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Polymers
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Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications
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Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomacromolecules, Biobased and Biodegradable Polymers".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2022) | Viewed by 76881

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Luis García-Fernández

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Institute of Polymer Science and Technology (ICTP-CSIC), Juan de la Cierva 3, 28006 Madrid, Spain
2. Networking Biomedical Research Centre in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, 28029 Madrid, Spain
Interests: antimicrobials; biomaterials; natural polymers; polymers; polymer composites; nanomaterial; scaffold; surface modification; drug delivery; tissue engineering

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymers are the largest and most versatile class of biomaterials being extensively applied for therapeutic applications. From natural to synthetic polymers, the possibilities to design and modify their physical–chemical properties make these systems of great interest in a wide range of biomedical applications as diverse as drug delivery systems, organ-on-a-chip, diagnostics, tissue engineering, and so on.

In recent years, advances in the synthesis and modification of polymers and characterization techniques have allowed the design of novel biomaterials as well as the study of their biological behavior in vitro and in vivo.

The purpose of this Special Issue is to highlight recent achievements from the synthesis and modifications of polymers for biomedical applications to final applications in the field of biomedicine.

Dr. Luis García-Fernández
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • hydrogels
  • scaffold
  • drug delivery system
  • tissue engineering
  • polymers
  • natural polymer
  • biomaterial
  • synthesis
  • modification

Published Papers (24 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 6108 KiB  
Article
Design and Fabrication of Nanofibrous Dura Mater with Antifibrosis and Neuroprotection Effects on SH-SY5Y Cells
by Zhiyuan Zhao, Tong Wu, Yu Cui, Rui Zhao, Qi Wan and Rui Xu
Polymers 2022, 14(9), 1882; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14091882 - 05 May 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2077
Abstract
The development and treatment of some diseases, such as large-area cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, brain tumor, and craniocerebral trauma, which may involve the injury of the dura mater, elicit the need to repair this membrane by dural grafts. However, common dural grafts tend [...] Read more.
The development and treatment of some diseases, such as large-area cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, brain tumor, and craniocerebral trauma, which may involve the injury of the dura mater, elicit the need to repair this membrane by dural grafts. However, common dural grafts tend to result in dural adhesions and scar tissue and have no further neuroprotective effects. In order to reduce or avoid the complications of dural repair, we used PLGA, tetramethylpyrazine, and chitosan as raw materials to prepare a nanofibrous dura mater (NDM) with excellent biocompatibility and adequate mechanical characteristics, which can play a neuroprotective role and have an antifibrotic effect. We fabricated PLGA NDM by electrospinning, and then chitosan was grafted on the nanofibrous dura mater by the EDC-NHS cross-linking method to obtain PLGA/CS NDM. Then, we also prepared PLGA/TMP/CS NDM by coaxial electrospinning. Our study shows that the PLGA/TMP/CS NDM can inhibit the excessive proliferation of fibroblasts, as well as provide a sustained protective effect on the SH-SY5Y cells treated with oxygen–glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R). In conclusion, our study may provide a new alternative to dural grafts in undesirable cases of dural injuries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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19 pages, 5456 KiB  
Article
Medical-Grade Silicone Rubber–Hydrogel-Composites for Modiolar Hugging Cochlear Implants
by Suheda Yilmaz-Bayraktar, Katharina Foremny, Michaela Kreienmeyer, Athanasia Warnecke and Theodor Doll
Polymers 2022, 14(9), 1766; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14091766 - 26 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2518
Abstract
The gold standard for the partial restoration of sensorineural hearing loss is cochlear implant surgery, which restores patients’ speech comprehension. The remaining limitations, e.g., music perception, are partly due to a gap between cochlear implant electrodes and the auditory nerve cells in the [...] Read more.
The gold standard for the partial restoration of sensorineural hearing loss is cochlear implant surgery, which restores patients’ speech comprehension. The remaining limitations, e.g., music perception, are partly due to a gap between cochlear implant electrodes and the auditory nerve cells in the modiolus of the inner ear. Reducing this gap will most likely lead to improved cochlear implant performance. To achieve this, a bending or curling mechanism in the electrode array is discussed. We propose a silicone rubber–hydrogel actuator where the hydrogel forms a percolating network in the dorsal silicone rubber compartment of the electrode array to exert bending forces at low volume swelling ratios. A material study of suitable polymers (medical-grade PDMS and hydrogels), including parametrized bending curvature measurements, is presented. The curvature radii measured meet the anatomical needs for positioning electrodes very closely to the modiolus. Besides stage-one biocompatibility according to ISO 10993-5, we also developed and validated a simplified mathematical model for designing hydrogel-actuated CI with modiolar hugging functionality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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13 pages, 11173 KiB  
Article
Tribological and Antibacterial Properties of Polyetheretherketone Composites with Black Phosphorus Nanosheets
by Xuhui Sun, Chengcheng Yu, Lin Zhang, Jingcao Cao, Emrullah Hakan Kaleli and Guoxin Xie
Polymers 2022, 14(6), 1242; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14061242 - 19 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2272
Abstract
Over the past few decades, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) artificial bone joint materials faced problems of poor wear resistance and easy infection, which are not suitable for the growing demand of bone joints. The tribological behavior and wear mechanism of polyetheretherketone (PEEK)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with black [...] Read more.
