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Cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by leveraging the immune system to target and eliminate tumor cells. Implantable biomaterials, such as hydrogels, sponges, scaffolds, implantable microdevice platforms, and macrobeads, offer localized and sustained release of immunomodulatory agents, improving the delivery of treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies like CAR‐T cells. This review examines the emerging role of these biomaterials in modulating the tumor microenvironment, enhancing immune cell recruitment, and reducing systemic side effects, positioning them as significant tools for treating solid tumors. Recent advances in material engineering are also discussed, including the integration of bioactive molecules and real‐time therapeutic adjustments based on patient‐specific immune responses, which offer new potential in personalized cancer treatments. However, challenges such as biocompatibility, high production costs, variability in patient response, and the necessity of surgical manipulations remain key obstacles. Nonetheless, ongoing research and technological advancements are steadily addressing these issues, paving the way for more effective and accessible cancer immunotherapies. Overall, this review highlights the promise of implantable biomaterials overcoming the current limitations of cancer immunotherapy and expanding the scope of effective, targeted cancer treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive utilization of natural polymers in tissue engineering is attributed to their excellent biocompatibility, degradability, and resemblance to the natural extracellular matrix. These polymers have a wide range of applications such as delivering therapeutic medicine, detecting diseases, sensing biological substances, promoting tissue regeneration, and treating diseases. This is a brief review of current developments in the properties and uses of widely used biomedical polymers derived from nature. Additionally, it explores the correlation between the characteristics and functions of these materials in different biomedical applications and highlights the prospective direction for the advancement of natural polymer materials in tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of fibrous polymer scaffolds is highly valuable for applications in tissue engineering. Furthermore, there is an extensive body of literature for chemical methods to produce scaffolds that release nitric oxide. However, these methods often use harsh chemistries and leave behind bulk waste. Alkanolamine low‐temperature plasma (LTP) is unexplored and single‐step processing to form nitric oxide (NO) releasing constructs is highly desirable. The major question addressed is whether it is possible to achieve single‐step processing of spun polyester with alkanolamine plasma to achieve nitric oxide releasing capabilities. Herein we report the experiments, processes, and data that support the claim that it is indeed possible to produce such a bio‐functional material for potential biomedical applications, especially in cardiovascular implants. Among the tested alkanolamines, monoethylamine (MEA) plasma treated biomaterial outperformed in comparison with diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA) in terms of NO release and cellular response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogel 3D printing holds immense potential in fields like personalized medicine, regenerative therapies, and organ creation, offering biocompatible structures similar to the extracellular matrix. Gelatin‐Methacryloyl (GelMA) emerges as a promising candidate, while its high viscosity poses a significant challenge, especially in vat photopolymerization‐based 3D printing. Here, a new approach is presented by using Hofmeister ionic effect to substantially reduce the viscosity of high‐content (up to 60%) Gelatin bioink at room temperature with enhanced mechanical performance of the printed structures. The thinning effect induced by chaotropic Hofmeister ions is investigated through complex viscosity analysis, optical rotation measurements, and sol–gel conversion studies. The thinning effect induced by chaotropic ions enables precise 3D printing of Gelatin hydrogel, achieving accuracy comparable to prints made with polymers. Furthermore, after polymerization, the cations of the chaotropic salt change their role to cross‐linkers, leading to stronger scaffolds that exhibit biocompatibility with robust cell attachment, proliferation, and suitability for cell growth. The combination facilitates the creation of customizable structures and high printing accuracy will promote the wide application of Gelatin in the development of patient‐specific implants, drug delivery systems, and tissue scaffolds, further improving medical treatment efficacy and personalized healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to improve the mechanical properties of biocompatible ceramic materials, which are known for their superior potential to integrate with bone compared to metallic implants. However, achieving sufficient mechanical strength, particularly for weight-bearing areas, poses a challenge. Hydroxyapatite (HA) powder is synthesized, taking into consideration the mechanical mixing and aging effects to achieve the desired composition and properties. The synthesized HA powder undergoes calcination under various atmospheres to assess its impact on the crystal structure. The study also explores the coating of HA particles with silicon dioxide (SiO2) using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) to enhance surface modification and wettability. This process results in a triphasic powder consisting of HA, tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and calcium phosphate silicate (CPS). The morphology of the powder is analyzed using techniques such as energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Moreover, a refined sintering procedure is developed to minimize cracking volume, leading to a significant 117 % increase in compressive strength compared to commercial materials. Finally, the powder is optimized for 3D printing by adding water, simplifying its use in biomedical applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive research efforts have been focused on customizing the microstructure, macrostructure, and phase composition of calcium phosphate for enhanced biocompatibility and bioactivity in scaffolds for bone substitutes. Despite significant progress, achieving precise phase composition and microstructure remains a challenge, primarily due to the necessity of scaffold sintering. This study addresses the challenges in developing customized patient‐specific bone substitutes by proposing a sequential approach that reduces processing steps while providing control over the phase and morphology of the scaffolds' structure. The methodology utilizes freeze‐casting and sintering for highly porous the scaffolds' preparation, followed by hydrothermal treatment to modify the microstructure. The introduction of CaCO3 induces a phase transformation of tricalcium phosphate, increasing the hydroxyapatite content, while the overall macrostructure retains the characteristics of freeze‐casting. The surface morphology undergoes a transition from equiaxial grains to whiskers‐like structures and hexagonal rods, impacting compressive strength. Following hydrothermal treatment, the formation of whiskers‐like hydroxyapatite grains leads to a notable strength increase from 2.8 to 5.7 MPa. Remarkably, the scaffolds undergo nearly complete phase transformation, shifting from 100% tricalcium phosphate to 99% hydroxyapatite, all while conserving the macrostructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Professional sports such as tennis training require repetitive shoulder movements, which can result in tendon fatigue and injury due to overuse. This injury usually occurs when an incorrect force is applied or when the tendon is overused. Because the tendon lacks blood vessels, the repair process is slow and ineffective. The treatment of tendon injuries has always been a clinical challenge. In addition to conventional surgery and nonoperative conservative treatment, biomaterial-based scaffolds may be a solution. In this review, we described several of the most popular biomaterials for tendon repair and presented the latest research advances. These biomaterials include protein-based biomaterials, carbohydrates, glycosaminoglycans, and acellular matrices. They have shown improved tendon repair ability both in vitro and in vivo. However, no gold standard has been established, and further experiments are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A substantial amount of funds are devoted to developing new biomaterials for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) each year. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in ACL tissue engineering. Successful tissue engineering approaches should be able to replicate native ACLs, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of biomaterials and biological responses. Various natural and synthetic biomaterials and their combinations have been investigated to create innovative scaffold systems for ACL regeneration. The next generation biomaterials should have a proper balance between mechanical properties and cell response. Recent advancements in ACL biomaterials, while promising, still face certain limitations that hinder their utilization in the human body. This review aims to explore recent biomaterials and their characteristics in the context of ACL tissue engineering. Starting with an overview of native ACL properties, we delve into different types of biomaterials, including natural, synthetic, and nanoparticles utilized in ACL tissue engineering. For each biomaterial, we discuss the biological response and highlight the challenges and future directions in developing innovative biomaterials for ACL repair and replacement scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofiber production techniques have become increasingly important due to their wide range of applications. However, the complex design of the setup and difficulty in scaling up to high production rate have limited the industrial applicability of some of the conventional fiber generation techniques such as electrospinning. Herein, the touch spinning method is scaled up for nanofiber production using a simple rotating drawing setup with polymers that are relevant for biomedical applications such as polyethylene oxide and gelatin. The process is amenable to use of benign solvent such as water and production of a wide variety of submicron‐scale gelatin‐based nanofibers at a high throughput (≈2.45 g hr−1 with the single channel flow), which is an order of magnitude higher than those produced by other fiber generation methods is shown. The parametric study indicates that the fiber production process can be tuned at a desired rate without sacrificing the fiber quality by simply altering the number of drawing rods, the size of the rotating disk, and the number of solution flow supply channels. The utility of this technique for different biomedical applications such as cell culture and air filtration applications is also demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding cellular mechanics requires evaluating the mechanical and chemical cues that regulate the actin cytoskeleton, particularly filopodia and lamellipodia. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of scaffolds properties on cell migration. The results showed that scaffolds toughness, strain, and strength played a key role in promoting cell movement by stimulating the dynamic formation of filopodia and lamellipodia. The test sample containing 3 wt% G significantly enhanced toughness, yield strength, and strain, leading to increase cell motility as well as enhanced development of longer filopodia and larger lamellipodia in MG-63 cells. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing scaffolds to promote bone tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium phosphate ceramics are short of osteostimulation capacity to effectively repair the bone defects. Herein, magnesium silicate (MgSi) was utilized as an additive to modify the 3D-printed magnesium phosphate (MgP) ceramic scaffolds. The results presented that the addition of MgSi was conducive to enhancement of compressive strength of the MgP/MgSi ceramic composite scaffolds, and the scaffolds incorporating 20 wt% MgSi had the highest value. The degradation of MgP/MgSi scaffolds resulted in a decrease of mechanical strength and the continuous release of magnesium and silicon ions. In comparison with MgP scaffolds, the MgP/MgSi scaffolds promoted the growth and osteogenic gene expression of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Collectively, the 3D-printed MgP/MgSi scaffolds with high mechanical strength and osteo-stimulation effects are potential biomaterials for the effective restoration of bone defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Biomaterials loaded with ingredients derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are viewed as a promising strategy for treating spinal cord injury (SCI). However, a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature on this topic has not yet been conducted. Therefore, this paper systematically reviews researches related to this approach, aiming to identify gaps and shortcomings in the field. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Chinese Biomedical Literature, Wanfang, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched for retrieving studies on biomaterials loaded with TCM ingredients published from their inception to October 2024. Two reviewers performed screening of search results, information extraction, and literature quality assessment independently. Results: For this systematic review, 41 publications were included. Six TCM ingredients-paclitaxel, curcumin, tetramethylpyrazine, resveratrol, berberine, and tanshinone IIA were combined with biomaterials for treatment of SCI. Biomaterials were categorized into hydrogels, biodegradable scaffolds, nanoparticles, and microspheres according to the type of scaffold. These drug delivery systems exhibit commendable biocompatibility, drug-loading capacity, and drug-release capabilities, and in combination with TCM ingredients, synergistically contribute to anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anti-apoptotic effects. Conclusion: These studies demonstrated the efficacy of biomaterials loaded with TCM ingredients in facilitating motor function recovery and neuroprotection in SCI rats, providing evidence for future research. However, in the complex microenvironment of SCI, achieving the maximum drug loading capacity of TCM ingredients within biomaterials, along with sustained and controlled release to fully exert their pharmacological effects, remains a major challenge for future research. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ identifier CRD42024505000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous scaffolds, whose mechanical and biological properties are greatly affected by structure, are new treatments for bone defects. Since bone repair is related to biomechanics, analyzing the osteogenesis in scaffolds based on mechanical stimulation may become a more effective method than traditional biological experiments. A tissue regeneration algorithm based on mechanical regulation theory was implemented in this study to evaluate the osteogenesis of classical scaffolds (Gyroid, I-WP, and Diamond). In vivo experiments were used to verify and supplement the simulation results. Different approaches to describing osteogenesis were discussed. Bone formation was more obvious inside the Gyroid scaffold and outside the I-WP scaffold, while the new bone was more sufficient and evenly distributed in the Diamond scaffold. The osteogenesis pattern of the bone scaffold in the simulation analysis was consistent with the results of animal experiments, and the bone volume calculated by the tissue fraction threshold method and the elastic modulus threshold method was very similar to the in vivo experiment. The mechanical responses mediated by structure affect the osteogenesis of bone scaffolds. This study provided and confirmed a simulation analysis method based on mechanical regulation theory, which is more efficient and economical for analyzing tissue healing in bioengineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in biotechnology forged the path for clinical trials in dish (CTiDs) to advance as a popular method of experimentation in biomedicine. CTiDs play a fundamental role in translational research through technologies such as induced pluripotent stem cells, whole genome sequencing, and organs-on-a-chip. In this review, we explore advancements that enable these CTiD biotechnologies and their applications in animal testing, disease modeling, and space radiation technologies. Furthermore, this review dissects the advantages and disadvantages of CTiDs, as well as their regulatory considerations. Lastly, we evaluate the challenges that CTiDs pose and the role of CTiDs in future experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skin is a tissue constantly exposed to the risk of damage, such as cuts, burns, and genetic disorders. The standard treatment is autograft, but it can cause pain to the patient being extremely complex in patients suffering from burns on large body surfaces. Considering that there is a need to develop technologies for the repair of skin tissue like 3D bioprinting. Skin is a tissue that is approximately 1/16 of the total body weight and has three main layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Therefore, there are several studies using cells, biomaterials, and bioprinting for skin regeneration. Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, and showed in the recent research in skin regeneration, the main cells used, biomaterials studied that provide initial support for these cells, allowing the growth and formation of the neotissue and general characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each methodology and the landmarks in recent research in the 3D skin bioprinting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freeze casting is an effective way to fabricate the porous ceramics with anisotropic and interconnected porous structures and can be used in various applications, such as filtration, adsorption, and insulation. However, the ceramic‐based scaffolds fabricated by freeze casting have the upper limit of porosity since excessively low solid content in the slurry will lead to structural instability and cracks formation in scaffolds. This study aims at combining the freeze casting and sol–gel method and developing a hybrid process to overcome the limitation of freeze casting. Besides, the effects of solid content and cooling rates on the microstructure of ultralightweight alumina scaffolds (ULASs) and their mechanical and thermal properties were investigated. Aluminum isopropoxide was selected as the precursor to conduct the hydrolysis reaction in acid environment and condensation process by heat treatment. The successfully synthesized alumina scaffolds have ultrahigh porosity (>90%), low bulk density (0.1240–0.2429 g/cm3), and low relative density (0.0314–0.0615). The anisotropic porous lamellar structure was evaluated by scanning electron microscope, µ‐CT, and mercury porosimeter. A lot of nanoscale pores are observed on the lamellae surfaces, forming the dual‐scale porous structure inside the scaffolds and contributing to higher specific surface area. The unique anisotropic structure, high porosity, and stable mechanical properties enable ULASs to deliver a low thermal conductivity of 0.2 W/m/K and large anisotropy in thermal properties, possessing great potential for thermal insulative materials. This sol–gel/freeze‐casting hybrid approach is believed to be extended to different material systems and provide promising potentials in fabricating the porous materials with various functionalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction of bony mandibular defects is a challenge in oral and maxillofacial surgery due to aesthetic and functional requirements. This study investigated the potential of a novel hybrid scaffold for bone regeneration and degradation assessment of the ceramic within the omentum majus over 6 months and the extent to which rh BMP-2 as a growth factor, alone or combined with a hydrogel, affects regeneration. In this animal study, 10 Göttingen minipigs each had one scaffold implanted in the greater omentum. Five animals had scaffolds loaded with a collagen hydrogel and rh BMP-2, and the other five animals (control group) had scaffolds loaded with rh BMP-2 only. Fluorochrome injections and computed tomography (CT) were performed regularly. After 6 months, the animals were euthanized, and samples were collected for microCT and histological evaluations. Fluorescent and light microscopic and a CT morphological density evaluation showed continuous bone growth until week 16 in both groups. Regarding the ratio of bone attachment to the Zr02 support struts, the rh BMP-2 loaded collagen hydrogel group showed with 63% a significantly higher attachment (p > 0.001) than the rh BMP-2 control group (49%). In this study, bone growth was induced in all omentum majus specimens until post-operative week 16. Furthermore, hydrogel and rh BMP-2 together resulted in better bone-scaffold integration than rh BMP-2 alone. Further studies should investigate whether implantation of the scaffolds in the jaw after an appropriate period of bone regeneration leads to a stable situation and the desired results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue-engineered skin substitutes (TESS) emerged as a new therapeutic option to improve skin transplantation. However, establishing an adequate and rapid vascularization in TESS is a critical factor for their clinical application and successful engraftment in patients. Therefore, several methods have been applied to improve the vascularization of skin substitutes including (i) modifying the structural and physicochemical properties of dermal scaffolds; (ii) activating biological scaffolds with growth factor-releasing systems or gene vectors; and (iii) developing prevascularized skin substitutes by loading scaffolds with capillary-forming cells. This review provides a detailed overview of the most recent and important developments in the vascularization strategies for skin substitutes. On the one hand, we present cell-based approaches using stem cells, microvascular fragments, adipose tissue derived stromal vascular fraction, endothelial cells derived from blood and skin as well as other pro-angiogenic stimulation methods. On the other hand, we discuss how distinct 3D bioprinting techniques and microfluidics, miRNA manipulation, cell sheet engineering and photosynthetic scaffolds like GelMA, can enhance skin vascularization for clinical applications. Finally, we summarize and discuss the challenges and prospects of the currently available vascularization techniques that may serve as a steppingstone to a mainstream application of skin tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue regeneration relies on the mechanical properties of the surrounding environment, and it has already been shown that mechanostimulation is highly dependent on the stiffness of the native biological tissue. The main advantage of injectable hydrogels in medical applications is their ability to be delivered through minimally invasive techniques. Natural polymer-based hydrogels have been widely used in biomedical applications, due to their high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and similarity to soft tissues. However, the crucial combination of low stiffness with high resilience has not been achieved for natural polymers. The current study focuses on the development of novel gelatin-based injectable hydrogels for soft tissue regeneration applications, elucidating the effects of the formulation parameters on the resilience, microstructure, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. Non-foamed hydrogels demonstrated resilience of at least 95%, while porous hydrogels maintained resilience above 90%, allowing them to withstand mechanical stresses and dynamic conditions within the body. The adjustable modulus of these hydrogels provides the necessary flexibility to mimic the mechanical properties of soft and very soft tissues, without compromising resilience. Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) observations of the porous hydrogels indicated round interconnected pore structures, desired for cell migration and nutrient flow. Biocompatibility tests on fibroblasts and pre-adipocytes confirmed high biocompatibility, both directly and indirectly. In summary, structuring these new hydrogels for achieving adjustable stiffness, along with the excellent resilience and biocompatibility, is expected to enable this new technology to fit various soft tissue regeneration applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cartilage damage and degeneration pose significant challenges in orthopedic medicine, innovative approaches for regenerative therapies. The hydrogel is designed to provide a supportive matrix for cell growth and differentiation while delivering therapeutic agents to promote tissue repair. Drug-loaded hydrogels have been extensively studied for cartilage regenerative medicine, offering promising results for tissue engineering and drug delivery applications. These hydrogels, composed of homopolymers and copolymers, can absorb water and create an appropriate microenvironment similar to the extracellular matrix (ECM). Various polymers and crosslinking methods are explored to optimize the hydrogel's mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and drug release kinetics. Additionally, the study investigates the efficacy of different drugs, growth factors, and bioactive molecules for enhancing chondrogenesis and cartilage regeneration within the hydrogel scaffold. The developed drug-loaded hydrogel holds great promise for addressing the unmet clinical need for effective cartilage regenerative therapies, offering potential advancements in orthopedic medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the impact of low-level laser irradiation on the viability and proliferation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) cultivated on polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds. hPDLSCs were obtained, characterized, and grown on the surface of PLA films produced via the solvent casting technique. The study involved two groups: the control group, which was not exposed to radiation, and the laser group, which was irradiated with a diode laser (InGaAIP) with a power of 30 mW, a wavelength of 660 nm, and a single dose of 1 J/cm² emitted continuously. Cell viability was assessed 24 and 48 hours after irradiation using the Alamar blue and Live/Dead assays. Flow cytometry was used to assess cell cycle events, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the interaction between cells and the biomaterial. The results revealed a statistically significant increase in cell metabolic activity in the laser group compared with the control group at 24 hours (p <0.05) and 48 hours (p <0.001), as indicated by the Alamar blue assay. The Live/Dead assay also revealed a greater density of viable cells in the laser group. The cell cycle analysis revealed a significant increase in the number of cells in the proliferative phase (G2/M) in the laser group compared with the control group (p <0.001). The SEM images demonstrated that the irradiated group had a greater concentration of cells while still maintaining their cell shape and projections. This study demonstrated that photobiomodulation can increase the viability and proliferation of periodontal stem cells cultured on PLA scaffolds, suggesting the potential of this protocol for future studies on periodontal tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need to develop synthetic bone substitutes with structures, properties, and functions similar to bone and capable of preventing microbial infections is still an ongoing challenge. This research is focused on the preparation and characterization of three-dimensional porous scaffolds based on hydroxyapatite (HA)-functionalized calcium carbonate loaded with silver nanoparticles and simvastatin (SIMV). The scaffolds were prepared using the foam replica method, with a polyurethane (PU) sponge as a template, followed by successive polymer removal and sintering. The scaffolds were then coated with poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) to improve mechanical properties and structural integrity, and loaded with silver nanoparticles and SIMV. The scaffolds were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), ATR FT-IR, and silver and SIMV loading. Moreover, the samples were analyzed by Brillouin and Raman microscopy. Finally, in vitro bioactivity, SIMV and silver release, and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis were evaluated. From the Brillouin spectra, samples showed characteristics analogous to those of bone tissue. They exhibited new hydroxyapatite growth, as evidenced by SEM, and good antimicrobial activity against the tested bacteria. In conclusion, the obtained results demonstrate the potential of the scaffolds for application in bone repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We introduce a "solution‐processing‐transformation" strategy, deploying solvent vapor as scaffolds, to fabricate high‐quality hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) membranes. This strategy can overcome the mismatch in processing conditions and crystal growth thermodynamics faced during the facile solution processing of the membrane. The procedure includes the vapor‐trigged in situ transformation of dense amorphous supramolecules to crystalline HOF‐16, with HOF‐11 as the transient state. The mechanism involves a vapor‐activated dissolution‐precipitation equilibrium shifting and hydrogen bonding‐guided molecule rearrangement, elucidated through combined experimental and theoretical analysis. Upon removal of the molecular scaffolds, the resulting HOF‐16 membranes showcase significant improvement in hydrogen separation performance over their amorphous counterparts and previously reported HOF membranes. The method's broad applicability is evidenced by successfully extending it to other substrates and HOF structures. This study provides a fundamental understanding of guest‐induced ordered supramolecular assembly and paves the way for the advanced manufacture of high‐performance HOF membranes for gas separation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone repair and regeneration require physiological cues, including mechanical, electrical, and biochemical activity. Many biomaterials have been investigated as bioactive scaffolds with excellent electrical properties. Amongst biomaterials, piezoelectric materials (PMs) are gaining attention in biomedicine, power harvesting, biomedical devices, and structural health monitoring. PMs have unique properties, such as the ability to affect physiological movements and deliver electrical stimuli to damaged bone or cells without an external power source. The crucial bone property is its piezoelectricity. Bones can generate electrical charges and potential in response to mechanical stimuli, as they influence bone growth and regeneration. Piezoelectric materials respond to human microenvironment stimuli and are an important factor in bone regeneration and repair. This manuscript is an overview of the fundamentals of the materials generating the piezoelectric effect and their influence on bone repair and regeneration. This paper focuses on the state of the art of piezoelectric materials, such as polymers, ceramics, and composites, and their application in bone tissue engineering. We present important information from the point of view of bone tissue engineering. We highlight promising upcoming approaches and new generations of piezoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Articular cartilage degeneration poses a significant public health challenge; techniques such as 3D bioprinting are being explored for its regeneration in vitro. Gelatin-based hydrogels represent one of the most promising biopolymers used in cartilage tissue engineering, especially for its collagen composition and tunable mechanical properties. However, there are no standard protocols that define process parameters such as the crosslinking method to apply. To this aim, a reproducible study was conducted for exploring the influence of different crosslinking methods on 3D bioprinted gelatin structures. This study assessed mechanical properties and cell viability in relation to various crosslinking techniques, revealing promising results particularly for dual (photo + ionic) crosslinking methods, which achieved high cell viability and tunable stiffness. These findings offer new insights into the effects of crosslinking methods on 3D bioprinted gelatin for cartilage applications. For example, ionic and photo-crosslinking methods provide softer materials, with photo-crosslinking supporting cell stretching and diffusion, while ionic crosslinking preserves a spherical stem cell morphology. On the other hand, dual crosslinking provides a stiffer, optimized solution for creating stable cartilage-like constructs. The results of this study offer a new perspective on the standardization of gelatin for cartilage bioprinting, bridging the gap between research and clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is used to treat blood and immunodeficient diseases. HSC expansion techniques must be developed to prevent complications and ensure reliable therapeutic efficacy. Hence, several studies have attempted in vitro expansion of HSCs using scaffolds but failed to mimic the diverse and complex nature of HSC environments. Herein, an artificial HSC microenvironment, bone marrow (BM) niches is created, through in vivo engineering using carbonate apatite honeycomb scaffolds and the potential of these scaffolds in restoring lost hematopoietic function and immunity is investigated. BM niches are generated in every honeycomb channel, wherein HSCs are gradually aggregated. Compared to the actual BM, the scaffolds exhibit a 9.9‐ and 78‐fold increase in the number of stored CD45− CD34+ side scatterlow cells that are mainly considered HSCs at 8 and 12 weeks, respectively. The transplantation of the honeycomb scaffold containing HSCs and BM niches into immunocompromised mice increases peripheral blood chimerism and restores hematopoietic function and the number of immunocytes (monocytes and lymphocytes) to normal levels. This study contributes to the development of efficient HSC transplantation techniques. Additionally, in vivo‐engineered integrated tissues using honeycomb scaffolds can be used to elucidate the interplay between the BM niches and resident cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing global population and demand for meat have led to the need to find sustainable and viable alternatives to traditional production methods. One potential solution is cultivated meat (CM), which involves producing meat in vitro from animal stem cells to generate products with nutritional and sensory properties similar to conventional livestock‐derived meat. This article examines current approaches to CM production and investigates how using insect cells could enhance the process. Cell sources are a critical issue in CM production, alongside advances in culture media, bioreactors for scalability, and scaffold development. Insect cells, compared to commonly used mammalian cells, may offer advantages in overcoming technological challenges that hinder cell culture development and expansion. The objective of this review is to emphasize how insects, as a cell source for CM production, could offer a more sustainable option. A crucial aspect for achieving this goal is a comprehensive understanding of the physiology of muscle and fat cells. In this work, the characteristics of insect and mammalian cells are compared, focusing particularly on muscle and fat cell development, regulatory pathways, hormonal regulation, and tissue composition. Insect cells are a promising source for CM, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melt electrowriting (MEW) has become a novel technique for textile (scaffold) biomanufacturing of Tissue Engineering scaffolds which, once they are combined with cells, we refer to them as biotextiles. The accuracy of weaving resorbable polymer fibers provides paradigmatic advances over electrospinning. This innovation in MEW allows control of pore geometry, mechanical properties, and overall geometries, especially the ability to bring two thin membranes formed from different, complementary types of cells as occurs in the key areas of most tissues. The biofabrication of large surfaces (i.e., high surface areas) where two or more types of cells are in very thin membranes in direct contact is unprecedented. One of the main challenges is to learn how to tame the MEW process parameters to biomanufacture personalized textiles with geometries other than the scaffolds produced with the well-demonstrated flat sheet and straight tube collectors. Why? Because no tissue within the human body takes the form of a flat sheet or straight tube. In this work, we show the challenges involved in translating MEW to the printing of textiles with out-of-plane geometries and validated a promising multi-axis kinematic strategy to orthogonally aligned the printing nozzle to them. Of particular interest to us is the effect of the fiber collector geometry on the electric field (i.e., inhomogeneities not seen with flat sheet and straight tube collectors) and thus in fiber deposition accuracy. The benefit of applying multi-axis CAM methodologies and the use of a digital twin to assist in MEW biomanufacturing is also validated. We believe these advances will unleash the imagination of people working with MEW for novel applications in Regenerative Medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, are prevalent in freshwater systems and have gained interest for their potential in medical applications, particularly in skin regeneration. Among these, Synechococcus sp. strain PCC 7002 stands out because of its rapid proliferation and capacity to be genetically modified to produce growth factors. This study investigates the safety of Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 when used in scaffolds for skin regeneration, focusing on systemic inflammatory responses in a murine model. We evaluated the following three groups: scaffolds colonized with genetically engineered bacteria producing hyaluronic acid, scaffolds with wild-type bacteria, and control scaffolds without bacteria. After seven days, we assessed systemic inflammation by measuring changes in cytokine profiles and lymphatic organ sizes. The results showed no significant differences in spleen, thymus, and lymph node weights, indicating a lack of overt systemic toxicity. Blood cytokine analysis revealed elevated levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in scaffolds with bacteria, suggesting a systemic inflammatory response, while TNF-α levels remained unaffected. Proteome profiling identified distinct cytokine patterns associated with bacterial colonization, including elevated inflammatory proteins and products, indicative of acute inflammation. Conversely, control scaffolds exhibited protein profiles suggestive of a rejection response, characterized by increased levels of cytokines involved in T and B cell activation. Our findings suggest that Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 does not appear to cause significant systemic toxicity, supporting its potential use in biomedical applications. Further research is necessary to explore the long-term effects and clinical implications of these responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue regeneration is a rapidly evolving field aimed at the development of biocompatible materials and devices, such as scaffolds, to treat diseased and damaged osseous tissue. Functional scaffolds maintain structural integrity and provide mechanical support at the defect site during the healing process, while simultaneously enabling or improving regeneration through amplified cellular cues between the scaffold and native tissues. Ample research on functionalization has been conducted to improve scaffold–host tissue interaction, including fabrication techniques, biomaterial selection, scaffold surface modifications, integration of bioactive molecular additives, and post-processing modifications. Each of these methods plays a crucial role in enabling scaffolds to not only support but actively participate in the healing and regeneration process in bone and joint surgery. This review provides a state-of-the-art, comprehensive overview of the functionalization of scaffold-based strategies used in tissue engineering, specifically for bone regeneration. Critical issues and obstacles are highlighted, applications and advances are described, and future directions are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Understanding cellular mechanics requires evaluating the mechanical and chemical cues that regulate the actin cytoskeleton, particularly filopodia and lamellipodia. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of scaffolds properties on cell migration. The results showed that scaffolds toughness, strain, and strength played a key role in promoting cell movement by stimulating the dynamic formation of filopodia and lamellipodia. The test sample containing 3 wt% G significantly enhanced toughness, yield strength, and strain, leading to increase cell motility as well as enhanced development of longer filopodia and larger lamellipodia in MG-63 cells. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing scaffolds to promote bone tissue regeneration.

