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Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application
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Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (28 February 2022) | Viewed by 53160

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Wen-Cheng Chen

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Fiber and Composite Materials, Feng Chia University, Taichung 407, Taiwan
Interests: biomaterials; material analysis; polymer chemistry; medical engineering; functional fiber composites; nanomaterials; tissue engineering; hydrogels
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Very recently, nanomaterials have attracted a lot of attention in cross-academic fields, including engineering, chemistry, solid-state physics, biotechnology, and biomedicine. The most important features of these nanomaterials are their polarity, modification capability, and property diversity. Therefore, the application of nanomaterials in the clinical field revokes many revolutionary solutions in tissue reconstruction when the tissue is defective. In addition, nanomaterials are also useful in developing multi-functionalized drugs, antibacterial products, etc. The nanoparticle platforms that have been extensively explored for biomedical applications are predominantly either purely inorganic or organic materials. Hybrid nanoparticles or organic composites with inorganics can not only retain the beneficial features of both inorganic and organic nanomaterials but also possess unique advantages over the other two types. The changeable material design can derive a variety of clinical treatment strategies.

This Special Issue focuses on the use of organic/inorganic or hybrid nanomaterials for biomedical applications. We invite full papers, communications, and reviews. We would like to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue. Research topics of interest cover one or several of the topics included in (or related to) the keywords below.

Prof. Dr. Wen-Cheng Chen
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

  • Biomaterials
  • Composites
  • Nanomaterials
  • Micelles
  • Hydrogels
  • Biodegradable
  • Apatite
  • Drug delivery
  • Slow release
  • Scaffold
  • Tissue regeneration
  • Biocompatibility
  • Delivery
  • Antibacterial
  • Therapy
  • Nanoparticle manufacture and processing

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Published Papers (20 papers)

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13 pages, 5033 KiB  
Article
Functional Hollow Ceramic Microsphere/Flexible Polyurethane Foam Composites with a Cell Structure: Mechanical Property and Sound Absorptivity
by Jia-Horng Lin, Po-Yang Hsu, Chen-Hung Huang, Mei-Feng Lai, Bing-Chiuan Shiu and Ching-Wen Lou
Polymers 2022, 14(5), 913; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14050913 - 25 Feb 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2406
Abstract
Noise pollution is the primary environmental issue that is increasingly deteriorated with the progress of modern industry and transportation; hence, the purpose of this study is to create flexible PU foam with mechanical properties and sound absorption. In this study, hollow ceramic microsphere [...] Read more.
Noise pollution is the primary environmental issue that is increasingly deteriorated with the progress of modern industry and transportation; hence, the purpose of this study is to create flexible PU foam with mechanical properties and sound absorption. In this study, hollow ceramic microsphere (HCM) is used as the filler of polyurethane (PU) foam for mechanical reinforcement. The sound absorption efficacy of PU pores and the hollow attribute of HCM contribute to a synergistic sound absorption effect. HCM-filled PU foam is evaluated in terms of surface characteristic, mechanical properties, and sound absorption as related to the HCM content, determining the optimal functional flexible PU foam. The test results indicate that the presence of HCM strengthens the stability of the cell structure significantly. In addition, the synergistic effect can be proven by a 2.24 times greater mechanical strength and better sound absorption. Specifically, with more HCM, the flexible PU foam exhibits significantly improved sound absorption in high frequencies, suggesting that this study successfully generates functional PU foam with high mechanical properties and high sound absorption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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18 pages, 5454 KiB  
Article
Biodegradable Hydrogel Beads Combined with Calcium Phosphate Bone Cement for Bone Repair: In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization
by Po-Sung Fu, Jen-Chyan Wang, Pei-Ling Lai, Shih-Ming Liu, Ya-Shun Chen, Wen-Cheng Chen and Chun-Cheng Hung
Polymers 2022, 14(3), 505; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14030505 - 27 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2036
Abstract
This study evaluated the in vitro characterizations of biodegradable hydrogel beads with calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC). Commercial fast-setting CPC and hydrogel beads were compared with 25%-volume hydrogel in CPC (C/0.25) in vivo. The histological behaviors and absorption rates of CPC only, hydrogel [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the in vitro characterizations of biodegradable hydrogel beads with calcium phosphate bone cement (CPC). Commercial fast-setting CPC and hydrogel beads were compared with 25%-volume hydrogel in CPC (C/0.25) in vivo. The histological behaviors and absorption rates of CPC only, hydrogel beads, and hydrogel/CPC composite were measured and compared at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. The results indicated that the C/0.25 composite can be molded and does not disintegrate when immersed in the solution, but this delays the phase transition of the CPC into the product in the early reaction process. The osteoprogenitor D1 cell affinity of the C/0.25 composite was equally competitive with that of the CPC-only. Adding hydrogel beads to CPC did not inhibit cell proliferation as well as differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells. In vivo histological evaluations did not indicate any significant difference in the CPC-only, hydrogel-only, and C/0.25 composite after 4 weeks of implantation; however, significantly less residue was observed in the C/0.25 composite relative to the CPC-only after 8 weeks. After 12 weeks of hydrogel beads implantation, the hydrogel degraded substantially, creating vacancies that were subsequently occupied by a large amount of soft tissue. New bone was formed in large quantities in the C/0.25; therefore, the C/0.25 composite is a promising option for a wide range of dental, craniofacial, and orthopedic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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11 pages, 4327 KiB  
Article
Novel Composite Planks Made of Shape Memory Polyurethane Foaming Material with Two-Step Foaming Process
by Jan-Yi Lin, Mei-Chen Lin, Bing-Chiuan Shiu, Ching-Wen Lou, Jia-Horng Lin and Yueh-Sheng Chen
Polymers 2022, 14(2), 275; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14020275 - 11 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1809
Abstract
In this study, shape memory polyurethane (SMP) foaming material is used as the main material that is incorporated with carbon fiber woven fabrics via two-step foaming method, forming sandwich-structured composite planks. The process is simple and efficient and facilitates any composition as required. [...] Read more.
