Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications

A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomimetic Design, Constructions and Devices".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 January 2024) | Viewed by 18399

Special Issue Editor

Key Laboratory of Mechanism Theory and Equipment Design of Ministry of Education, School of Mechanical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300354, China
Interests: biofabrication; biomaterials; antibacterial materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce a new Special Issue collection titled “Functional Biomimetic Materials and Devices for Biomedical Applications”, for which we will collect research articles, review articles, and short communications which are invited by the field of the leading journal of Biomimetics.

Recently, the functional biomimetic materials and devices have attracted much interest because they possess remarkable properties, such as a super-hydrophobic or super-hydrophilic ability, anti-fouling ability, anti-bacterial adhesion ability, bactericidal ability, good cell affinity, etc. Thus, researchers have started to explore the potential applications of these promising functional biomimetic materials and devices in biomedical fields, including orthopedics, dentistry, antibacterial biomaterials, anticancer biomaterials, and so on.

This Special Issue aims to call for contributions from researchers and thinkers in all realms of functional biomimetic materials and devices and welcomes theoretical, experimental, and review contributions from biomimeticians, physicists, biologists, material scientists, mathematicians, doctors, and engineers alike who are engaged and interested in this fast-growing field. All papers will be published in an open access format following a peer review.

Dr. Xiang Ge
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. Biomimetics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly 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 2200 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

  • biomimetic surface modification
  • dental and orthopedic implants
  • micro-/nano-structured surfaces
  • biofabrication
  • bio-manufacturing
  • biomedical
  • biomaterials
  • metals
  • ceramics
  • polymers
  • composites
  • hydrogels
  • antibacterial
  • anti-infection
  • anti-inflammation
  • anticancer
  • antitumor
  • biomineralization
  • additive manufacturing
  • 3D printing
  • biomimetic devices
  • wearable devices

Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 11132 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Studies Regarding the Effect of Cellulose Acetate-Based Composite Coatings on the Functional Properties of the Biodegradable Mg3Nd Alloys
by Alexandru Streza, Aurora Antoniac, Veronica Manescu (Paltanea), Robert Ciocoiu, Cosmin-Mihai Cotrut, Marian Miculescu, Florin Miculescu, Iulian Antoniac, Marco Fosca, Julietta V. Rau and Horatiu Dura
Biomimetics 2023, 8(7), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8070526 - 04 Nov 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1411
Abstract
Magnesium (Mg) alloys are adequate materials for orthopedic and maxilo-facial implants due to their biocompatibility, good mechanical properties closely related to the hard tissues, and processability. Their main drawbacks are the high-speed corrosion process and hydrogen release. In order to improve corrosion and [...] Read more.
Magnesium (Mg) alloys are adequate materials for orthopedic and maxilo-facial implants due to their biocompatibility, good mechanical properties closely related to the hard tissues, and processability. Their main drawbacks are the high-speed corrosion process and hydrogen release. In order to improve corrosion and mechanical properties, the Mg matrix can be strengthened through alloying elements with high temperature-dependent solubility materials. Rare earth elements (RE) contribute to mechanical properties and degradation improvement. Another possibility to reduce the corrosion rate of Mg-based alloys was demonstrated to be the different types of coatings (bioceramics, polymers, and composites) applied on their surface. The present investigation is related to the coating of two Mg-based alloys from the system Mg3Nd (Mg-Nd-Y-Zr-Zn) with polymeric-based composite coatings made from cellulose acetate (CA) combined with two fillers, respectively hydroxyapatite (HAp) and Mg particles. The main functions of the coatings are to reduce the biodegradation rate and to modify the surface properties in order to increase osteointegration. Firstly, the microstructural features of the experimental Mg3Nd alloys were revealed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Apart from the surface morphology revealed by SEM, the roughness and wettability of all experimental samples were evaluated. The corrosion behavior of the uncoated and coated samples of both Mg3Nd alloys was investigated by immersion testing and electrochemical testing using Simulated Body Fluid as the medium. The complex in vitro research performed highlights that the composite coating based on CA with HAp particles exhibited the best protective effect for both Mg3Nd alloys. Full article
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17 pages, 8204 KiB  
Article
Advancements in Composite Materials and Their Expanding Role in Biomedical Applications
by Sivakamavalli Jeyachandran, Hethesh Chellapandian and Nemat Ali
Biomimetics 2023, 8(7), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8070518 - 01 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1307
Abstract
The synthesis of a Ni-doped ZnO nanocomposite incorporating chitosan (CS/Ni-doped ZnO) was achieved via a precipitation method, followed by annealing at 250 °C. This study comprehensively examined the nanocomposite’s structural, functional, morphological, and porosity properties using various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), [...] Read more.
The synthesis of a Ni-doped ZnO nanocomposite incorporating chitosan (CS/Ni-doped ZnO) was achieved via a precipitation method, followed by annealing at 250 °C. This study comprehensively examined the nanocomposite’s structural, functional, morphological, and porosity properties using various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. The presence of chitosan (CS) and nickel (Ni) within the nanocomposite, along with their influence on reducing the band gap of ZnO particles and enhancing the generation of electron-hole pairs, was confirmed using UV-visible near-infrared spectroscopy (UV-vis-NIR). The electrochemical properties of the CS/Ni-doped ZnO nanocomposite were investigated via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) by utilizing a phosphate buffer solution with a pH of 6, which closely resembled the typical pH of bacterial cell walls. Finally, the prepared CS/Ni-doped ZnO nanocomposite was evaluated for its antibacterial and anticancer activities. The results demonstrated the highest inhibition of bacterial growth in P. vulgaris, whereas the lowest inhibition was found in S. aureus across various concentrations, thus highlighting its potential in antimicrobial applications. The cytotoxicity of CS/Ni-doped ZnO nanocomposites demonstrated remarkable effects with a half-maximum inhibitory concentration of approximately 80 ± 0.23 µg mL−1 against MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines, following a dose-dependent manner. Full article
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14 pages, 3947 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Fixations for Additively Manufactured Cranial Implants: Insights from Finite Element Analysis
by Fariha Haque, Anthony F. Luscher, Kerry-Ann S. Mitchell and Alok Sutradhar
Biomimetics 2023, 8(6), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8060498 - 19 Oct 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1268
Abstract
With the emergence of additive manufacturing technology, patient-specific cranial implants using 3D printing have massively influenced the field. These implants offer improved surgical outcomes and aesthetic preservation. However, as additive manufacturing in cranial implants is still emerging, ongoing research is investigating their reliability [...] Read more.
