Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine

Lulla, Philipp; Esper, Lukas; Noster, Ulf; Schratzenstaller, Thomas; Schmid, Christof; Lehle, Karla

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07073-8pmid: 42204012

New developments are needed in aortic replacement, with current hybrid solutions suffering from insufficient and rigid stent diameters, thus hindering minimization of false lumen in aortic dissection. Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) is an attractive method to generate a new-generation aortic stent. This study investigates the effects of 316 L stainless steel samples manufactured using the L-PBF process on the activity of fibroblasts, red blood cells, leukocytes and platelets on the modified surfaces. Cytotoxicity and hemocompatibility were analyzed under static culture conditions using immunofluorescence as well as scanning electron microscopic (SEM) techniques. Surfaces of additively manufactured samples were etched, electropolished, heat‑treated, and mechanically expanded to optimize the material’s mechanical performance. Alone heat treatment increased the ultimate tensile strength from 585 ± 5 MPa to 695 ± 6 MPa. The additive manufactured and post-processed stents were non-cytotoxic (viability, > 70%, independent of the manufacturing status), non-hemolytic (hemolysis rate, < 1%), and were covered with only a few neutrophils (median (IQR), 25 (12-48) per mm2) and platelets (cellular coverage, 0.5 - 10%). Material-induced formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was low and not quantifiable. More than 80% of adherent platelets presented an activated conformation and increased expression of CD62P. In contrast, neither circulating leukocytes nor platelets in the supernatant showed any material-induced stimulation as detected via flow cytometry. The results described herein are encouraging and suggest that additive manufactured metallic stents are bio- and hemocompatible and an adequate candidate material for personalized stent production in a very short time.[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Cahyani, Devy Maulidya; Piyambudi, Paskalis Yosna; Sari, Retno; Darmawati, Asri; Hariawan, Berlian Sarasitha; Anjani, Qonita Kurnia; Sahu, Ram Kumar; Hendradi, Esti; Miatmoko, Andang

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07021-6pmid: 41761013

Niosomes are known to improve the bioavailability of drugs. However, niosomes have drawbacks related to stability and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Chitosan coating on niosomes can increase their stability in gastrointestinal fluid and absorption after oral administration. This study aimed to evaluate the biopharmaceutical stability and oral absorption of chitosan-coated Ursolic acid niosomes in vivo. Niosomes Ursolic Acid (Nio-UA) were prepared using a thin-layer hydration method, and chitosan was added to produce Niosomes Ursolic Acid with chitosan coating (Nio-UA-CS). The stability of niosomes was evaluated by exposing them to simulated gastrointestinal fluid. The oral absorption and biodistribution were determined in vivo. The results showed that niosome formation increased UA solubility from 1.02 × 10–4 mg/mL to 23.49 × 10–3 mg/mL for Nio-UA and 22.34 × 10–3 mg/mL for Nio-UA-CS and decreased the LogP value of UA from 5.18 ± 0.05 to 1.70 ± 0.22 for Nio-UA and 1.74 ± 0.30 for Nio-UA-CS. Adding chitosan layers increased the stability of the niosome, resulting in the lowest %cumulative calcein release of 7.05 ± 1.77% in Nio-UA-CS after exposure to simulated gastric fluid and 31.53 ± 8.80% after exposure to simulated intestinal fluid. Chitosan-coated niosomes exhibited higher absorption in the duodenum. Moreover, photomicrographs revealed that UA niosomes with a chitosan layer were highly accumulated in the liver 4 h after oral administration. A biodistribution study revealed that chitosan coating increased the plasma concentration of UA and selective hepatic accumulation. Thus, the chitosan layer successfully improved the oral absorption of UA niosomes, providing potential uses of nanoparticles for improving drugs’ bioavailability.Graphical Abstract[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Mahmoudi, N.; Eslahi, N.; Mehdipour, A.; Mohammadi, M.; Akbari, M.; Samadikuchaksaraei, A.; Simchi, A.

doi: 10.1007/s10856-025-06892-5pmid: 42047883

Shalghouni, Mahla Shahabi; Nouri Khorasani, Saied; Khalili, Shahla; Hafezi, Mahshid; Sattari-Najafabadi, Mehdi; Neisiany, Rasoul Esmaeely