A substantial amount of funds are devoted to developing new biomaterials for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) each year. Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in ACL tissue engineering. Successful tissue engineering approaches should be able to replicate native ACLs, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of biomaterials and biological responses. Various natural and synthetic biomaterials and their combinations have been investigated to create innovative scaffold systems for ACL regeneration. The next generation biomaterials should have a proper balance between mechanical properties and cell response. Recent advancements in ACL biomaterials, while promising, still face certain limitations that hinder their utilization in the human body. This review aims to explore recent biomaterials and their characteristics in the context of ACL tissue engineering. Starting with an overview of native ACL properties, we delve into different types of biomaterials, including natural, synthetic, and nanoparticles utilized in ACL tissue engineering. For each biomaterial, we discuss the biological response and highlight the challenges and future directions in developing innovative biomaterials for ACL repair and replacement scaffolds.

Translation of small-diameter tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) for the treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD) remains an unfulfilled promise. This is largely due to the limited integration of TEVGs into the native vascular wall-a process hampered by the insufficient smooth muscle cell (SMC) infiltration and extracellular matrix deposition, and low vasoactivity. These processes can be promoted through the judicious modulation of the SMC toward a synthetic phenotype to promote remodeling and vascular integration; however, the expression of synthetic markers is often accompanied by a decrease in the expression of contractile proteins. Therefore, techniques that can precisely modulate the SMC phenotypical behavior could have the potential to advance the translation of TEVGs. In this review, we describe the phenotypic diversity of SMCs and the different environmental cues that allow the modulation of SMC gene expression. Furthermore, we describe the emerging biomaterial approaches to modulate the SMC phenotype in TEVG design and discuss the limitations of current techniques. In addition, we found that current studies in tissue engineering limit the analysis of the SMC phenotype to a few markers, which are often the characteristic of early differentiation only. This limited scope has reduced the potential of tissue engineering to modulate the SMC toward specific behaviors and applications. Therefore, we recommend using the techniques presented in this review, in addition to modern single-cell proteomics analysis techniques to comprehensively characterize the phenotypic modulation of SMCs. Expanding the holistic potential of SMC modulation presents a great opportunity to advance the translation of living conduits for CAD therapeutics.

The skin is crucial for homeostasis and body defense, requiring quick healing to maintain internal balance. Initially used for bone repair, calcium hydroxyapatite (HAp) is now being studied for soft tissue engineering. This literature review investigated HAp’s role in tissue repair through searches on PubMed, Scopus (Elsevier), Science Direct, Springer Link, and Google Scholar databases without time restrictions, using keywords “hydroxyapatite AND skin AND wound” and “hydroxyapatite AND skin repair”. Inclusion criteria encompassed in vivo studies in humans and animals, English publications, full access, and sufficient data on HAp’s role in tissue repair. Exclusions included duplicates, unrelated articles, editor letters, reviews, comments, conference abstracts, dissertations, and theses. Out of the 472 articles initially identified, 139 met the inclusion criteria, with 21 focusing on HAp for tissue repair. Findings indicate that HAp and nano-HAp in skin regeneration are promising, especially when combined with other biomaterials, offering antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits and stimulating angiogenesis. This suggests their potential application in dermatology, surgery, and dentistry, extending HAp’s versatility from hard tissues to enhancing critical properties for soft tissue repair and accelerating healing.

Abstract Background Bone defects, especially critical-size bone defects, and their repair pose a treatment challenge. Osteoinductive scaffolds have gained importance given their potential in bone tissue engineering applications. Methods Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds are used for their morphological, physical, cell-compatible and osteoinductive properties. The PCL scaffolds were prepared by electrospinning, and the surface was modified by layer-by-layer deposition using either graphene or graphene oxide. Results Graphene oxide-coated PCL (PCL-GO) scaffolds showed a trend for enhanced physical properties such as fibre diameter, wettability and mechanical properties, yield strength, and tensile strength, compared to graphene-modified PCL scaffolds (PCL-GP). However, the surface roughness of PCL-GP scaffolds showed a higher trend than PCL-GO scaffolds. In vitro studies showed that both scaffolds were cell-compatible. Graphene oxide on PCL scaffold showed a trend for enhanced osteogenic differentiation of human umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells without any differentiation media than graphene on PCL scaffolds after 21 days. Conclusion Graphene oxide showed a trend for higher mineralisation, but this trend is not statistically significant. Therefore, graphene and graphene oxide have the potential for bone regeneration and tissue engineering applications. Future in vivo studies and clinical trials are warranted to justify their ultimate clinical use. Graphical abstract

Molecular peptide grafting (MPG) is the isolation/synthesis of a bioactive fragment of a peptide/protein and its subsequent transfer to a target protein/peptide to create a new protein product with specified unique biological properties. This is one of the methods together with molecular stapling and peptide backbone circularization to strengthen the structural organization of short peptides. Nowadays research on MPT is mainly focused on demonstrating its usefulness and applicability, rather than on the development of next-generation biopeptides. The purpose of the mini-review is to demonstrate the applicability of MPT to create stable and bioavailable peptides of a new generation with enhanced biological properties. Choosing the right scaffold for subsequent inoculation of a biologically active peptide sequence into it is the most important task in creating targeted biopeptides. Peptides with the necessary framework, such as cyclotides, can be obtained by three-phase synthesis. Cyclotides have a common mechanism of action. Their biological activity is determined both by the ability to bind proteins with the formation of pores and destruction of biological target-membranes, and by the properties necessary to create new peptides in the scaffold. Various peptide inserts can be used to ensure the functionality of new biopeptides obtained by the MPT method. Different peptide drugs are an example of the effective practical use of MTP. Consequently, MPT makes it possible to effectively design a new generation of biopeptides characterized by high epitope thermodynamic and metabolic stability with new or enhanced biological functions. However, the effectiveness of the peptides obtained by the MPT must be proved in vitro and in vivo.

The integration of the biocompatibility of collagen and the remote-control ability of magnetic elements serves as both a cell scaffold and an actuator. We studied the preparation, characterization, and potential applications of collagen–magnetic particle composite microbeads (CMPMBs). The interplay among collagen concentration, particle size, and surface roughness was found to influence cell adhesion and proliferation. Adsorption and desorption tests showed the reversible attachment of the particles to magnetic sheets, enabling precise spatial control and targeted cell delivery. The particles demonstrated their utility as cell carriers, supporting cell migration and proliferation. These findings showcase the potential of CMPMBs as a promising platform for advanced cell delivery and tissue regeneration applications. The ability to fine-tune particle properties and manipulate them using magnetic fields offers new possibilities for creating complex tissue constructs and controlling cellular behavior, which could contribute to the development of more effective regenerative therapies and tissue engineering approaches.