With the emergence of additive manufacturing technology, patient-specific cranial implants using 3D printing have massively influenced the field. These implants offer improved surgical outcomes and aesthetic preservation. However, as additive manufacturing in cranial implants is still emerging, ongoing research is investigating their reliability and sustainability. The long-term biomechanical performance of these implants is critically influenced by factors such as implant material, anticipated loads, implant-skull interface geometry, and structural constraints, among others. The efficacy of cranial implants involves an intricate interplay of these factors, with fixation playing a pivotal role. This study addresses two critical concerns: determining the ideal number of fixation points for cranial implants and the optimal curvilinear distance between those points, thereby establishing a minimum threshold. Employing finite element analysis, the research incorporates variables such as implant shapes, sizes, materials, the number of fixation points, and their relative positions. The study reveals that the optimal number of fixation points ranges from four to five, accounting for defect size and shape. Moreover, the optimal curvilinear distance between two screws is approximately 40 mm for smaller implants and 60 mm for larger implants. Optimal fixation placement away from the center mitigates higher deflection due to overhangs. Notably, a symmetric screw orientation reduces deflection, enhancing implant stability. The findings offer crucial insights into optimizing fixation strategies for cranial implants, thereby aiding surgical decision-making guidelines. Full article
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15 pages, 10556 KiB  
Article
New PMMA-Based Hydroxyapatite/ZnFe2O4/ZnO Composite with Antibacterial Performance and Low Toxicity
by Olga Bakina, Natalia Svarovskaya, Ludmila Ivanova, Elena Glazkova, Nikolay Rodkevich, Vladyslav Evstigneev, Maxim Evstigneev, Andrey Mosunov and Marat Lerner
Biomimetics 2023, 8(6), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8060488 - 14 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1234
Abstract
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is the most commonly used bone void filler in orthopedic surgery. However, the biocompatibility and radiopacity of PMMA are insufficient for such applications. In addition to insufficient biocompatibility, the microbial infection of medical implants is one of the frequent causes of [...] Read more.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is the most commonly used bone void filler in orthopedic surgery. However, the biocompatibility and radiopacity of PMMA are insufficient for such applications. In addition to insufficient biocompatibility, the microbial infection of medical implants is one of the frequent causes of failure in bone reconstruction. In the present work, the preparation of a novel PMMA-based hydroxyapatite/ZnFe2O4/ZnO composite with heterophase ZnFe2O4/ZnO NPs as an antimicrobial agent was described. ZnFe2O4/ZnO nanoparticles were produced using the electrical explosion of zinc and iron twisted wires in an oxygen-containing atmosphere. This simple, highly productive, and inexpensive nanoparticle fabrication approach could be readily adapted to different applications. From the findings, the presented composite material showed significant antibacterial activity (more than 99% reduction) against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and MRSA, and 100% antifungal activity against C. albicans, as a result of the combined use of both ZnO and ZnFe2O4. The composite showed excellent biocompatibility against the sensitive fibroblast cell line 3T3. The more-than-70% cell viability was observed after 1–3 days incubation of the sample. The developed composite material could be a potential material for the fabrication of 3D-printed implants. Full article
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16 pages, 4579 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial Calcium Phosphate Coatings for Biomedical Applications Fabricated via Micro-Arc Oxidation
by Anna I. Kozelskaya, Ksenia N. Verzunova, Igor O. Akimchenko, Johannes Frueh, Vsevolod I. Petrov, Galina B. Slepchenko, Olga V. Bakina, Marat I. Lerner, Leonid K. Brizhan, Denis V. Davydov, Artur A. Kerimov, Elena G. Cherempey, Sergey E. Krylov, Sven Rutkowski and Sergei I. Tverdokhlebov
Biomimetics 2023, 8(5), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8050444 - 21 Sep 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1264
Abstract
A promising method for improving the functional properties of calcium-phosphate coatings is the incorporation of various antibacterial additives into their structure. The microbial contamination of a superficial wound is inevitable, even if the rules of asepsis and antisepsis are optimally applied. One of [...] Read more.
A promising method for improving the functional properties of calcium-phosphate coatings is the incorporation of various antibacterial additives into their structure. The microbial contamination of a superficial wound is inevitable, even if the rules of asepsis and antisepsis are optimally applied. One of the main problems is that bacteria often become resistant to antibiotics over time. However, this does not apply to certain elements, chemical compounds and drugs with antimicrobial properties. In this study, the fabrication and properties of zinc-containing calcium-phosphate coatings that were formed via micro-arc oxidation from three different electrolyte solutions are investigated. The first electrolyte is based on calcium oxide, the second on hydroxyapatite and the third on calcium acetate. By adding zinc oxide to the three electrolyte solutions, antibacterial properties of the coatings are achieved. Although the same amount of zinc oxide has been added to each electrolyte solution, the zinc concentration in the coatings obtained vary greatly. Furthermore, this study investigates the morphology, structure and chemical composition of the coatings. The antibacterial properties of the zinc-containing coatings were tested toward three strains of bacteria—Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Coatings of calcium acetate and zinc oxide contained the highest amount of zinc and displayed the highest zinc release. Moreover, coatings containing hydroxyapatite and zinc oxide show the highest antibacterial activity toward Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and coatings containing calcium acetate and zinc oxide show the highest antibacterial activities toward Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Full article