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07019-0pmid: 41721076

N-carboxyethyl chitosan (CECS) and sodium alginate oxide (SAO) are two biomaterials extensively used in tissue engineering, particularly in wound dressing (WD) applications. Nonetheless, these materials exhibit certain limitations such as inadequate physicomechanical properties, limited antibacterial activity in non-acidic environments, and insolubilityunder physiological condition. This study introduces an injectable self-healing hydrogel composed of CECS and SAO, improved with hydrophilic nanomaterials, i.e., cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, to address the inherent drawbacks of these hydrogels. The CECS/SAO/CNFs/CuO hydrogels were analyzed by varying the CNFs concentration (0, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15 wt.%) and CuO nanoparticles content (0, 0.008, 0.020, 0.032 wt.%). Physicomechanical properties (compressive modulus and strength, % degradation, swelling, and pore size), rheological characteristics, and biological performance (assessed by fibroblast cell growth, adhesion, and live-dead tests) of the hydrogels were evaluated. The findings indicated that the CECS/SAO hydrogel containing 0.10% CNFs and 0.032% CuO nanoparticles exhibited appropriate physical properties (2259% swelling after 1 h, 22.3% degradation after 6 days, and 151 µm pore size), compressive modulus (22.31 kPa), shear thinning behavior, and biological viability (more than 90% after 3 days), while ensuring adequate injectability and proper self-healing. The antibacterial property of the hydrogel against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was observed to be higher than 99.5%. These results highlight the significant potential of the CCH/SAO/CNFs/CuO hydrogel for wound dressing applications.[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Rajzer, Izabella; Novotna, Renata; Kurowska, Anna; Janusz, Jarosław; Fabia, Janusz; Jabłoński, Adam; Piekarczyk, Wojciech; Castano, Oscar; Ziąbka, Magdalena; Frankova, Jana

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07047-wpmid: 42029947

Significant clinical challenges are posed by large bone defects, necessitating the use of scaffolds that combine mechanical stability with osteoinductive properties. While polycaprolactone (PCL) lends itself well to 3D printing, its limited bioactivity means it needs to be modified with bioactive additives. Various additives have been proposed to enhance PCL scaffolds, but a systematic comparative evaluation of their mechanical and biological effects is lacking. This hinders the optimal selection of materials for specific applications. In this study, we compared the effects of four additives—silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), osteogenon (OST), zinc oxide (ZnO) and vitroceramic calcium phosphate (CaPNPs)—when incorporated at a concentration of 0.5 wt% into 3D-printed PCL scaffolds. We comprehensively evaluated the mechanical properties, thermal characteristics, and osteoblast biocompatibility using tensile testing, differential scanning calorimetry, and SaOS-2 cell culture assays (MTT test, activity of alkaline phosphatase, production of collagen I and fluorescent staining with acridine orange or phalloidin). ZnO modification significantly enhanced the mechanical properties (834% strain at break versus 658% for pure PCL and an increased Young’s modulus), as well as supporting cell viability (87 and 85%). Meanwhile, CaPNPs demonstrated the highest level of early-stage cell viability (103% after 24 h), although this was not statistically significant. All additives exhibited non-cytotoxic profiles with >80% cell viability and demonstrated time-dependent increases in alkaline phosphatase activity, but further evaluation for clinical application is essential. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for selecting PCL scaffold additives based on specific application requirements: ZnO is optimal for mechanically demanding applications, while CaPNPs could be optimal for facilitating rapid cell integration.Graphical Abstract[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Arzine, Aziz; Azzaoui, Khalil; Faiz, Khaoula; Kachbou, Yousra; Nakkabi, Asmae; Louasté, Bouchra; Mague, Joel T.; Hammouti, Belkheir; Merzouki, Mohammed; Hamdoun, Ghanem; Duong, Adam; Jodeh, Shehdeh; El Yazidi, Mohamed