Over the past few decades, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) artificial bone joint materials faced problems of poor wear resistance and easy infection, which are not suitable for the growing demand of bone joints. The tribological behavior and wear mechanism of polyetheretherketone (PEEK)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets have been investigated under dry sliding friction. Compared with pure PEEK, the COF of PEEK/10 wt% PTFE/0.5 wt% BP was reduced by about 73% (from 0.369 to 0.097) and the wear rate decreased by approximately 95% (from 1.0 × 10−4 mm3/(N m) to 5.1 × 10−6 mm3/(N m)) owing to the lubrication of the BP transfer film. Moreover, BP can endow the PEEK composites with excellent biological wettability and antibacterial properties. The antibacterial rate of PEEK/PTFE/BP was assessed to be over 99.9%, which might help to solve the problem of PEEK implant inflammation. After comprehensive evaluation in this research, 0.5 wt% BP nanosheet-filled PEEK/PTFE material displayed the optimum lubrication and antibacterial properties, and thus could be considered as a potential candidate for its application in biomedical materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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12 pages, 2592 KiB  
Article
Quaternized Amphiphilic Block Copolymers as Antimicrobial Agents
by Chih-Hao Chang, Chih-Hung Chang, Ya-Wen Yang, Hsuan-Yu Chen, Shu-Jyuan Yang, Wei-Cheng Yao and Chi-Yang Chao
Polymers 2022, 14(2), 250; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14020250 - 08 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1583
Abstract
In this study, a novel polystyrene-block-quaternized polyisoprene amphipathic block copolymer (PS-b-PIN) is derived from anionic polymerization. Quaternized polymers are prepared through post-quaternization on a functionalized polymer side chain. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of quaternized polymers without red blood cell (RBCs) hemolysis [...] Read more.
In this study, a novel polystyrene-block-quaternized polyisoprene amphipathic block copolymer (PS-b-PIN) is derived from anionic polymerization. Quaternized polymers are prepared through post-quaternization on a functionalized polymer side chain. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of quaternized polymers without red blood cell (RBCs) hemolysis can be controlled by block composition, side chain length, and polymer morphology. The solvent environment is highly related to the polymer morphology, forming micelles or other structures. The polymersome formation would decrease the hemolysis and increase the electron density or quaternized groups density as previous research and our experiment revealed. Herein, the PS-b-PIN with N,N-dimethyldodecylamine as side chain would form a polymersome structure in the aqueous solution to display the best inhibiting bacterial growth efficiency without hemolytic effect. Therefore, the different single-chain quaternized groups play an important role in the antibacterial action, and act as a controllable factor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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13 pages, 2352 KiB  
Article
Non-Woven Sheet Containing Gemcitabine: Controlled Release Complex for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
by Kazuma Sakura, Masao Sasai, Takayuki Mino and Hiroshi Uyama
Polymers 2022, 14(1), 168; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14010168 - 01 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1641
Abstract
The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains low, and the development of new methods for its treatment is actively underway. After the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer, recurrence and peritoneal dissemination can be prevented by long-term local exposure to appropriate drug concentrations. [...] Read more.
The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains low, and the development of new methods for its treatment is actively underway. After the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer, recurrence and peritoneal dissemination can be prevented by long-term local exposure to appropriate drug concentrations. We propose a novel treatment method using non-woven sheets to achieve this goal. Poly(L-lactic acid) non-woven sheets containing gemcitabine (GEM) were prepared, and GEM sustained release from this delivery system was investigated. Approximately 35% of the GEM dose was released within 30 d. For in vitro evaluation, we conducted a cell growth inhibition test using transwell assays, and significant inhibition of cell growth was observed. The antitumor effects of subcutaneously implanted GEM-containing non-woven sheets were evaluated in mice bearing subcutaneous Panc02 cells, and it was established that the sheets inhibited tumor growth for approximately 28 d. These results suggest the usefulness of GEM-containing non-woven sheets in pancreatic cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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14 pages, 2269 KiB  
Article
Composite Nanocellulose Fibers-Based Hydrogels Loading Clindamycin HCl with Ca2+ and Citric Acid as Crosslinking Agents for Pharmaceutical Applications
by Pichapar O-chongpian, Mingkwan Na Takuathung, Chuda Chittasupho, Warintorn Ruksiriwanich, Tanpong Chaiwarit, Phornsawat Baipaywad and Pensak Jantrawut
Polymers 2021, 13(24), 4423; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13244423 - 16 Dec 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2645
Abstract
Biocomposite hydrogels based on nanocellulose fibers (CNFs), low methoxy pectin (LMP), and sodium alginate (SA) were fabricated via the chemical crosslinking technique. The selected CNFs-based hydrogels were loaded with clindamycin hydrochloride (CM), an effective antibiotic as a model drug. The properties of the [...] Read more.
Biocomposite hydrogels based on nanocellulose fibers (CNFs), low methoxy pectin (LMP), and sodium alginate (SA) were fabricated via the chemical crosslinking technique. The selected CNFs-based hydrogels were loaded with clindamycin hydrochloride (CM), an effective antibiotic as a model drug. The properties of the selected CNFs-based hydrogels loaded CM were characterized. The results showed that CNFs-based hydrogels composed of CNFs/LMP/SA at 1:1:1 and 2:0.5:0.5 mass ratios exhibited high drug content, suitable gel content, and high maximum swelling degree. In vitro assessment of cell viability revealed that the CM-incorporated composite CNFs-based hydrogels using calcium ion and citric acid as crosslinking agents exhibited high cytocompatibility with human keratinocytes cells. In vitro drug release experiment showed the prolonged release of CM and the hydrogel which has a greater CNFs portion (C2P0.5A0.5/Ca + Ci/CM) demonstrated lower drug release than the hydrogel having a lesser CNFs portion (C1P1A1/Ca + Ci/CM). The proportion of hydrophilic materials which were low methoxy pectin and sodium alginate in the matrix system influences drug release. In conclusion, biocomposite CNFs-based hydrogels composed of CNFs/LMP/SA at 1:1:1 and 2:0.5:0.5 mass ratios, loading CM with calcium ion and citric acid as crosslinking agents were successfully developed for the first time, suggesting their potential for pharmaceutical applications, such as a drug delivery system for healing infected wounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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12 pages, 2273 KiB  
Article
WSG, a Glucose-Rich Polysaccharide from Ganoderma lucidum, Combined with Cisplatin Potentiates Inhibition of Lung Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo
by Wei-Lun Qiu, Wei-Hung Hsu, Shu-Ming Tsao, Ai-Jung Tseng, Zhi-Hu Lin, Wei-Jyun Hua, Hsin Yeh, Tzu-En Lin, Chien-Chang Chen, Li-Sheng Chen and Tung-Yi Lin
Polymers 2021, 13(24), 4353; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13244353 - 13 Dec 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2864
Abstract
Lung cancer has the highest global mortality rate of any cancer. Although targeted therapeutic drugs are commercially available, the common drug resistance and insensitivity to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, a common clinical treatment for lung cancer, have prompted active research on alternative lung cancer therapies [...] Read more.