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17 pages, 6116 KiB  
Article
The Effects of a Biomimetic Hybrid Meso- and Nano-Scale Surface Topography on Blood and Protein Recruitment in a Computational Fluid Dynamics Implant Model
by Hiroaki Kitajima, Makoto Hirota, Kohei Osawa, Toshinori Iwai, Kenji Mitsudo, Juri Saruta and Takahiro Ogawa
Biomimetics 2023, 8(4), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8040376 - 18 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1019
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying bone-implant integration, or osseointegration, are still incompletely understood, in particular how blood and proteins are recruited to implant surfaces. The objective of this study was to visualize and quantify the flow of blood and the model protein fibrinogen using a [...] Read more.
The mechanisms underlying bone-implant integration, or osseointegration, are still incompletely understood, in particular how blood and proteins are recruited to implant surfaces. The objective of this study was to visualize and quantify the flow of blood and the model protein fibrinogen using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) implant model. Implants with screws were designed with three different surface topographies: (1) amorphous, (2) nano-trabecular, and (3) hybrid meso-spikes and nano-trabeculae. The implant with nano-topography recruited more blood and fibrinogen to the implant interface than the amorphous implant. Implants with hybrid topography further increased recruitment, with particularly efficient recruitment from the thread area to the interface. Blood movement significantly slowed at the implant interface compared with the thread area for all implants. The blood velocity at the interface was 3- and 4-fold lower for the hybrid topography compared with the nano-topography and amorphous surfaces, respectively. Thus, this study for the first time provides insights into how different implant surfaces regulate blood dynamics and the potential advantages of surface texturization in blood and protein recruitment and retention. In particular, co-texturization with a hybrid meso- and nano-topography created the most favorable microenvironment. The established CFD model is simple, low-cost, and expected to be useful for a wide range of studies designing and optimizing implants at the macro and micro levels. Full article
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15 pages, 5055 KiB  
Article
The Sequential and Systemic Administration of BMP-2 and SDF-1α Nanocapsules for Promoting Osteoporotic Fracture Healing
by Xiaolei Sun, Xueping Li, Peng Tian, Jin Zhao, Hou Xin, Xinlong Ma and Xubo Yuan
Biomimetics 2023, 8(4), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8040369 - 16 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1219
Abstract
Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of the nanocapsule sequential delivery of BMP-2 and SDF-1α through the peripheral circulatory system to promote the healing of osteoporotic fractures. Methods: Based on increased vascular permeability in the early hematoma environment [...] Read more.
Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the use of the nanocapsule sequential delivery of BMP-2 and SDF-1α through the peripheral circulatory system to promote the healing of osteoporotic fractures. Methods: Based on increased vascular permeability in the early hematoma environment around the fracture and the presence of a large number of matrix metalloproteinase MMPs in the inflammatory environment, we designed MMP-sensitive nanocapsules which were formed viain situ free-radical polymerization on the surface of grow factors with 2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and the bisacryloylated VPLGVRTK peptide. The antiphagic effect and biological activity of the growth factors for the nanomicrocapsule delivery system were tested by cell experiments. The 36 SD rats with an osteoporotic fracture model were randomly divided into six groups (A, B, C, D, E, and F). In this paper, the nanocapsules loaded with BMP-2 and SDF-1 are represented as n (BMP-2) and n (SDF-1α). In the six groups, the following different combinations of growth factors were injected into the bone defect site on days 1 and 3 after bone defect surgery: in group A, n (SDF-1α) combined with n (SDF-1α); in group B, n (BMP-2) combined with n (BMP-2); in group C, n (SDF-1α) + n (BMP-2) combined with n (SDF-1α) + n (BMP-2); in group D, n (SDF-1α) combined with n (BMP-2); in group E, n (BMP-2) combined with n (SDF-1α); in group F, nanocapsules without growth factor were used as the control group. Micro-CT was used to observe the effect of n(BMP-2) and n(SDF-1α) sequential delivery inearly healing in osteoporotic fractures. Finally, in this study, we evaluated the safety of the nanocapsules delivery system by detecting ectopic osteogenesis and inflammatory responses in animals. Results: Nanocapsules have low toxicity and protect the integrity and biological activity of growth factors. The results confirmed that nanocapsules could still be effectively targeted to the fracture site on days 1, 3, and 7 after intravenous administration. Growth factors encapsulated in nanocapsules have better bone repair results than natural growth factors. In particular, groups C and D had the best bone repair results than other groups.In vivo experiments confirmed that nanocapsules did not cause significant ectopic osteogenesis and inflammation. Conclusion: The results confirmed that the special vascular permeability and inflammatory factor microenvironment of the fracture site could be used to deliver two growth factors with a synergistic effect through venous circulation, which could better promote the healing process of osteoporotic fracture. Full article