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07052-zpmid: 42029821

In this study, an innovative methodology was implemented to combine an isoxazole derivative (ARZ) with hydroxyapatite (HAp), varying several parameters to obtain three distinct composites (ARZ-Hap-1, ARZ-Hap-2 and ARZ-Hap-3). These composites (ARZ-Hap) were synthesized by a dissolution-recrystallization process, thereby facilitating enhanced interaction between ARZ and HAp. This approach promoted homogeneous dispersion of ARZ within the HAp matrix, consequently enhancing the stability and functionality of the resulting materials. The structural characterization of these composites was determined by FT-IR, XRD, BET, TGA, and NMR (¹³C, ³¹P) methods. Subsequently, the composites were subjected to a rigorous evaluation process to ascertain their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Among them, ARZ-HAp-3 exhibited noticeable antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis, demonstrating a measurable inhibitory effect on bacterial growth. In terms of antifungal activity, this composite demonstrated the best results, particularly against C. albicans and F. oxysporum, with minimal MIC and MFC values comparable to those of fluconazole. These results indicate the potential of the ARZ-HAp-3 composite as a promising bioactive material, demonstrating a combination of structural efficiency and targeted biological activity. The release of ARZ from the composites was monitored by UV-Visible spectroscopy, revealing a gradual and controlled profile. The quantity of the substance released is proportional to the initial content of ARZ, with a maximum observed for ARZ-Hap-3 (~900 mg/L). This mechanism, based on slow diffusion, confirms the potential of these materials for sustained release of active ingredients. Furthermore, a molecular docking analysis was conducted to explore potential interactions between ARZ and biological targets associated with the pathogens studied. The results of the study indicated a high binding affinity of ARZ with certain enzymes that are essential for bacterial and fungal survival. This finding corroborates the experimental observations made in the study, thereby providing a scientific rationale for the observed effects.[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Shimada, Nanako; Hirata, Azumi; Yamada, Shinichi; Ishizuka, Taka-Aki; Inoue, Kazuya; Kato-Kogoe, Nahoko; Ueno, Takaaki

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07003-8pmid: 41565890

This study histologically evaluated the biomineralization process during bone regeneration and the in vivo behavior of a collagen sheet used as scaffolding in a rat 5-mm calvarial defect model. Two experimental groups were established: a group using collagen sheet and bone substitute (BC group), and a group using bone substitute alone (BO group). Bone regeneration was assessed by computed tomography (CT) and both decalcified and undecalcified sections were analyzed using histological staining (hematoxylin and eosin, Villanueva-Goldner [VG], von Kossa, and Join of the Five dyes Revealing CoLlagenous tissue [JFRL]), immunohistochemistry, polarized light microscopy, and low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy (LV-SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). CT revealed time-dependent defect reductions, progressing significantly faster in the BC group. In undecalcified specimens, VG staining demonstrated a thick, red, osteoid layer, and serial sections stained with von Kossa showed granular blackish-brown deposits within this layer. LV-SEM/EDX confirmed localized Ca/P accumulation in these deposits, indicating initial biomineralization foci. In decalcified JFRL-stained sections, JFRL color profiles corresponded to gray-scale contrast in LV-SEM images, reflecting collagen fibril organization and the degree of biomineralization. Polarized observation of undecalcified, VG-stained, polished sections revealed the emergence and temporal expansion of orange birefringence within the transplanted collagen sheet and surrounding connective tissue. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated BrdU-, Runx2-, and osterix-positive cells, and osteopontin localization within newly formed matrix in the defect, indicating active osteoblastogenesis. Collagen sheets appear to function not only as physical scaffolding, but also as a bioactive matrix promoting biomineralization by modulating cellular activity and matrix remodeling.[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Wei, Huan; Riedel, Tomáš; Riedelová, Zuzana; Wolf, Melanie; Schlensak, Christian; Avci-Adali, Meltem

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07087-2pmid: 42287486

Flow diverters play an important role in the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms; however, their use can be associated with thromboembolic complications. Thus, in recent years, flow diverters with surface coatings have been developed to prevent thrombus-related complications. In this study, the hemocompatibility of the flow diverters FRED X with poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) coating and the DERIVO 2heal with fibrin/heparin coating, as well as the uncoated DERIVO 2 flow diverter, was evaluated using an in vitro blood circulation model. Using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), biomarkers of thrombocytes (β-thromboglobulin (β-TG)), coagulation (thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT)), complement system (SC5b-9), and inflammation (PMN elastase) activation were analyzed. Further analyses comprised thrombogenicity assessment by scanning electron microscopy and measurement of blood cell counts and hemolysis. The uncoated DERIVO 2 flow diverter exhibited increased coagulation and platelet activation, accompanied by enhanced adhesion of platelets to the blood-contacting surfaces. In contrast, both the FRED X and the DERIVO 2-heal flow diverter could effectively reduce the coagulation (TAT) and platelet activation (β-TG) and prevent the adhesion of platelets. Notably, DERIVO 2heal flow diverter induced significantly lower activation of the complement system (SC5b-9) and reduced inflammatory response (PMN elastase) compared to FRED X flow diverter. These findings indicate the improved hemocompatibility of the fibrin/heparin-coated DERIVO 2heal flow diverter and its potential to reduce thromboinflammatory complications.Graphical Abstract[graphic not available: see fulltext]