Lung cancer has the highest global mortality rate of any cancer. Although targeted therapeutic drugs are commercially available, the common drug resistance and insensitivity to cisplatin-based chemotherapy, a common clinical treatment for lung cancer, have prompted active research on alternative lung cancer therapies and methods for mitigating cisplatin-related complications. In this study, we investigated the effect of WSG, a glucose-rich, water soluble polysaccharide derived from Ganoderma lucidum, on cisplatin-based treatment for lung cancer. Murine Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC1) cells were injected into C57BL/6 mice subcutaneously and through the tail vein. The combined administration of WSG and cisplatin effectively inhibited tumor growth and the formation of metastatic nodules in the lung tissue of the mice. Moreover, WSG increased the survival rate of mice receiving cisplatin. Co-treatment with WSG and cisplatin induced a synergistic inhibitory effect on the growth of lung cancer cells, enhancing the apoptotic responses mediated by cisplatin. WSG also reduced the cytotoxic effect of cisplatin in both macrophages and normal lung fibroblasts. Our findings suggest that WSG can increase the therapeutic effectiveness of cisplatin. In clinical settings, WSG may be used as an adjuvant or supplementary agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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23 pages, 5179 KiB  
Article
Wrinkling on Stimuli-Responsive Functional Polymer Surfaces as a Promising Strategy for the Preparation of Effective Antibacterial/Antibiofouling Surfaces
by Carmen M. González-Henríquez, Fernando E. Rodríguez-Umanzor, Matías N. Alegría-Gómez, Claudio A. Terraza-Inostroza, Enrique Martínez-Campos, Raquel Cue-López, Mauricio A. Sarabia-Vallejos, Claudio García-Herrera and Juan Rodríguez-Hernández
Polymers 2021, 13(23), 4262; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13234262 - 06 Dec 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2723
Abstract
Biocompatible smart interfaces play a crucial role in biomedical or tissue engineering applications, where their ability to actively change their conformation or physico-chemical properties permits finely tuning their surface attributes. Polyelectrolytes, such as acrylic acid, are a particular type of smart polymers that [...] Read more.
Biocompatible smart interfaces play a crucial role in biomedical or tissue engineering applications, where their ability to actively change their conformation or physico-chemical properties permits finely tuning their surface attributes. Polyelectrolytes, such as acrylic acid, are a particular type of smart polymers that present pH responsiveness. This work aims to fabricate stable hydrogel films with reversible pH responsiveness that could spontaneously form wrinkled surface patterns. For this purpose, the photosensitive reaction mixtures were deposited via spin-coating over functionalized glasses. Following vacuum, UV, or either plasma treatments, it is possible to spontaneously form wrinkles, which could increase cell adherence. The pH responsiveness of the material was evaluated, observing an abrupt variation in the film thickness as a function of the environmental pH. Moreover, the presence of the carboxylic acid functional groups at the interface was evidenced by analyzing the adsorption/desorption capacity using methylene blue as a cationic dye model. The results demonstrated that increasing the acrylic acid in the microwrinkled hydrogel effectively improved the adsorption and release capacity and the ability of the carboxylic groups to establish ionic interactions with methylene blue. Finally, the role of the acrylic acid groups and the surface topography (smooth or wrinkled) on the final antibacterial properties were investigated, demonstrating their efficacy against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria model strains (E. coli and S. Aureus). According to our findings, microwrinkled hydrogels presented excellent antibacterial properties improving the results obtained for planar (smooth) hydrogels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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15 pages, 37339 KiB  
Article
Characterisation and Modelling of an Artificial Lens Capsule Mimicking Accommodation of Human Eyes
by Huidong Wei, James S. Wolffsohn, Otavio Gomes de Oliveira and Leon N. Davies
Polymers 2021, 13(22), 3916; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13223916 - 12 Nov 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2144
Abstract
A synthetic material of silicone rubber was used to construct an artificial lens capsule (ALC) in order to replicate the biomechanical behaviour of human lens capsule. The silicone rubber was characterised by monotonic and cyclic mechanical tests to reveal its hyper-elastic behaviour under [...] Read more.