In this study, shape memory polyurethane (SMP) foaming material is used as the main material that is incorporated with carbon fiber woven fabrics via two-step foaming method, forming sandwich-structured composite planks. The process is simple and efficient and facilitates any composition as required. The emphasis of this study is protection performances, involving puncture resistance, buffer absorption, and electromagnetic wave shielding effectiveness. The proposed soft PU foam composite planks consist of the top and bottom PU foam layers and an interlayer of carbon fiber woven fabric. Meanwhile, PU foam is incorporated with carbon staple fibers and an aluminized PET film for reinforcement requirements and electromagnetic wave shielding effectiveness, respectively. Based on the test results, the two-step foaming process can provide the PU foam composite planks with excellent buffer absorption, puncture resistance, and electromagnetic wave shielding effectiveness; therefore, the proposed composite planks contribute a novel structure composition to SMP, enabling it to be used as a protective composite. In addition, the composites contain conductive material and thus exhibit a greater diversity of functions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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21 pages, 18618 KiB  
Article
Microstructure and Biological Properties of Electrospun In Situ Polymerization of Polycaprolactone-Graft-Polyacrylic Acid Nanofibers and Its Composite Nanofiber Dressings
by Yi-Jen Huang, Chien-Lin Huang, Ruo-Yu Lai, Cheng-Han Zhuang, Wei-Hao Chiu and Kun-Mu Lee
Polymers 2021, 13(23), 4246; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13234246 - 03 Dec 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2705
Abstract
In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL)- and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)-based electrospun nanofibers were prepared for the carriers of antimicrobials and designed composite nanofiber mats for chronic wound care. The PCL- and PAA-based electrospun nanofibers were prepared through in situ polymerization starting from PCL and [...] Read more.
In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL)- and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)-based electrospun nanofibers were prepared for the carriers of antimicrobials and designed composite nanofiber mats for chronic wound care. The PCL- and PAA-based electrospun nanofibers were prepared through in situ polymerization starting from PCL and acrylic acid (AA). Different amounts of AA were introduced to improve the hydrophilicity of the PCL electrospun nanofibers. A compatibilizer and a photoinitiator were then added to the electrospinning solution to form a grafted structure composed of PCL and PAA (PCL-g-PAA). The grafted PAA was mainly located on the surface of a PCL nanofiber. The optimization of the composition of PCL, AA, compatibilizer, and photoinitiator was studied, and the PCL-g-PAA electrospun nanofibers were characterized through scanning electron microscopy and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Results showed that the addition of AA to PCL improved the hydrophilicity of the electrospun PCL nanofibers, and a PCL/AA ratio of 80/20 presented the best composition and had smooth nanofiber morphology. Moreover, poly[2 -(tert-butylaminoethyl) methacrylate]-grafted graphene oxide nanosheets (GO-g-PTA) functioned as an antimicrobial agent and was used as filler for PCL-g-PAA nanofibers in the preparation of composite nanofiber mats, which exerted synergistic effects promoted by the antibacterial properties of GO-g-PTA and the hydrophilicity of PCL-g-PAA electrospun nanofibers. Thus, the composite nanofiber mats had antibacterial properties and absorbed body fluids in the wound healing process, thereby promoting cell proliferation. The biodegradation of the PCL-g-PAA electrospun nanofibers also demonstrated an encouraging result of three-fold weight reduction compared to the neat PCL nanofiber. Our findings may serve as guidelines for the fabrication of electrospun nanofiber composites that can be used mats for chronic wound care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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14 pages, 7686 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Ag@ZIF-8@PP Melt-Blown Nonwoven Fabrics: Air Filter Efficacy and Antibacterial Effect
by Bing-Chiuan Shiu, Ying Zhang, Qianyu Yuan, Jia-Horng Lin, Ching-Wen Lou and Yonggui Li
Polymers 2021, 13(21), 3773; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13213773 - 31 Oct 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2940
Abstract
Serving as matrices, polypropylene (PP) melt-blown nonwoven fabrics with 4% electrostatic electret masterbatch were incorporated with a 6%, 10%, 14%, or 18% phosphorus-nitrogen flame retardant. The test results indicate that the incorporation of the 6% flame retardant prevented PP melt-blown nonwoven fabrics from [...] Read more.