In-vitro maturation (IVM) is the process of cultivating early-stage follicles from the primordial to the antral stage and facilitating the maturation of oocytes outside the body within a supportive environment. This intricate procedure requires the careful coordination of various factors to replicate the natural ovarian conditions. Advanced techniques for IVM are designed to mimic the natural ovarian environment and enhance the development of follicles. Three-dimensional (3D) culture systems provide a more biologically relevant setting for follicle growth compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures. Traditional culture systems, often fail to support the complex process of follicle development effectively. However, modern engineered reproductive tissues and culture systems are making it possible to create increasingly physiological in-vitro models of folliculogenesis. These innovative methods are enabling researchers and clinicians to better replicate the dynamic and supportive environment of the ovary, thereby improving the outcomes of IVM offering new hope for fertility preservation and treatment. This paper focuses on the routine 3D culture, and innovative 3D culture of ovary and follicles, including a tissue engineering scaffolds, microfluidic (dynamic) culture system, organ-on-chip models, EVATAR system, from a clinical perspective to determine the most effective approach for achieving in-vitro maturation of follicles. These techniques provide critical support for ovarian function in various ovarian-associated disorders, including primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), premature ovarian failure (POF), ovarian cancer, and age-related infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous implants osseointegrated into the residuum of a person with limb amputation need to provide mechanical stability and protection against infections. Although significant progress has been made in the biointegration of percutaneous implants, the problem of forming a reliable natural barrier at the level of the surface of the implant and the skin and bone tissues remains unresolved. The use of a microporous implant structure incorporated into the Skin and Bone Integrated Pylon (SBIP) should address the issue by allowing soft and bone tissues to grow directly into the implant structure itself, which, in turn, should form a reliable barrier to infections and support strong osseointegration. To evaluate biological interactions between dermal fibroblasts and MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts in vitro, small titanium discs (with varying pore sizes and volume fractions to achieve deep porosity) were fabricated via 3D printing and sintering. The cell viability MTT assay demonstrated low cytotoxicity for cells co-cultured in the pores of the 3D-printed and sintered Ti samples during the 14-day follow-up period. A subsequent Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of the relative gene expression of biomarkers that are associated with cell adhesion (α2, α5, αV, and β1 integrins) and extracellular matrix components (fibronectin, vitronectin, type I collagen) demonstrated that micropore sizes ranging from 200 to 500 µm of the 3D printed and sintered Ti discs were favorable for dermal fibroblast adhesion. For example, for representative 3D-printed Ti sample S6 at 72 h the values were 4.71 ± 0.08 (α2 integrin), 4.96 ± 0.08 (α5 integrin), 4.71 ± 0.08 (αV integrin), and 1.87 ± 0.12 (β1 integrin). In contrast, Ti discs with pore sizes ranging from 400 to 800 µm demonstrated the best results (in terms of marker expression related to osteogenic differentiation, including osteopontin, osteonectin, osteocalcin, TGF-β1, and SMAD4) for MC3T3-E1 cells. For example, for the representative 3D sample S4 on day 14, the marker levels were 11.19 ± 0.77 (osteopontin), 7.15 ± 0.29 (osteonectin), and 6.08 ± 0.12 (osteocalcin), while for sintered samples the levels of markers constituted 5.85 ± 0.4 (osteopontin), 4.45 ± 0.36 (osteonectin), and 4.46 ± 0.3 (osteocalcin). In conclusion, the data obtained show the high biointegrative properties of porous titanium structures, while the ability to implement several pore options in one structure using 3D printing makes it possible to create personalized implants for the best one-time integration with both skin and bone tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skin is crucial for homeostasis and body defense, requiring quick healing to maintain internal balance. Initially used for bone repair, calcium hydroxyapatite (HAp) is now being studied for soft tissue engineering. This literature review investigated HAp's role in tissue repair through searches on PubMed, Scopus (Elsevier), Science Direct, Springer Link, and Google Scholar databases without time restrictions, using keywords "hydroxyapatite AND skin AND wound" and "hydroxyapatite AND skin repair". Inclusion criteria encompassed in vivo studies in humans and animals, English publications, full access, and sufficient data on HAp's role in tissue repair. Exclusions included duplicates, unrelated articles, editor letters, reviews, comments, conference abstracts, dissertations, and theses. Out of the 472 articles initially identified, 139 met the inclusion criteria, with 21 focusing on HAp for tissue repair. Findings indicate that HAp and nano-HAp in skin regeneration are promising, especially when combined with other biomaterials, offering antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits and stimulating angiogenesis. This suggests their potential application in dermatology, surgery, and dentistry, extending HAp's versatility from hard tissues to enhancing critical properties for soft tissue repair and accelerating healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteochondral lesions may be due to trauma or congenital conditions. In both cases, therapy is limited because of the difficulty of tissue repair. Tissue engineering is a promising approach that relies on designed scaffolds with variable mechanical attributes to favor cell attachment and differentiation. Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) are a very promising cell source in regenerative medicine with osteochondrogenic potential. Based on the assumption that stiffness influences cell commitment, we investigated three different scaffolds: a semisynthetic animal-derived GelMA hydrogel, a combined scaffold made of rigid PEGDA coated with a thin GelMA layer and a decellularized plant-based scaffold. We investigated the role of different biomechanical stimulations in the scaffold-induced osteochondral differentiation of hASCs. We demonstrated that all scaffolds support cell viability and spontaneous osteochondral differentiation without any exogenous factors. In particular, we observed mainly osteogenic commitment in higher stiffness microenvironments, as in the plant-based one, whereas in a dense and softer matrix, such as in GelMA hydrogel or GelMA-coated-PEGDA scaffold, chondrogenesis prevailed. We can induce a specific cell commitment by combining hASCs and scaffolds with particular mechanical attributes. However, in vivo studies are needed to fully elucidate the regenerative process and to eventually suggest it as a potential approach for regenerative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corneal diseases, which can result in substantial visual impairment and loss of vision, are an important worldwide health issue. The aim of this review was to investigate the novel application of bioscaffolds in stem cell and regenerative treatments for the treatment of corneal disorders. The current literature reports that organic and artificial substances create bioscaffolds that imitate the inherent structure of the cornea, facilitating the attachment, growth, and specialization of stem cells. Sophisticated methods such as electrospinning, 3D bioprinting, and surface modification have been reported to enhance the characteristics of the scaffold. These bioscaffolds have been shown to greatly improve the survival of stem cells and facilitate the regrowth of corneal tissue in both laboratory