A synthetic material of silicone rubber was used to construct an artificial lens capsule (ALC) in order to replicate the biomechanical behaviour of human lens capsule. The silicone rubber was characterised by monotonic and cyclic mechanical tests to reveal its hyper-elastic behaviour under uniaxial tension and simple shear as well as the rate independence. A hyper-elastic constitutive model was calibrated by the testing data and incorporated into finite element analysis (FEA). An experimental setup to simulate eye focusing (accommodation) of ALC was performed to validate the FEA model by evaluating the shape change and reaction force. The characterisation and modelling approach provided an insight into the intrinsic behaviour of materials, addressing the inflating pressure and effective stretch of ALC under the focusing process. The proposed methodology offers a virtual testing environment mimicking human capsules for the variability of dimension and stiffness, which will facilitate the verification of new ophthalmic prototype such as accommodating intraocular lenses (AIOLs). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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14 pages, 3411 KiB  
Article
Biopolymer Hydrogel Scaffolds Containing Doxorubicin as A Localized Drug Delivery System for Inhibiting Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation
by Chuda Chittasupho, Jakrapong Angklomklew, Thanu Thongnopkoon, Wongwit Senavongse, Pensak Jantrawut and Warintorn Ruksiriwanich
Polymers 2021, 13(20), 3580; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13203580 - 17 Oct 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2176
Abstract
A hydrogel scaffold is a localized drug delivery system that can maintain the therapeutic level of drug concentration at the tumor site. In this study, the biopolymer hydrogel scaffold encapsulating doxorubicin was fabricated from gelatin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and gelatin/sodium carboxymethyl cellulose mixture [...] Read more.
A hydrogel scaffold is a localized drug delivery system that can maintain the therapeutic level of drug concentration at the tumor site. In this study, the biopolymer hydrogel scaffold encapsulating doxorubicin was fabricated from gelatin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and gelatin/sodium carboxymethyl cellulose mixture using a lyophilization technique. The effects of a crosslinker on scaffold morphology and pore size were determined using scanning electron microscopy. The encapsulation efficiency and the release profile of doxorubicin from the hydrogel scaffolds were determined using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The anti-proliferative effect of the scaffolds against the lung cancer cell line was investigated using an MTT assay. The results showed that scaffolds made from different types of natural polymer had different pore configurations and pore sizes. All scaffolds had high encapsulation efficiency and drug-controlled release profiles. The viability and proliferation of A549 cells, treated with gelatin, gelatin/SCMC, and SCMC scaffolds containing doxorubicin significantly decreased compared with control. These hydrogel scaffolds might provide a promising approach for developing a superior localized drug delivery system to kill lung cancer cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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16 pages, 5034 KiB  
Article
pH-Responsive Succinoglycan-Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogels with Highly Improved Mechanical Strength for Controlled Drug Delivery Systems
by Younghyun Shin, Dajung Kim, Yiluo Hu, Yohan Kim, In Ki Hong, Moo Sung Kim and Seunho Jung
Polymers 2021, 13(18), 3197; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13183197 - 21 Sep 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4050
Abstract
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based hydrogels are generally superabsorbent and biocompatible, but their low mechanical strength limits their application. To overcome these drawbacks, we used bacterial succinoglycan (SG), a biocompatible natural polysaccharide, as a double crosslinking strategy to produce novel interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels [...] Read more.
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-based hydrogels are generally superabsorbent and biocompatible, but their low mechanical strength limits their application. To overcome these drawbacks, we used bacterial succinoglycan (SG), a biocompatible natural polysaccharide, as a double crosslinking strategy to produce novel interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels in a non-bead form. These new SG/CMC-based IPN hydrogels significantly increased the mechanical strength while maintaining the characteristic superabsorbent property of CMC-based hydrogels. The SG/CMC gels exhibited an 8.5-fold improvement in compressive stress and up to a 6.5-fold higher storage modulus (G′) at the same strain compared to the CMC alone gels. Furthermore, SG/CMC gels not only showed pH-controlled drug release for 5-fluorouracil but also did not show any cytotoxicity to HEK-293 cells. This suggests that SG/CMC hydrogels could be used as future biomedical biomaterials for drug delivery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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17 pages, 4540 KiB  
Article
pH and Reduction Dual-Responsive Bi-Drugs Conjugated Dextran Assemblies for Combination Chemotherapy and In Vitro Evaluation
by Xiukun Xue, Yanjuan Wu, Xiao Xu, Ben Xu, Zhaowei Chen and Tianduo Li
Polymers 2021, 13(9), 1515; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13091515 - 08 May 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2806
Abstract
Polymeric prodrugs, synthesized by conjugating chemotherapeutic agents to functional polymers, have been extensively investigated and employed for safer and more efficacious cancer therapy. By rational design, a pH and reduction dual-sensitive dextran-di-drugs conjugate (oDex-g-Pt+DOX) was synthesized by the covalent conjugation of Pt (IV) [...] Read more.
Polymeric prodrugs, synthesized by conjugating chemotherapeutic agents to functional polymers, have been extensively investigated and employed for safer and more efficacious cancer therapy. By rational design, a pH and reduction dual-sensitive dextran-di-drugs conjugate (oDex-g-Pt+DOX) was synthesized by the covalent conjugation of Pt (IV) prodrug and doxorubicin (DOX) to an oxidized dextran (oDex). Pt (IV) prodrug and DOX were linked by the versatile efficient esterification reactions and Schiff base reaction, respectively. oDex-g-Pt+DOX could self-assemble into nanoparticles with an average diameter at around 180 nm. The acidic and reductive (GSH) environment induced degradation and drug release behavior of the resulting nanoparticles (oDex-g-Pt+DOX NPs) were systematically investigated by optical experiment, DLS analysis, TEM measurement, and in vitro drugs release experiment. Effective cellular uptake of the oDex-g-Pt+DOX NPs was identified by the human cervical carcinoma HeLa cells via confocal laser scanning microscopy. Furthermore, oDex-g-Pt+DOX NPs displayed a comparable antiproliferative activity than the simple combination of free cisplatin and DOX (Cis+DOX) as the extension of time. More importantly, oDex-g-Pt+DOX NPs exhibited remarkable reversal ability of tumor resistance compared to the cisplatin in cisplatin-resistant lung carcinoma A549 cells. Take advantage of the acidic and reductive microenvironment of tumors, this smart polymer-dual-drugs conjugate could serve as a promising and effective nanomedicine for combination chemotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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14 pages, 2099 KiB  
Article
Gram Scale Synthesis of Dual-Responsive Dendritic Polyglycerol Sulfate as Drug Delivery System
by Felix Reisbeck, Alexander Ozimkovski, Mariam Cherri, Mathias Dimde, Elisa Quaas, Ehsan Mohammadifar, Katharina Achazi and Rainer Haag
Polymers 2021, 13(6), 982; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13060982 - 23 Mar 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2862
Abstract
Biocompatible polymers with the ability to load and release a cargo at the site of action in a smart response to stimuli have attracted great attention in the field of drug delivery and cancer therapy. In this work, we synthesize a dual-responsive dendritic [...] Read more.