Serving as matrices, polypropylene (PP) melt-blown nonwoven fabrics with 4% electrostatic electret masterbatch were incorporated with a 6%, 10%, 14%, or 18% phosphorus-nitrogen flame retardant. The test results indicate that the incorporation of the 6% flame retardant prevented PP melt-blown nonwoven fabrics from generating a molten drop, which, in turn, hampers the secondary flame source while increasing the fiber diameter ratio. With a combination of 4% electrostatic electret masterbatch and the 6% flame retardant, PP melt-blown nonwoven fabrics were grafted with ZIF-8 and Ag@ZIF-8. The antibacterial effect of ZIF-8 and Ag@ZIF-8 was 40% and 85%, respectively. Moreover, four reinforcing measures were used to provide Ag@ZIF-8 PP melt-blown nonwoven fabrics with synergistic effects, involving lamination, electrostatic electret, and Ag@ZIF-8 grafting, as well as a larger diameter because of the addition of phosphorus-nitrogen flame retardants. As specified in the GB2626-2019 and JIS T8151-2018 respiratory resistance test standards, with a constant 60 Pa, Ag@ZIF-8 PP melt-blown nonwoven membranes were tested for a filter effect against PM 0.3. When the number of lamination layers was five, the filter effect was 88 ± 2.2%, and the respiratory resistance was 51 ± 3.6 Pa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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12 pages, 6123 KiB  
Article
Evaluations of Electrostatic Filtration Efficiency and Antibacterial Efficacy of Antibacterial Electret Polypropylene Filters: Effects of Using Low Molecular Antibacterial Agent as Additive
by Jia-Horng Lin, Ying-Huei Shih, Chen-Hung Huang, Mei-Feng Lai, Shu-An Lee, Bing-Chiuan Shiu and Ching-Wen Lou
Polymers 2021, 13(19), 3303; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13193303 - 27 Sep 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2186
Abstract
In recent years, air filtration has been gaining much attention, and now people are much more concerned about antibacterial filters due to the spreading of COVID-19. The electret polypropylene (PP) nonwoven fabrics possess excellent filtration efficiency but a limited antibacterial effect against S. [...] Read more.
In recent years, air filtration has been gaining much attention, and now people are much more concerned about antibacterial filters due to the spreading of COVID-19. The electret polypropylene (PP) nonwoven fabrics possess excellent filtration efficiency but a limited antibacterial effect against S. aureus and E. coli, and therefore triclosan is used in this study. Serving as an antibacterial agent, triclosan with a low molecular weight is an effective additive for the test results, indicating that the presence of triclosan strengthens the antibacterial effects of the filters. In addition, triclosan also strengthens the PP’s crystallinity, which in turn betters the filtration efficiency of the filters concurrently. Demonstrating powerful filtration and antibacterial performances, the antibacterial electret PP filters are highly qualified for filter applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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15 pages, 29234 KiB  
Article
Effect of pH on the In Vitro Biocompatibility of Surfactant-Assisted Synthesis and Hydrothermal Precipitation of Rod-Shaped Nano-Hydroxyapatite
by Dan-Jae Lin, Hao-Lian Lin, Ssu-Meng Haung, Shih-Ming Liu and Wen-Cheng Chen
Polymers 2021, 13(17), 2994; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13172994 - 03 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2374
Abstract
Given their wide range of biomedical applications, hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles are an attractive material widely used in many fields. Therefore, a simple, inexpensive, and stable process for the synthesis of HA nanoparticles is necessary to meet current needs. Herein, we studied HA synthesis [...] Read more.
