. Overall, this biomimetic scaffold demonstrated that integrating hierarchical design with additional bioactive components enhanced mechanical support while promoting new bone regeneration, addressing critical challenges in segmental bone defect repair.
Bone Substitutes in Alveolar Ridge Augmentation: A Narrative Literature Review.
Bubalo M, Dugonjic S, Dubovina D … +8 more , Stojanovic Z, Gardasevic M, Mijatovic J, Milovanovic B, Stevic M, Stepovic M, Jeremic D, Rajkovic Pavlovic Z
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042283 · Full text
Adequate alveolar bone volume is a prerequisite for predictable and long-term success in dental implant therapy. Physiological post-extraction remodeling frequently results in horizontal and vertical ridge deficiencies,...
Adequate alveolar bone volume is a prerequisite for predictable and long-term success in dental implant therapy. Physiological post-extraction remodeling frequently results in horizontal and vertical ridge deficiencies, which may compromise optimal implant placement. Guided bone regeneration (GBR) has become a cornerstone procedure in implant dentistry, with clinical outcomes largely influenced by the biological and mechanical characteristics of grafting materials. Different bone grafts and their combinations are currently clinically applicable, each exhibiting distinct osteogenic, osteoinductive, and osteoconductive properties, as well as varying resorption profiles and volumetric stability. This narrative review aims to analyze the biological principles of alveolar ridge augmentation, compare the properties of commonly used graft materials, evaluate clinical outcomes, and discuss emerging regenerative strategies. Literature published between 2000 and 2025 was assessed to synthesize current evidence regarding graft integration, bone formation, desorption dynamics, and clinical indications. Autogenous bone remains the gold standard due to its combined osteogenic, osteoinductive, and osteoconductive potential; however, its limitations have driven the development of alternative materials, including allografts, xenografts, alloplastic substitutes, demineralized tooth matrices, platelet concentrates, and customized scaffolds. While no single material is universally ideal, appropriate selection based on defect characteristics and clinical objectives is essential for predictable outcomes. Future research should prioritize long-term comparative trials, biomaterial standardization, and biologically enhanced regenerative approaches.
Engineering a Nanostructured Hybrid Gel System with Sodium Humate for Enhanced Wound Healing.
Peneva P, Kokova V, Apostolova E … +8 more , Simeonov P, Zahariev N, Gvozdeva Y, Penkov D, Hadjikinova R, Bivolarski I, Koleva M, Katsarov P
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042282 · Full text
The development of effective topical drug delivery systems remains a key challenge in wound management, particularly for bioactive compounds with limited skin permeability. In this study, a nanostructured bigel system in...
The development of effective topical drug delivery systems remains a key challenge in wound management, particularly for bioactive compounds with limited skin permeability. In this study, a nanostructured bigel system incorporating sodium humate-loaded ultra-deformable vesicles (UDVs) was developed and evaluated for wound healing applications. Sodium humate-loaded UDVs were prepared using a thin-layer hydration method, and the influence of key technological parameters (phospholipid/glycerol concentrations, sonication time) on vesicle size and encapsulation efficiency was investigated. An optimized UDV formulation characterized by small particle size, high stability, and high drug encapsulation efficiency was selected and incorporated into a bigel composed of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel and andiroba oil oleogel. The developed bigels were characterized in terms of microstructure, physical stability, pH, spreadability, and rheological behavior, demonstrating suitable properties for dermal application. In vivo wound healing evaluation in rat wound models revealed that bigels containing sodium humate-loaded UDVs significantly enhanced wound closure and tissue regeneration compared to control and reference treatments. Histopathological analysis confirmed improved granulation tissue formation and complete epithelialization. Overall, the results demonstrate that the proposed UDV-loaded hybrid bigel represents a promising nanostructured platform for enhanced dermal delivery and wound healing therapy.
Additive-Manufactured S53P4@PCL Composite Scaffolds Functionalized with Aptamers and Antibacterial Exosomes for Rapid Bacterial Capture and Killing.