Biocompatible polymers with the ability to load and release a cargo at the site of action in a smart response to stimuli have attracted great attention in the field of drug delivery and cancer therapy. In this work, we synthesize a dual-responsive dendritic polyglycerol sulfate (DR-dPGS) drug delivery system by copolymerization of glycidol, ε-caprolactone and an epoxide monomer bearing a disulfide bond (SSG), followed by sulfation of terminal hydroxyl groups of the copolymer. The effect of different catalysts, including Lewis acids and organic bases, on the molecular weight, monomer content and polymer structure was investigated. The degradation of the polymer backbone was proven in presence of reducing agents and candida antarctica Lipase B (CALB) enzyme, which results in the cleavage of the disulfides and ester bonds, respectively. The hydrophobic anticancer drug Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in the polymer and the kinetic assessment showed an enhanced drug release with glutathione (GSH) or CALB as compared to controls and a synergistic effect of a combination of both stimuli. Cell uptake was studied by using confocal laser scanning microscopy with HeLa cells and showed the uptake of the Dox-loaded carriers and the release of the drug into the nucleus. Cytotoxicity tests with three different cancer cell lines showed good tolerability of the polymers of as high concentrations as 1 mg mL−1, while cancer cell growth was efficiently inhibited by DR-dPGS@Dox. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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16 pages, 22886 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Influence of Dyes Physico-Chemical Properties on Incorporation and Release Kinetics in Silk Fibroin Matrices
by Bruno Thorihara Tomoda, Murilo Santos Pacheco, Yasmin Broso Abranches, Juliane Viganó, Fabiana Perrechil and Mariana Agostini De Moraes
Polymers 2021, 13(5), 798; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13050798 - 05 Mar 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1859
Abstract
Silk fibroin (SF) is a promising and versatile biodegradable protein for biomedical applications. This study aimed to develop a prolonged release device by incorporating SF microparticles containing dyes into SF hydrogels. The influence of dyes on incorporation and release kinetics in SF based [...] Read more.
Silk fibroin (SF) is a promising and versatile biodegradable protein for biomedical applications. This study aimed to develop a prolonged release device by incorporating SF microparticles containing dyes into SF hydrogels. The influence of dyes on incorporation and release kinetics in SF based devices were evaluated regarding their hydrophilicity, molar mass, and cationic/anionic character. Hydrophobic and cationic dyes presented high encapsulation efficiency, probably related to electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions with SF. The addition of SF microparticles in SF hydrogels was an effective method to prolong the release, increasing the release time by 10-fold. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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14 pages, 2281 KiB  
Article
Effects of Two Melt Extrusion Based Additive Manufacturing Technologies and Common Sterilization Methods on the Properties of a Medical Grade PLGA Copolymer
by Marion Gradwohl, Feng Chai, Julien Payen, Pierre Guerreschi, Philippe Marchetti and Nicolas Blanchemain
Polymers 2021, 13(4), 572; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13040572 - 14 Feb 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3633
Abstract
Although bioabsorbable polymers have garnered increasing attention because of their potential in tissue engineering applications, to our knowledge there are only a few bioabsorbable 3D printed medical devices on the market thus far. In this study, we assessed the processability of medical grade [...] Read more.
Although bioabsorbable polymers have garnered increasing attention because of their potential in tissue engineering applications, to our knowledge there are only a few bioabsorbable 3D printed medical devices on the market thus far. In this study, we assessed the processability of medical grade Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) Acid (PLGA)85:15 via two additive manufacturing technologies: Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and Direct Pellet Printing (DPP) to highlight the least destructive technology towards PLGA. To quantify PLGA degradation, its molecular weight (gel permeation chromatography (GPC)) as well as its thermal properties (differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)) were evaluated at each processing step, including sterilization with conventional methods (ethylene oxide, gamma, and beta irradiation). Results show that 3D printing of PLGA on a DPP printer significantly decreased the number-average molecular weight (Mn) to the greatest extent (26% Mn loss, p < 0.0001) as it applies a longer residence time and higher shear stress compared to classic FFF (19% Mn loss, p < 0.0001). Among all sterilization methods tested, ethylene oxide seems to be the most appropriate, as it leads to no significant changes in PLGA properties. After sterilization, all samples were considered to be non-toxic, as cell viability was above 70% compared to the control, indicating that this manufacturing route could be used for the development of bioabsorbable medical devices. Based on our observations, we recommend using FFF printing and ethylene oxide sterilization to produce PLGA medical devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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15 pages, 3657 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Bio-Inspired Electro-Conductive Soy Protein Films
by Pedro Guerrero, Tania Garrido, Itxaso Garcia-Orue, Edorta Santos-Vizcaino, Manoli Igartua, Rosa Maria Hernandez and Koro de la Caba
Polymers 2021, 13(3), 416; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13030416 - 28 Jan 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2387
Abstract
Protein-based conductive materials are gaining attention as alternative components of electronic devices for value-added applications. In this regard, soy protein isolate (SPI) was processed by extrusion in order to obtain SPI pellets, subsequently molded into SPI films by hot pressing, resulting in homogeneous [...] Read more.