Given their wide range of biomedical applications, hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles are an attractive material widely used in many fields. Therefore, a simple, inexpensive, and stable process for the synthesis of HA nanoparticles is necessary to meet current needs. Herein, we studied HA synthesis assisted by four surfactants, namely cation, anion, non-ionic, and zwitterion templates, to verify the synthesis phase, aspect ratio, morphology, and biocompatibility under different environments (i.e., pH 4 and 9) before and after calcination. Results showed that before calcination, the surfactant-free groups could not produce HA but showed an abundant dicalcium phosphate anhydrous (DCPA) phase at pH 4. Except for the anionic group containing a small amount of DCPA, all surfactant-assistant groups presented single-phase HA in acidic and alkaline environments. The diameter of HA synthesized at pH 4 was significantly larger than that of HA synthesized at pH 9, and the effect of aspect ratio changes after calcination was more significant than that before calcination. The uncalcined rod-shaped HA synthesized with a non-ionic template at pH 4 demonstrated excellent cell viability, whereas anionic, cationic, and non-ionic surfactants exhibited biocompatibility only after calcination. At pH 9, non-ionic and uncalcined zwitterion-assisted rod-shaped HA showed excellent biocompatibility. In conclusion, the uncalcined HA rod-shaped nanoparticles synthesized from the non-ionic template at pH 4 and 9 and the zwitterion template at pH 9, as well as all surfactant-assisted HA after calcination, had no cytotoxicity. These tailor-made non-toxic HA types can meet the different requirements of apatite composite materials in biomedical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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23 pages, 4075 KiB  
Article
Bioactivity and Bone Cell Formation with Poly-ε-Caprolactone/Bioceramic 3D Porous Scaffolds
by Po-Kai Juan, Fang-Yu Fan, Wei-Chun Lin, Pei-Bang Liao, Chiung-Fang Huang, Yung-Kang Shen, Muhammad Ruslin and Chen-Han Lee
Polymers 2021, 13(16), 2718; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13162718 - 13 Aug 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2865
Abstract
This study applied poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), a biomedical ceramic powder as an additive (nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) or β-tricalcium diphosphate (β-TCP)), and sodium chloride (NaCl) and ammonium bicarbonate ((NH4)HCO3) as porogens; these stuffs were used as scaffold materials. An improved solvent-casting/particulate-leaching method [...] Read more.
This study applied poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), a biomedical ceramic powder as an additive (nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) or β-tricalcium diphosphate (β-TCP)), and sodium chloride (NaCl) and ammonium bicarbonate ((NH4)HCO3) as porogens; these stuffs were used as scaffold materials. An improved solvent-casting/particulate-leaching method was utilized to fabricate 3D porous scaffolds. In this study we examined the physical properties (elastic modulus, porosity, and contact angle) and degradation properties (weight loss and pH value) of the 3D porous scaffolds. Both nHA and β-TCP improved the mechanical properties (elastic modulus) of the 3D porous scaffolds. The elastic modulus (0.15~1.865 GPa) of the various composite scaffolds matched that of human cancellous bone (0.1~4.5 GPa). Osteoblast-like (MG63) cells were cultured, a microculture tetrazolium test (MTT) was conducted and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the 3D porous scaffolds was determined. Experimental results indicated that both nHA and β-TCP powder improved the hydrophilic properties of the scaffolds. The degradation rate of the scaffolds was accelerated by adding nHA or β-TCP. The MTT and ALP activity tests indicated that the scaffolds with a high ratio of nHA or β-TCP had excellent properties of in vitro biocompatibility (cell attachment and proliferation). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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14 pages, 7584 KiB  
Article
Combining Sandblasting, Alkaline Etching, and Collagen Immobilization to Promote Cell Growth on Biomedical Titanium Implants
by Chia-Fei Liu, Kai-Chun Chang, Ying-Sui Sun, Diem Thuy Nguyen and Her-Hsiung Huang
Polymers 2021, 13(15), 2550; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13152550 - 31 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1899
Abstract
Our objective in this study was to promote the growth of bone cells on biomedical titanium (Ti) implant surfaces via surface modification involving sandblasting, alkaline etching, and type I collagen immobilization using the natural cross-linker genipin. The resulting surface was characterized in terms [...] Read more.
Our objective in this study was to promote the growth of bone cells on biomedical titanium (Ti) implant surfaces via surface modification involving sandblasting, alkaline etching, and type I collagen immobilization using the natural cross-linker genipin. The resulting surface was characterized in terms topography, roughness, wettability, and functional groups, respectively using field emission scanning electron microscopy, 3D profilometry, and attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. We then evaluated the adhesion, proliferation, initial differentiation, and mineralization of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Results show that sandblasting treatment greatly enhanced surface roughness to promote cell adhesion and proliferation and that the immobilization of type I collagen using genipin enhanced initial cell differentiation as well as mineralization in the extracellular matrix of hMSCs. Interestingly, the nano/submicro-scale pore network and/or hydrophilic features on sandblasted rough Ti surfaces were insufficient to promote cell growth. However, the combination of all proposed surface treatments produced ideal surface characteristics suited to Ti implant applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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11 pages, 4418 KiB  
Article
A Cyclic BMP-2 Peptide Upregulates BMP-2 Protein-Induced Cell Signaling in Myogenic Cells
by Vijaya Narasimha Gudivada, Chen-Ji Huang, Yueh-Hsia Luo and Guo-Chung Dong
Polymers 2021, 13(15), 2549; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13152549 - 31 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2178
Abstract
In the current study, we designed four cyclic peptide analogues by incorporating two cysteine residues in a BMP-2 linear knuckle epitope in such a way that the active region of the peptide could be either inside or outside the cyclic ring. Bone morphogenetic [...] Read more.