Rao, Yujie; Xiao, Minghe; Luo, Wangdu; Feng, Kevin; Yu, Junlong; Chen, Yi; Zhu, Xiaomin; Xu, Shicui; Yuan, Shuang; Liu, Hong; Hutnik, Cindy; Wang, Yong; Li, Xiangji; Xie, Lin

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07008-3pmid: 41611892

The uveoscleral outflow pathway is one of the important pathways for aqueous humor outflow. Implanting ab interno glaucoma drainage devices through this pathway does not require conjunctival filtering bleb formation, thereby avoiding bleb-related complications. However, permanent drainage devices can easily cause damage to the corneal endothelium. We hypothesize that a novel ab interno supraciliary HA-Mg biodegradable glaucoma drainage plate through the uveoscleral pathway can reduce corneal endothelial cell damage, demonstrate an IOP-lowering effect, and form and maintain a physiological aqueous outflow pathway after complete degradation and absorption. Sixteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to three groups: HA-Mg drainage plate group (10 right eyes), trabeculectomy group (6 right eyes), and control group (16 left eyes). Results showed that the intraocular pressure (IOP) in the ab interno plate group was significantly lower than in the other two groups within the first 20 weeks after surgery (P < 0.0001). After 21 weeks, the IOP in the ab interno plate group gradually returned to the levels of the other two groups. Within 5 months after surgery, the plate was completely degraded and absorbed, the aqueous humor drainage pathway extended to the supraciliary space at the anterior chamber angle, and a water sac-like gap formed above the ciliary body. At the 6th month postoperatively, the number of corneal endothelial cells in the ab interno supraciliary HA-Mg drainage plate group was 2446.0 ± 104.3, and in the control group was 2391.67 ± 49.6, revealing no statistically significant difference (t = −1.611, P = 0.168). In summary, the HA-Mg biodegradable glaucoma drainage plate placement in rabbits was well fixed in the supraciliary space. After 5 months of implantation, the internal drainage plate was completely absorbed, and the implantation procedure and degradation process did not cause damage to the corneal endothelial cells. Compared with the trabeculectomy group, the ab interno plate group maintained a significantly lower IOP for a longer period in this normotensive rabbit model. Although an aqueous humor drainage channel was formed after degradation, the IOP gradually returned to the levels of the control group.Graphical AbstractWe developed a biodegradable material hydroxyapatite coated magnesium (HA-Mg) as a glaucoma drainage device. The device is implanted into the supraciliary space, where it effectively reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) and gradually degrades. After complete degradation, a functional drainage pathway remains, without causing corneal endothelial damage.[graphic not available: see fulltext]

He, Yujiao; Xie, Rongxiang

doi: 10.1007/s10856-026-07014-5pmid: 42010085

BackgroundStroke is a class of acute cerebrovascular diseases, among which ischaemic stroke is characterized by high morbidity and high recurrence rate. Due to multiple pathological mechanisms, it is very easy to cause cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury (RI). To quickly and effectively regulate the complex and variable cerebral immune microenvironment (IM) and reduce RI, the study aims to use a versatile immunosuppressive nanosystem (VIN) to efficiently remodel the overactivated brain IM and alleviate RI, thereby enhancing the effects of ischemic stroke (IS). Methods: The study first induced high expression of CXCR4 receptor in rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell membranes using Fe3O4 nanoparticles, then extracted the cell membranes by hypotonic lysis and repeated freeze-thawing and reconstituted using ultrasound to form engineered bionic decoy vesicles. Next, polydopamine nanoparticles were prepared by oxidative self-polymerization, using Zn2+ as a bridge to obtain A151-loaded polydopamine nanoparticles. Finally, it was reconstituted with engineered bionic decoy vesicles using ultrasonic cavitation to prepare a VIN integrated with engineered bionic decoys. Results: It was shown that Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) could significantly increase the expression level of CXCR4 receptor. In rats treated by the VIN group, the body weight had increased to near the normal level by day 7, and the infarct area was reduced by 89.4%. The results showed that VIN was able to effectively reduce the volume of cerebral ischemic infarction in rats in long-term treatment, and had a good therapeutic effect on IS. Conclusion: The study achieved internal and external synergistic immunosuppressive effects to effectively and safely regulate the excessive IM after reperfusion, which provides a new idea to alleviate ischaemia-RI.[graphic not available: see fulltext]