Protein-based conductive materials are gaining attention as alternative components of electronic devices for value-added applications. In this regard, soy protein isolate (SPI) was processed by extrusion in order to obtain SPI pellets, subsequently molded into SPI films by hot pressing, resulting in homogeneous and transparent films, as shown by scanning electron microscopy and UV-vis spectroscopy analyses, respectively. During processing, SPI denatured and refolded through intermolecular interactions with glycerol, causing a major exposition of tryptophan residues and fluorescence emission, affecting charge distribution and electron transport properties. Regarding electrical conductivity, the value found (9.889 × 10−4 S/m) is characteristic of electrical semiconductors, such as silicon, and higher than that found for other natural polymers. Additionally, the behavior of the films in contact with water was analyzed, indicating a controlled swelling and a hydrolytic surface, which is of great relevance for cell adhesion and spreading. In fact, cytotoxicity studies showed that the developed SPI films were biocompatible, according to the guidelines for the biological evaluation of medical devices. Therefore, these SPI films are uniquely suited as bioelectronics because they conduct both ionic and electronic currents, which is not accessible for the traditional metallic conductors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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15 pages, 13086 KiB  
Article
A Full Set of In Vitro Assays in Chitosan/Tween 80 Microspheres Loaded with Magnetite Nanoparticles
by Jorge A Roacho-Pérez, Kassandra O Rodríguez-Aguillón, Hugo L Gallardo-Blanco, María R Velazco-Campos, Karla V Sosa-Cruz, Perla E García-Casillas, Luz Rojas-Patlán, Margarita Sánchez-Domínguez, Ana M Rivas-Estilla, Víctor Gómez-Flores, Christian Chapa-Gonzalez and Celia N Sánchez-Domínguez
Polymers 2021, 13(3), 400; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13030400 - 27 Jan 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3320
Abstract
Microspheres have been proposed for different medical applications, such as the delivery of therapeutic proteins. The first step, before evaluating the functionality of a protein delivery system, is to evaluate their biological safety. In this work, we developed chitosan/Tween 80 microspheres loaded with [...] Read more.
Microspheres have been proposed for different medical applications, such as the delivery of therapeutic proteins. The first step, before evaluating the functionality of a protein delivery system, is to evaluate their biological safety. In this work, we developed chitosan/Tween 80 microspheres loaded with magnetite nanoparticles and evaluated cell damage. The formation and physical–chemical properties of the microspheres were determined by FT-IR, Raman, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and SEM. Cell damage was evaluated by a full set of in vitro assays using a non-cancerous cell line, human erythrocytes, and human lymphocytes. At the same time, to know if these microspheres can load proteins over their surface, bovine serum albumin (BSA) immobilization was measured. Results showed 7 nm magnetite nanoparticles loaded into chitosan/Tween 80 microspheres with average sizes of 1.431 µm. At concentrations from 1 to 100 µg/mL, there was no evidence of changes in mitochondrial metabolism, cell morphology, membrane rupture, cell cycle, nor sister chromatid exchange formation. For each microgram of microspheres 1.8 µg of BSA was immobilized. The result provides the fundamental understanding of the in vitro biological behavior, and safety, of developed microspheres. Additionally, this set of assays can be helpful for researchers to evaluate different nano and microparticles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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18 pages, 3331 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Glycerylphytate Crosslinked Semi- and Interpenetrated Polymer Membranes of Hyaluronic Acid and Chitosan for Tissue Engineering
by Ana Mora-Boza, Elena López-Ruiz, María Luisa López-Donaire, Gema Jiménez, María Rosa Aguilar, Juan Antonio Marchal, José Luis Pedraz, Blanca Vázquez-Lasa, Julio San Román and Patricia Gálvez-Martín
Polymers 2020, 12(11), 2661; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12112661 - 11 Nov 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2737
Abstract
In the present study, semi- and interpenetrated polymer network (IPN) systems based on hyaluronic acid (HA) and chitosan using ionic crosslinking of chitosan with a bioactive crosslinker, glycerylphytate (G1Phy), and UV irradiation of methacrylate were developed, characterized and evaluated as potential [...] Read more.
In the present study, semi- and interpenetrated polymer network (IPN) systems based on hyaluronic acid (HA) and chitosan using ionic crosslinking of chitosan with a bioactive crosslinker, glycerylphytate (G1Phy), and UV irradiation of methacrylate were developed, characterized and evaluated as potential supports for tissue engineering. Semi- and IPN systems showed significant differences between them regarding composition, morphology, and mechanical properties after physicochemical characterization. Dual crosslinking process of IPN systems enhanced HA retention and mechanical properties, providing also flatter and denser surfaces in comparison to semi-IPN membranes. The biological performance was evaluated on primary human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and the systems revealed no cytotoxic effect. The excellent biocompatibility of the systems was demonstrated by large spreading areas of hMSCs on hydrogel membrane surfaces. Cell proliferation increased over time for all the systems, being significantly enhanced in the semi-IPN, which suggested that these polymeric membranes could be proposed as an effective promoter system of tissue repair. In this sense, the developed crosslinked biomimetic and biodegradable membranes can provide a stable and amenable environment for hMSCs support and growth with potential applications in the biomedical field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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20 pages, 4280 KiB  
Article
Formulation and Evaluation of Microwave-Modified Chitosan-Curcumin Nanoparticles—A Promising Nanomaterials Platform for Skin Tissue Regeneration Applications Following Burn Wounds
by Hafiz Muhammad Basit, Mohd Cairul Iqbal Mohd Amin, Shiow-Fern Ng, Haliza Katas, Shefaat Ullah Shah and Nauman Rahim Khan
Polymers 2020, 12(11), 2608; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12112608 - 06 Nov 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 3610
Abstract
Improved physicochemical properties of chitosan-curcumin nanoparticulate carriers using microwave technology for skin burn wound application are reported. The microwave modified low molecular weight chitosan variant was used for nanoparticle formulation by ionic gelation method nanoparticles analyzed for their physicochemical properties. The antimicrobial activity [...] Read more.