In the current study, we designed four cyclic peptide analogues by incorporating two cysteine residues in a BMP-2 linear knuckle epitope in such a way that the active region of the peptide could be either inside or outside the cyclic ring. Bone morphogenetic protein receptor BMPRII was immobilized on the chip surface, and the interaction of the linear and cyclic peptide analogues was studied using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). From the affinity data, the peptides with an active region inside the cyclic ring had a higher binding affinity in comparison to the other peptides. To confirm that our affinity data are in line in vitro, we studied the expression levels of RUNX2 (runt-related transcription factor) and conducted an osteogenic marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay and staining. Based on the affinity data and the in vitro experiments, peptide P-05 could be a suitable candidate for osteogenesis, with higher binding affinity and increased RUNX2 and ALP expression in comparison to the linear peptides. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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35 pages, 31504 KiB  
Article
Biological Activity of Propolis Ointment with the Addition of 1% Nanosilver in the Treatment of Experimentally-Evoked Burn Wounds
by Jakub Staniczek, Żaneta Jastrzębska-Stojko and Rafał Stojko
Polymers 2021, 13(14), 2312; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13142312 - 14 Jul 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1938
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to assess the pharmacological efficacy of ointments containing 1% propolis and 1% nanosilver, compared to the conventional treatment of burn wounds. In the evaluation of the results, we used clinical observation of scars, microbiological examinations, pathomorphological [...] Read more.
The main objective of this study was to assess the pharmacological efficacy of ointments containing 1% propolis and 1% nanosilver, compared to the conventional treatment of burn wounds. In the evaluation of the results, we used clinical observation of scars, microbiological examinations, pathomorphological examinations, and analysis of free radicals. The analysis of the experiment results concerning the therapeutic effectiveness of the propolis ointment revealed its wide-ranging antibacterial action (against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria). The 1% propolis ointment was found to accelerate neoangiogenesis and epithelialization, have a positive effect on the healing of burn wounds, improve the cosmetic look of scars, and have no side-effects. The analysis of free radicals in burn wounds showed impressive activity of the 1% nanosilver ointment in the reduction of free radicals. No synergism of pharmacological activity of propolis and nanosilver was shown. A comparative evaluation of the acquired research material allows us to provide a favorable opinion on the topical treatment of burn wounds with 1% propolis. The obtained results show that the 1% propolis ointment reduces healing time, offers antimicrobial action, and has a positive effect on the normal process of scar formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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23 pages, 5388 KiB  
Article
Polycaprolactone/Polyethylene Glycol Blended with Dipsacus asper Wall Extract Nanofibers Promote Osteogenic Differentiation of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
by Te-Yang Huang, Mohsen Shahrousvand, Yu-Teng Hsu and Wen-Ta Su
Polymers 2021, 13(14), 2245; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13142245 - 08 Jul 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2220
Abstract
Dipsacus asper wall (DA) is an ancient Chinese medicinal material that has long been used to maintain the health of human bones. The present study aimed to evaluate the osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) of Dipsacus asper wall extracts (DAE). [...] Read more.
Dipsacus asper wall (DA) is an ancient Chinese medicinal material that has long been used to maintain the health of human bones. The present study aimed to evaluate the osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) of Dipsacus asper wall extracts (DAE). Microwave-assisted alcohol extraction of 100 mesh DA powder under optimal conditions can obtain 58.66% (w/w) yield of the crude extract. PDLSCs have excellent differentiation potential. PDLSCs treated with DA extract (DAE) underwent osteogenesis, exhibiting a higher expression of the Col-1, ALP, Runx2, and OCN genes, and had a 1.4-fold increase in mineralization, demonstrating the potential of DAE to promote osteogenic differentiation. After the addition of PI3K inhibitor LY294002, the expression of osteogenic genes was significantly inhibited, confirming that PI3K is an important pathway for DAE to induce osteogenesis. Mix DAE with polycaprolactone/polyethylene glycol (PCL/PEO) to obtain nanofibers with a diameter of 488 nm under optimal electrospinning conditions. The physical property analysis of nanofibers with and without DAE includes FTIR, mechanical strength, biodegradability, swelling ratio and porosity, and cell compatibility. When cells induced by nanofibers with or without DAE, the mineralization of PDLSCs cultured on PCL/PEO/DAE was 2.6-fold higher than that of PCL/PEO. The results of the study confirm that both DAE and PCL/PEO nanofibers have the effect of promoting osteogenic differentiation. In order to obtain the best induction effect, the optimal amount of DAE can be discussed in future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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14 pages, 3943 KiB  
Article
Influence of Antibiotic-Loaded Acrylic Bone Cement Composition on Drug Release Behavior and Mechanism
by I-Cheng Chen, Chen-Ying Su, Wei-Han Nien, Tzu-Tien Huang, Chang-Hung Huang, Yung-Chang Lu, Yu-Jen Chen, Gwo-Che Huang and Hsu-Wei Fang
Polymers 2021, 13(14), 2240; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13142240 - 08 Jul 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2876
Abstract
Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication after total joint replacement with considerable morbidity and large economic burdens. Antibiotic-Loaded Bone Cement (ALBC) has been developed as a valuable tool for local administration and is becoming one of the most effective methods for [...] Read more.
Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a devastating complication after total joint replacement with considerable morbidity and large economic burdens. Antibiotic-Loaded Bone Cement (ALBC) has been developed as a valuable tool for local administration and is becoming one of the most effective methods for the prevention and treatment of orthopedic infections. Controlling antibiotic release from ALBC is critical to achieve effective infection control, however, the antibiotic elution rates are generally low, and the mechanisms are poorly understood. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the effects of the basic acrylic bone cement components, including liquid/powder (monomer-to-polymer) ratios, radiopacifier, initiator, and doses of antibiotics on the porosity, antibiotic elution rates and mechanical properties of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) based ALBC. The obtained results from the in vitro studies suggested that a reduction in the liquid/powder ratio and an increase in the radiopacifier ratio and gentamicin doses led to increased porosity and release of antibiotic, while the initiator ratio exerted no effect on elution rates. In conclusion, we hope that by varying the composition of ALBC, we could considerably enhance the antibiotic elution rates by increasing porosity, while maintaining an adequate mechanical strength of the bone cements. This finding might provide insights into controlling antibiotic release from ALBC to achieve effective infection control after total joint replacement surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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19 pages, 7172 KiB  
Article
Strength and Biocompatibility of Heparin-Based Calcium Phosphate Cement Grafted with Ferulic Acid
by Kai-Chi Chang, Jian-Chih Chen, I-Tse Cheng, Ssu-Meng Haung, Shih-Ming Liu, Chia-Ling Ko, Ying-Sui Sun, Chi-Jen Shih and Wen-Cheng Chen
Polymers 2021, 13(13), 2219; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13132219 - 05 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2167
Abstract
The biomimetic synthesis of carbonated apatites by biomolecule-based templates is a promising way for broadening apatite applications in bone tissue regeneration. In this work, heparin was used as an organic template to prepare uniform carbonate-based apatite nanorods (CHA) and graft ferulic acid (F-CHA) [...] Read more.
The biomimetic synthesis of carbonated apatites by biomolecule-based templates is a promising way for broadening apatite applications in bone tissue regeneration. In this work, heparin was used as an organic template to prepare uniform carbonate-based apatite nanorods (CHA) and graft ferulic acid (F-CHA) for enhanced bone mineralization. Next, by combining calcium phosphate cement (CPC) with different F-CHA/CPC ratios, a new type of injectable bone cement combined with F-CHA bioactive apatite was developed (CPC + F-CHA). The physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and mineralization potential of the CPC + F-CHA composites were determined in vitro. The experimental results confirmed the preparation of highly biocompatible CHA and the compatibility of F-CHA with CPC. Although CPC + F-CHA composites with F-CHA (2.5 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%) showed a significant reduction in compressive strength (CS), compositing CPC with 10 wt% F-CHA yielded a CS suitable for orthopedic repair (CS still larger than 30 MPa). Spectroscopic and phase analyses revealed that the phase of the hydrothermally synthesized CHA product was not modified by the heparin template. Injection and disintegration tests indicated that the CPC + F-CHA composites have good biocompatibility even at 10 wt% F-CHA. D1 osteoprogenitor cells were cultured with the composites for 7 days in vitro, and the CPC + 10%F-CHA group demonstrated significantly promoted cell mineralization compared with other groups. Given these results, the use of over 10% F-CHA in CPC composites should be avoided if the latter is to be applied to load-bearing areas. A stress-shielding device may also be recommended to stabilize these areas. These newly developed biocompatible CPC + F-CHA have great potential as osteoconductive bone fillers for bone tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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16 pages, 7567 KiB  
Article
Antifibrotic Effect of Bletilla striata Polysaccharide-Resveratrol-Impregnated Dual-Layer Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Based Sponge for The Prevention of Epidural Fibrosis after Laminectomy
by Hsuan-Yu Chen, Tzu-Chieh Lin, Chih-Yung Chiang, Shiuan-Li Wey, Feng-Huei Lin, Kai-Chiang Yang, Chih-Hao Chang and Ming-Hsiao Hu
Polymers 2021, 13(13), 2129; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13132129 - 29 Jun 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2622
Abstract
The application of antifibrotic materials can alleviate epidural fibrosis by restricting excessive fibroblast proliferation and mitigating scar tissue formation. Here, a biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP)-resveratrol (RES) sponge was fabricated to inhibit scar tissue formation post laminectomy surgery. Fibroblasts NIH/3T3, myoblasts [...] Read more.