Zhang C, Lin R, You J … +6 more , Wang Y, Wang H, Ru Y, Xing S, Wang J, Chen S
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042281 · Full text
Bone defects remain a significant challenge in bone tissue engineering, driving an urgent need for advanced materials with enhanced therapeutic properties. Additive manufacturing highlights a unique capacity for customiz...
Bone defects remain a significant challenge in bone tissue engineering, driving an urgent need for advanced materials with enhanced therapeutic properties. Additive manufacturing highlights a unique capacity for customization, which enables the precise realization of complex and personalized composite scaffolds. This study innovatively integrates the superior mechanical properties of polycaprolactone (PCL) with the antibacterial characteristics of S53P4 bioactive glass. Utilizing thermal melt extrusion processing and fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology, we fabricated gradient-structured S53P4@PCL composite three-dimensional porous scaffolds with varying doping ratios (5 wt%, 10 wt%, 20 wt%). To further improve the antibacterial efficacy of the scaffold, exosomes (EXO) derived from grouper eggs were functionalized with bacteria-targeting aptamers (APTs), a type of functional DNA capable of binding to bacterial peptidoglycan, and EXO-APT-20%S53P4@PCL was fabricated. The resulting EXO-APT-20%S53P4@PCL scaffold was able to facilitate the targeted capture and subsequent eradication of bacteria. This study pioneers the synergistic integration of aptamer-modified exosomes into 3D composite scaffolds. Our analysis confirmed that the incorporation of APTs enabled targeted bacterial capture, and antibacterial EXO further enhanced the overall bacterial killing capability of the S53P4@PCL scaffolds. The fabrication of porous S53P4@PCL scaffolds through an innovative composite-molding strategy, combined with EXO-APT functionalization, establishes a new paradigm for customized bone repair.
Towards Sustainable Bone Grafting: Life Cycle Assessment of Donor Cadaver-Derived Allograft (BMG) Production Using a BMP-Preserving Approach.
Veress SK, Golu MV, Csönge L … +3 more , Kerekes-Máthé B, Székely M, Bögözi BB
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042280 · Full text
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Healthcare activities contribute significantly to climate change and environmental pollution. The demand for bone grafting is increasing, and the biological properties of bone substitute materials...
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Healthcare activities contribute significantly to climate change and environmental pollution. The demand for bone grafting is increasing, and the biological properties of bone substitute materials are critically important. A methodology aimed at preserving BMPs may offer an opportunity to improve the biological properties of donor cadaver-derived bone grafts. The aim of this study was to conduct a life cycle assessment of the BMP-preserving approach used in allograft production in order to enhance the environmental sustainability of bone grafting. METHODS: Following primary data collection at the West Hungarian Regional Tissue Bank, environmental impacts were assessed using the OpenLCA software and the ReCiPe v1.03 (2016) midpoint and endpoint impact categories. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted under six alternative scenarios to evaluate which changes would have the greatest beneficial effect on environmental impacts. RESULTS: The greatest environmental impacts of allograft production were observed in the categories of material resources: metals and minerals, terrestrial ecotoxicity, and climate change. The climate change impact was 66.759 kg CO-eq. The environmental impacts of the production process also had a significant influence on human health, with a total DALY value of 6.58 h. The impacts were primarily driven by electricity consumption and the chemicals used; however, in several impact categories, waste management also contributed substantially. CONCLUSIONS: Transitioning to more sustainable energy sources (e.g., wind power) would substantially improve the environmental performance of allograft production. Further research is needed to identify more sustainable alternatives for the chemical agents used during processing.
Piezoelectric Biomaterials for Osteochondral Tissue Engineering: Advances, Mechanisms, and Translational Prospects.
Wang H, Li Y
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042279 · Full text
Piezoelectric biomaterials have attracted considerable interest in osteochondral tissue engineering owing to their inherent ability to produce electrical signals in response to mechanical stimuli without external power,...