Improved physicochemical properties of chitosan-curcumin nanoparticulate carriers using microwave technology for skin burn wound application are reported. The microwave modified low molecular weight chitosan variant was used for nanoparticle formulation by ionic gelation method nanoparticles analyzed for their physicochemical properties. The antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures, cytotoxicity and cell migration using human dermal fibroblasts—an adult cell line—were studied. The microwave modified chitosan variant had significantly reduced molecular weight, increased degree of deacetylation and decreased specific viscosity. The nanoparticles were nano-sized with high positive charge and good dispersibility with entrapment efficiency and drug content in between 99% and 100%, demonstrating almost no drug loss. Drug release was found to be sustained following Fickian the diffusion mechanism for drug release with higher cumulative drug release observed for formulation (F)2. The microwave treatment does not render a destructive effect on the chitosan molecule with the drug embedded in the core of nanoparticles. The optimized formulation precluded selected bacterial strain colonization, exerted no cytotoxic effect, and promoted cell migration within 24 h post application in comparison to blank and/or control application. Microwave modified low molecular weight chitosan-curcumin nanoparticles hold potential in delivery of curcumin into the skin to effectively treat skin manifestations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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17 pages, 3629 KiB  
Article
3D Printing of a Reactive Hydrogel Bio-Ink Using a Static Mixing Tool
by María Puertas-Bartolomé, Małgorzata K. Włodarczyk-Biegun, Aránzazu del Campo, Blanca Vázquez-Lasa and Julio San Román
Polymers 2020, 12(9), 1986; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12091986 - 31 Aug 2020
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7073
Abstract
Hydrogel-based bio-inks have recently attracted more attention for 3D printing applications in tissue engineering due to their remarkable intrinsic properties, such as a cell supporting environment. However, their usually weak mechanical properties lead to poor printability and low stability of the obtained structures. [...] Read more.
Hydrogel-based bio-inks have recently attracted more attention for 3D printing applications in tissue engineering due to their remarkable intrinsic properties, such as a cell supporting environment. However, their usually weak mechanical properties lead to poor printability and low stability of the obtained structures. To obtain good shape fidelity, current approaches based on extrusion printing use high viscosity solutions, which can compromise cell viability. This paper presents a novel bio-printing methodology based on a dual-syringe system with a static mixing tool that allows in situ crosslinking of a two-component hydrogel-based ink in the presence of living cells. The reactive hydrogel system consists of carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCh) and partially oxidized hyaluronic acid (HAox) that undergo fast self-covalent crosslinking via Schiff base formation. This new approach allows us to use low viscosity solutions since in situ gelation provides the appropriate structural integrity to maintain the printed shape. The proposed bio-ink formulation was optimized to match crosslinking kinetics with the printing process and multi-layered 3D bio-printed scaffolds were successfully obtained. Printed scaffolds showed moderate swelling, good biocompatibility with embedded cells, and were mechanically stable after 14 days of the cell culture. We envision that this straightforward, powerful, and generalizable printing approach can be used for a wide range of materials, growth factors, or cell types, to be employed for soft tissue regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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14 pages, 5903 KiB  
Article
Development of Biocomposite Polymeric Systems Loaded with Antibacterial Nanoparticles for the Coating of Polypropylene Biomaterials
by Mar Fernández-Gutiérrez, Bárbara Pérez-Köhler, Selma Benito-Martínez, Francisca García-Moreno, Gemma Pascual, Luis García-Fernández, María Rosa Aguilar, Blanca Vázquez-Lasa and Juan Manuel Bellón
Polymers 2020, 12(8), 1829; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12081829 - 15 Aug 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3474
Abstract
The development of a biocomposite polymeric system for the antibacterial coating of polypropylene mesh materials for hernia repair is reported. Coatings were constituted by a film of chitosan containing randomly dispersed poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with chlorhexidine [...] Read more.
The development of a biocomposite polymeric system for the antibacterial coating of polypropylene mesh materials for hernia repair is reported. Coatings were constituted by a film of chitosan containing randomly dispersed poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with chlorhexidine or rifampicin. The chlorhexidine-loaded system exhibited a burst release during the first day reaching the release of the loaded drug in three or four days, whereas rifampicin was gradually released for at least 11 days. Both antibacterial coated meshes were highly active against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis (106 CFU/mL), displaying zones of inhibition that lasted for 7 days (chlorhexidine) or 14 days (rifampicin). Apparently, both systems inhibited bacterial growth in the surrounding environment, as well as avoided bacterial adhesion to the mesh surface. These polymeric coatings loaded with biodegradable nanoparticles containing antimicrobials effectively precluded bacterial colonization of the biomaterial. Both biocomposites showed adequate performance and thus could have potential application in the design of antimicrobial coatings for the prophylactic coating of polypropylene materials for hernia repair. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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Review

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34 pages, 2815 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances on Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels Based on Tissue-Derived ECMs and Their Components: Towards Improving Functionality for Tissue Engineering and Controlled Drug Delivery
by Julian A. Serna, Laura Rueda-Gensini, Daniela N. Céspedes-Valenzuela, Javier Cifuentes, Juan C. Cruz and Carolina Muñoz-Camargo
Polymers 2021, 13(19), 3263; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13193263 - 25 Sep 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4616
Abstract
Due to their highly hydrophilic nature and compositional versatility, hydrogels have assumed a protagonic role in the development of physiologically relevant tissues for several biomedical applications, such as in vivo tissue replacement or regeneration and in vitro disease modeling. By forming interconnected polymeric [...] Read more.