and live animal experiments. In addition, the incorporation of growth factors and bioactive compounds within the scaffolds can promote a favorable milieu for corneal regeneration. To summarize, the advancement of these groundbreaking bioscaffolds presents a hopeful treatment strategy for the regeneration of the cornea, which has the potential to enhance the results for individuals suffering from corneal disorders. This study highlights the possibility of utilizing the fields of biomaterials science and stem cell treatment to tackle medical demands that have not yet been satisfied in the field of ophthalmology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomaterials play an important role in treating bone defects. The functional characteristics of scaffolds, such as their structure, mechanical strength, and antibacterial and osteogenesis activities, effectively promote bone regeneration. In this study, mineralized collagen and polycaprolactone were used to prepare loaded porous scaffolds with bilayer-structured microspheres with dual antibacterial and osteogenesis functions. The different drug release mechanisms of PLGA and chitosan in PLGA/CS microspheres caused differences in the drug release models in terms of the duration and rate of Pac-525 and BMP-2 release. The prepared PLGA(BMP-2)/CS(Pac-525)@MC/PCL scaffolds were analyzed in terms of physical characteristics, bioactivity, and antibacterial properties. The scaffolds with a dimensional porous structure showed similar porosity and pore diameter to cancellous bone. The release curve of the microspheres and scaffolds with high encapsulation rates displayed the two-stage release of Pac-525 and BMP-2 over 30 days. It was found that the scaffolds could inhibit S. aureus and E. coli and then promote ALP activity. The PLGA(BMP-2)/CS(Pac-525)@MC/PCL scaffold could be used as a dual delivery system to promote bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteomyelitis is a complex infectious disease caused by bacterial infection, which has always been a difficult problem for clinical orthopedic surgeons. Although the traditional methods are effective in treating osteomyelitis, the heavy use of antibiotics and surgical treatment cause serious side effects and lead to bone loss and healing difficulties after surgery. Chitosan (CS), a natural polymer material, is a deacetylated derivative of chitin, which has good biodegradability, antibacterial, and osteogenic properties, and has been widely used in the treatment of osteomyelitis. In this review, the recent research progress in the application of CS based composites such as micro-nano drug delivery carriers, hydrogels, coating materials, and bone tissue engineering scaffolds for the treatment of osteomyelitis is summarized, in order to provide certain experimental and theoretical support for the development of CS based composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alginates are salts of alginic acid derived mainly from sea algae of the genus brown algae. They are also synthesized by some bacteria. They belong to negatively charged polysaccharides exhibiting some rheological properties. High plasticity and the ability to modify the structure are the reasons for their application in numerous industries. Moreover, when in contact with the living tissue, they do not trigger an immune response, and for this reason they are the most often tested materials for medical applications. The paper discusses the latest applications, including 3D bioprinting, drug delivery systems, and sorptive properties. Recognizing alginates as biomaterials, it emphasizes the necessity for precise processing and modification to industrialize them for specific uses. This review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the advancements in alginate research, underscoring their potential for innovative applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biochemical and physical properties of a scaffold can be tailored to elicit specific cellular responses. However, it is challenging to decouple their individual effects on cell‐material interactions. Here, we solvent‐cast 3D printed different ratios of high and low molecular weight (MW) poly(caprolactone) (PCL) to fabricate scaffolds with significantly different stiffnesses without affecting other properties. Ink viscosity was used to match processing conditions between inks and generate scaffolds with the same surface chemistry, crystallinity, filament diameter, and architecture. Increasing the ratio of low MW PCL resulted in a significant decrease in modulus. Scaffold modulus did not affect human mesenchymal stromal cell (hMSC) differentiation under osteogenic conditions. However, hMSC response was significantly affected by scaffold stiffness in chondrogenic media. Low stiffness promoted more stable chondrogenesis whereas high stiffness drove hMSC progression toward hypertrophy. These data illustrate how this versatile platform can be used to independently modify biochemical and physical cues in a single scaffold to synergistically enhance desired cellular response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteins are one of the most prevalent components of the extracellular matrix, which are used in bone tissue engineering for construction of scaffolds. Due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-immunogenicity and having cell motifs (cell recognition sites), they are capable of providing cell adhesion and favorable scaffold-cell interactions. However, proteins have crucial disadvantages, including lack of mechanical strength required for bone regeneration, as well as rapid degradation rate, which have restricted their implementation as a sole component in the construction of scaffolds. To overcome such disadvantages and at the same time, benefit from their properties, proteins are combined with other materials, such as carbohydrates and synthetic polymers and glass-ceramides. This review summarizes different types of protein hybrid scaffolds for bone tissue engineering and also discusses the function and significance of proteins in bone regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyepicatechin (PEC) in a hydrogel has previously shown promise in enhancing physiological properties and scaffold preparation. However, it remains unclear whether PEC-based fibers can be applied in skin tissue engineering (STE). This study aimed to synthesize and characterize electrospun PEC physical gels and polylactic acid (PLA) scaffolds (PLAloadedPECsub) for potential use as constructs with human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). PEC was produced through enzymatic polymerization, as confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated the feasibility of producing PLAloadedPECsub by electrospinning. The metabolic activity and viability of HDFs cocultured with the scaffolds indicate that PLAloadedPECsub is promising for the use of STE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of the biocompatibility of collagen and the remote-control ability of magnetic elements serves as both a cell scaffold and an actuator. We studied the preparation, characterization, and potential applications of collagen–magnetic particle composite microbeads (CMPMBs). The interplay among collagen concentration, particle size, and surface roughness was found to influence cell adhesion and proliferation. Adsorption and desorption tests showed the reversible attachment of the particles to magnetic sheets, enabling precise spatial control and targeted cell delivery. The particles demonstrated their utility as cell carriers, supporting cell migration and proliferation. These findings showcase the potential of CMPMBs as a promising platform for advanced cell delivery and tissue regeneration applications. The ability to fine-tune particle properties and manipulate them using magnetic fields offers new possibilities for creating complex tissue constructs and controlling cellular behavior, which could contribute to the development of more effective regenerative therapies and tissue engineering approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]