The application of antifibrotic materials can alleviate epidural fibrosis by restricting excessive fibroblast proliferation and mitigating scar tissue formation. Here, a biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)-Bletilla striata polysaccharide (BSP)-resveratrol (RES) sponge was fabricated to inhibit scar tissue formation post laminectomy surgery. Fibroblasts NIH/3T3, myoblasts C2C12, neural cells PC-12, and Schwann cells RSC96 were used to evaluate the in vitro cytocompatibility. Laminectomies on 10 Sprague–Dawley rats with/without the application of the CMC-BSP-RES sponge were performed. The severity of adhesion between the dura mater and formed scar tissue was qualitatively scored. All cell lines exhibited good viability with no significant difference in cytotoxicity when cultured with variable extractions of the CMC-BSP-RES sponge. S100a4 and P4hb expressions were downregulated in NIH/3T3 cultured in the CMC-BSP-RES sponge, implying that this sponge potentially inhibits fibroblast activity. No post-operative shrinkage or dura mater expansion along the surgical site was detected. The peel-off tests revealed that the tenacity of adhesion de-creased. Histopathological examinations verified that the average number of fibroblasts in the CMC-BSP-RES group considerably decreased. The CMC-BSP-RES sponge is a biocompatible and effective material for alleviating post-operative epidural fibrosis and mitigating fibroblast expression following laminectomy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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19 pages, 7834 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Grafting Efficacy of Active Biomolecules of Phosphatidylcholine and Type I Collagen on Polyether Ether Ketone: In Vitro and In Vivo
by Jian-Chih Chen, Chih-Hua Chen, Kai-Chi Chang, Shih-Ming Liu, Chia-Ling Ko, Chi-Jen Shih, Ying-Sui Sun and Wen-Cheng Chen
Polymers 2021, 13(13), 2081; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13132081 - 24 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2161
Abstract
Biomolecule grafting on polyether ether ketone (PEEK) was used to improve cell affinity caused by surface inertness. This study demonstrated the sequence-polished (P) and sulfonated (SA) PEEK modification to make a 3D structure, active biomolecule graftings through PEEK silylation (SA/SI) and then processed [...] Read more.
Biomolecule grafting on polyether ether ketone (PEEK) was used to improve cell affinity caused by surface inertness. This study demonstrated the sequence-polished (P) and sulfonated (SA) PEEK modification to make a 3D structure, active biomolecule graftings through PEEK silylation (SA/SI) and then processed with phosphatidylcholine (with silylation of SA/SI/PC; without SA/PC) and type I collagen (COL I, with silylation of SA/SI/C; without SA/C). Different modified PEEKs were implanted for 4, 8, and 12 weeks for histology. Sulfonated PEEK of SA showed the surface roughness was significantly increased; after the silylation of SA/SI, the hydrophilic nature was remarkably improved. The biomolecules were effectively grafted through silylation, and the cells showed improved attachment after 1 h. Furthermore, the SA/SI/PC group showed good in vitro mineralization. The new bone tissues were integrated into the 3D porous structures of SA/SI/PC and SA/SI/C in vivo making PEEK a potential alternative to metals in orthopedic implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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12 pages, 2509 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Antibacterial Effect of Casein-AgNPs Combined with Tigecycline against Acinetobacter baumannii
by Yu-Hsuan Chen, Wei-Hsun Wang, Sheng-Hui Lin, Yuan-Ting Yang-Wang, Sung-Pin Tseng, Chi-Sheng Chien and Chi-Jen Shih
Polymers 2021, 13(9), 1529; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13091529 - 10 May 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2304
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a common and challenging pathogen of nosocomial infections, due to its ability to survive on inanimate objects, desiccation tolerance, and resistance to disinfectants. In this study, we investigated an antibacterial strategy to combat A. baumannii [...] Read more.
Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a common and challenging pathogen of nosocomial infections, due to its ability to survive on inanimate objects, desiccation tolerance, and resistance to disinfectants. In this study, we investigated an antibacterial strategy to combat A. baumannii via the combination of antibiotics and silver protein. This strategy used a functional platform consisting of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) resurrected from silver-based calcium thiophosphate (SSCP) through casein and arginine. Then, the silver protein was combined with tigecycline, the first drug in glycylcycline antibiotic, to synergistically inhibit the viability of A. baumannii. The synergistic antibacterial activity was confirmed by the 96-well checkerboard method to determine their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and calculated for the combination index (CI). The MIC of the combination of silver protein and tigecycline (0.31 mg/mL, 0.16 µg/mL) was significantly lower than that of the individual MIC, and the CI was 0.59, which indicates a synergistic effect. Consequently, we integrated the detailed synergistic antibacterial properties when silver protein was combined with tigecycline. The result could make for a promising approach for the treatment of A. baumannii. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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Review

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15 pages, 1678 KiB  
Review
Microneedles in Action: Microneedling and Microneedles-Assisted Transdermal Delivery
by Dong-Jin Lim and Hong-Jun Kim
Polymers 2022, 14(8), 1608; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14081608 - 15 Apr 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4273
Abstract
Human skin is a multilayered physiochemical barrier protecting the human body. The stratum corneum (SC) is the outermost keratinized layer of skin through which only molecules with less or equal to 500 Da (Dalton) in size can freely move through the skin. Unfortunately, [...] Read more.