Piezoelectric biomaterials have attracted considerable interest in osteochondral tissue engineering owing to their inherent ability to produce electrical signals in response to mechanical stimuli without external power, thereby closely mimicking the physiological electrical microenvironment required for tissue regeneration. This review comprehensively summarizes recent insights into biological piezoelectricity from the molecular to the macroscopic level, highlighting its interplay with streaming potentials and its regulatory roles in bone and cartilage regeneration. We critically analyze recent advances in major piezoelectric material systems, including ceramics, polymers, and composite scaffolds, with emphasis on their structural characteristics, bioactive performance, and suitability for tissue-specific repair. Among them, polymer-based composite and hybrid piezoelectric scaffolds appear particularly promising for the development of flexible, high-performance osteochondral repair platforms, as they offer a more favorable balance between mechanical compliance, electromechanical output, and biological adaptability. Despite encouraging preclinical findings, significant challenges remain, including biocompatibility, controlled degradation kinetics, and the precise modulation of electrical cues for specific biological contexts. To address these barriers, future research should focus on optimizing scaffold design, integrating responsive and multimodal stimulation strategies, and establishing standardized protocols for preclinical evaluation and clinical translation. Overall, piezoelectric biomaterials hold substantial potential for the development of innovative regenerative therapies for complex osteochondral defects.
Electrical Microenvironment Reconstruction and the Application of Biomaterials in Spinal Cord Injury.
Zhang J, Zou X, Li M … +1 more , Liu Y
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042278 · Full text
The key challenge in restoring neural function after spinal cord injury stems from a vicious cycle triggered by the collapse of the bioelectrical microenvironment at the injury site: an 'electrical silence-neuronal degen...
The key challenge in restoring neural function after spinal cord injury stems from a vicious cycle triggered by the collapse of the bioelectrical microenvironment at the injury site: an 'electrical silence-neuronal degeneration-glial proliferation' cascade that conventional therapies fail to reverse. This review systematically summarizes the pathological mechanisms of electrical microenvironment imbalance and its critical role in neural regeneration. Furthermore, current intervention strategies based on biomaterials are outlined: evolving from passive reconstruction of electrical pathways using conductive materials to proactive regulation of local electric fields through exogenous electrical stimulation, which activates key signaling pathways, such as voltage-gated calcium channels, and thereby promotes axonal regeneration, stem cell differentiation, and immune modulation. Although existing strategies face challenges in precision and biocompatibility, this review integrates multidisciplinary perspectives from neuroscience and biomaterials to establish a theoretical framework for designing precise, biocompatible electrically modulating biomaterials. Ultimately, we aim to advance spinal cord injury treatment from local electrical environment restoration toward a paradigm shift toward functional neural circuit reconstruction.
Nerve Guidance Conduit Prepared from Decellularized Small Intestine for Nerve Repair.
Huang XT, Lin YC, Cheng LY … +2 more , Chang YD, Su WY
J Funct Biomater · 2026 Apr · PMID 42042277 · Full text
Braided nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) composed of decellularized porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) were developed to achieve an appropriate balance between mechanical performance and biological compatibility for...
Braided nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) composed of decellularized porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) were developed to achieve an appropriate balance between mechanical performance and biological compatibility for peripheral nerve repair. This study aimed to compare four SIS-braided conduits with silicone tubes in terms of bending compliance, tensile strength, swelling behavior, and cytocompatibility. SIS-braided conduit exhibited a favorable combination of flexibility, tensile strength, and dimensional stability. In vitro evaluations using PC12 and SW10 cells demonstrated that SIS-braided conduit supported neurite outgrowth and Schwann cell adhesion, confirming its favorable cytocompatibility. Based on these findings, SIS-braided conduits and silicone tubes were subsequently evaluated in a rat sciatic nerve defect model. Functional recovery assessed using the Sciatic Functional Index suggested preliminary functional recovery in the SIS-braided conduit, and histological analyses revealed evidence of axonal regeneration and myelin formation within the conduit. Overall, the results indicate that the integration of mechanical robustness with biological activity is essential for the design of nerve graft substitutes. The conduit braided from decellularized small intestinal submucosa represents a promising biodegradable alternative, a considerable biodegradable alternative to conventional non-degradable silicone conduits for peripheral nerve repair.
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