Due to their highly hydrophilic nature and compositional versatility, hydrogels have assumed a protagonic role in the development of physiologically relevant tissues for several biomedical applications, such as in vivo tissue replacement or regeneration and in vitro disease modeling. By forming interconnected polymeric networks, hydrogels can be loaded with therapeutic agents, small molecules, or cells to deliver them locally to specific tissues or act as scaffolds for hosting cellular development. Hydrogels derived from decellularized extracellular matrices (dECMs), in particular, have gained significant attention in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their inherently high biomimetic capabilities and endowment of a wide variety of bioactive cues capable of directing cellular behavior. However, these hydrogels often exhibit poor mechanical stability, and their biological properties alone are not enough to direct the development of tissue constructs with functional phenotypes. This review highlights the different ways in which external stimuli (e.g., light, thermal, mechanical, electric, magnetic, and acoustic) have been employed to improve the performance of dECM-based hydrogels for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. Specifically, we outline how these stimuli have been implemented to improve their mechanical stability, tune their microarchitectural characteristics, facilitate tissue morphogenesis and enable precise control of drug release profiles. The strategic coupling of the bioactive features of dECM-based hydrogels with these stimulation schemes grants considerable advances in the development of functional hydrogels for a wide variety of applications within these fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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26 pages, 3604 KiB  
Review
Emerging Biofabrication Techniques: A Review on Natural Polymers for Biomedical Applications
by María Puertas-Bartolomé, Ana Mora-Boza and Luis García-Fernández
Polymers 2021, 13(8), 1209; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13081209 - 08 Apr 2021
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 5765
Abstract
Natural polymers have been widely used for biomedical applications in recent decades. They offer the advantages of resembling the extracellular matrix of native tissues and retaining biochemical cues and properties necessary to enhance their biocompatibility, so they usually improve the cellular attachment and [...] Read more.
Natural polymers have been widely used for biomedical applications in recent decades. They offer the advantages of resembling the extracellular matrix of native tissues and retaining biochemical cues and properties necessary to enhance their biocompatibility, so they usually improve the cellular attachment and behavior and avoid immunological reactions. Moreover, they offer a rapid degradability through natural enzymatic or chemical processes. However, natural polymers present poor mechanical strength, which frequently makes the manipulation processes difficult. Recent advances in biofabrication, 3D printing, microfluidics, and cell-electrospinning allow the manufacturing of complex natural polymer matrixes with biophysical and structural properties similar to those of the extracellular matrix. In addition, these techniques offer the possibility of incorporating different cell lines into the fabrication process, a revolutionary strategy broadly explored in recent years to produce cell-laden scaffolds that can better mimic the properties of functional tissues. In this review, the use of 3D printing, microfluidics, and electrospinning approaches has been extensively investigated for the biofabrication of naturally derived polymer scaffolds with encapsulated cells intended for biomedical applications (e.g., cell therapies, bone and dental grafts, cardiovascular or musculoskeletal tissue regeneration, and wound healing). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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19 pages, 1583 KiB  
Review
Polymer Based Bioadhesive Biomaterials for Medical Application—A Perspective of Redefining Healthcare System Management
by Nibedita Saha, Nabanita Saha, Tomas Sáha, Ebru Toksoy Öner, Urška Vrabič Brodnjak, Heinz Redl, Janek von Byern and Petr Sáha
Polymers 2020, 12(12), 3015; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym12123015 - 16 Dec 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3668
Abstract
This article deliberates about the importance of polymer-based bioadhesive biomaterials’ medical application in healthcare and in redefining healthcare management. Nowadays, the application of bioadhesion in the health sector is one of the great interests for various researchers, due to recent advances in their [...] Read more.
This article deliberates about the importance of polymer-based bioadhesive biomaterials’ medical application in healthcare and in redefining healthcare management. Nowadays, the application of bioadhesion in the health sector is one of the great interests for various researchers, due to recent advances in their formulation development. Actually, this area of study is considered as an active multidisciplinary research approach, where engineers, scientists (including chemists, physicists, biologists, and medical experts), material producers and manufacturers combine their knowledge in order to provide better healthcare. Moreover, while discussing the implications of value-based healthcare, it is necessary to mention that health comprises three main domains, namely, physical, mental, and social health, which not only prioritize the quality healthcare, but also enable us to measure the outcomes of medical interventions. In addition, this conceptual article provides an understanding of the consequences of the natural or synthetic polymer-based bioadhesion of biomaterials, and its significance for redefining healthcare management as a novel approach. Furthermore, the research assumptions highlight that the quality healthcare concept has recently become a burning topic, wherein healthcare service providers, private research institutes, government authorities, public service boards, associations and academics have taken the initiative to restructure the healthcare system to create value for patients and increase their satisfaction, and lead ultimately to a healthier society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Polymers for Biomedical Applications)
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