Human skin is a multilayered physiochemical barrier protecting the human body. The stratum corneum (SC) is the outermost keratinized layer of skin through which only molecules with less or equal to 500 Da (Dalton) in size can freely move through the skin. Unfortunately, the conventional use of a hypothermic needle for large therapeutic agents is susceptible to needle phobia and the risk of acquiring infectious diseases. As a new approach, a microneedle (MN) can deliver therapeutically significant molecules without apparent limitations associated with its molecular size. Microneedles can create microchannels through the skin’s SC without stimulating the proprioceptive pain nerves. With recent technological advancements in both fabrication and drug loading, MN has become a versatile platform that improves the efficacy of transdermally applied therapeutic agents (TAs) and associated treatments for various indications. This review summarizes advanced fabrication techniques for MN and addresses numerous TA coating and TA elution strategies from MN, offering a comprehensive perspective on the current microneedle technology. Lastly, we discuss how microneedling and microneedle technologies can improve the clinical efficacy of a variety of skin diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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18 pages, 28890 KiB  
Review
Advances of Hydroxyapatite Hybrid Organic Composite Used as Drug or Protein Carriers for Biomedical Applications: A Review
by Ssu-Meng Huang, Shih-Ming Liu, Chia-Ling Ko and Wen-Cheng Chen
Polymers 2022, 14(5), 976; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14050976 - 28 Feb 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3804
Abstract
Hydroxyapatite (HA), especially in the form of HA nanoparticles (HANPs), has excellent bioactivity, biodegradability, and osteoconductivity and therefore has been widely used as a template or additives for drug delivery in clinical applications, such as dentistry and orthopedic repair. Due to the atomically [...] Read more.
Hydroxyapatite (HA), especially in the form of HA nanoparticles (HANPs), has excellent bioactivity, biodegradability, and osteoconductivity and therefore has been widely used as a template or additives for drug delivery in clinical applications, such as dentistry and orthopedic repair. Due to the atomically anisotropic distribution on the preferred growth of HA crystals, especially the nanoscale rod-/whisker-like morphology, HA can generally be a good candidate for carrying a variety of substances. HA is biocompatible and suitable for medical applications, but most drugs carried by HANPs have an initial burst release. In the adsorption mechanism of HA as a carrier, specific surface area, pore size, and porosity are important factors that mainly affect the adsorption and release amounts. At present, many studies have developed HA as a drug carrier with targeted effect, porous structure, and high porosity. This review mainly discusses the influence of HA structures as a carrier on the adsorption and release of active molecules. It then focuses on the benefits and effects of different types of polymer-HA composites to re-examine the proteins/drugs carry and release behavior and related potential clinical applications. This literature survey can be divided into three main parts: 1. interaction and adsorption mechanism of HA and drugs; 2. advantages and application fields of HA/organic composites; 3. loading and drug release behavior of multifunctional HA composites in different environments. This work also presents the latest development and future prospects of HA as a drug carrier. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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15 pages, 3481 KiB  
Review
Methylene Blue-Based Nano and Microparticles: Fabrication and Applications in Photodynamic Therapy
by Dong-Jin Lim
Polymers 2021, 13(22), 3955; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13223955 - 16 Nov 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3410
Abstract
Methylene blue (MB) has been used in the textile industry since it was first extracted by the German chemist Heinrich Caro. Its pharmacological properties have also been applied toward the treatment of certain diseases such as methemoglobinemia, ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy, and thyroid conditions requiring [...] Read more.
Methylene blue (MB) has been used in the textile industry since it was first extracted by the German chemist Heinrich Caro. Its pharmacological properties have also been applied toward the treatment of certain diseases such as methemoglobinemia, ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy, and thyroid conditions requiring surgery. Recently, the utilization of MB as a safe photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received attention. Recent findings demonstrate that photoactivated MB exhibits not only anticancer activity but also antibacterial activity both in vitro and in vivo. However, due to the hydrophilic nature of MB, it is difficult to create MB-embedded nano- or microparticles capable of increasing the clinical efficacy of the PDT. This review aims to summarize fabrication techniques for MB-embedded nano and microparticles and to provide both in vitro and in vivo examples of MB-mediated PDT, thereby offering a future perspective on improving this promising clinical treatment modality. We also address examples of MB-mediated PDT in both cancer and infection treatments. Both in-vitro and in-vivo studies are summarized here to document recent trends in utilizing MB as an effective photosensitizer in PDT. Lastly, we discuss how developing efficient MB-carrying nano- and microparticle platforms would be able to increase the benefits of PDT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials Template for Organic or Composite Polymers in Biomedical Application)
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