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15 pages, 14474 KiB  
Article
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of a Premaxillary Device: A New Type of Subperiosteal Implant to Treat Severe Atrophy of the Maxilla
by Alessandro Cipollina, Mario Ceddia, Natalia Di Pietro, Francesco Inchingolo, Margherita Tumedei, Tea Romasco, Adriano Piattelli, Alessandro Specchiulli and Bartolomeo Trentadue
Biomimetics 2023, 8(4), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8040336 - 31 Jul 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1084
Abstract
Extreme atrophy of the maxilla still poses challenges for clinicians. Some of the techniques used to address this issue can be complex, risky, expensive, and time consuming, often requiring skilled surgeons. While many commonly used techniques have achieved very high success rates, complications [...] Read more.
Extreme atrophy of the maxilla still poses challenges for clinicians. Some of the techniques used to address this issue can be complex, risky, expensive, and time consuming, often requiring skilled surgeons. While many commonly used techniques have achieved very high success rates, complications may arise in certain cases. In this context, the premaxillary device (PD) technique offers a simpler approach to reconstruct severely atrophic maxillae, aiming to avoid more complicated and risky surgical procedures. Finite element analysis (FEA) enables the evaluation of different aspects of dental implant biomechanics. Our results demonstrated that using a PD allows for an optimal distribution of stresses on the basal bone, avoiding tension peaks that can lead to bone resorption or implant failure. ANSYS® was used to perform localized finite element analysis (FEA), enabling a more precise examination of the peri-crestal area and the PD through an accurate mesh element reconstruction, which facilitated the mathematical solution of FEA. The most favorable biomechanical behavior was observed for materials such as titanium alloys, which helped to reduce stress levels on bone, implants, screws, and abutments. Additionally, stress values remained within the limits of basal bone and titanium alloy strengths. In conclusion, from a biomechanical point of view, PDs appear to be viable alternatives for rehabilitating severe atrophic maxillae. Full article
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21 pages, 4885 KiB  
Article
Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma Addition on the Chemical Properties and Biological Activity of Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate Bone Cement
by Jingyu Liu, Yifan Wang, Yanqin Liang, Shengli Zhu, Hui Jiang, Shuilin Wu, Xiang Ge and Zhaoyang Li
Biomimetics 2023, 8(2), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8020262 - 15 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1318
Abstract
Currently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an attractive additive for bone repair materials. PRP could enhance the osteoconductive and osteoinductive of bone cement, as well as modulate the degradation rate of calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH). The focus of this study was to investigate the [...] Read more.
Currently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an attractive additive for bone repair materials. PRP could enhance the osteoconductive and osteoinductive of bone cement, as well as modulate the degradation rate of calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH). The focus of this study was to investigate the effect of different PRP ratios (P1: 20 vol%, P2: 40 vol%, and P3: 60 vol%) on the chemical properties and biological activity of bone cement. The injectability and compressive strength of the experimental group were significantly higher than those of the control. On the other hand, the addition of PRP decreased the crystal size of CSH and prolonged the degradation time. More importantly, the cell proliferation of L929 and MC3T3-E1 cells was promoted. Furthermore, qRT-PCR, alizarin red staining, and western blot analyses showed that the expressions of osteocalcin (OCN) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) genes and β-catenin protein were up-regulated, and mineralization of extracellular matrix was enhanced. Overall, this study provided insight into how to improve the biological activity of bone cement through PRP incorporation. Full article
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Review

Jump to: Research

14 pages, 1693 KiB  
Review
Recent Development and Application of “Nanozyme” Artificial Enzymes—A Review
by Sivakamavalli Jeyachandran, Ramachandran Srinivasan, Thiyagarajan Ramesh, Arumugam Parivallal, Jintae Lee and Ezhaveni Sathiyamoorthi
Biomimetics 2023, 8(5), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8050446 - 21 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2002
Abstract
Nanozymes represent a category of nano-biomaterial artificial enzymes distinguished by their remarkable catalytic potency, stability, cost-effectiveness, biocompatibility, and degradability. These attributes position them as premier biomaterials with extensive applicability across medical, industrial, technological, and biological domains. Following the discovery of ferromagnetic nanoparticles with [...] Read more.
Nanozymes represent a category of nano-biomaterial artificial enzymes distinguished by their remarkable catalytic potency, stability, cost-effectiveness, biocompatibility, and degradability. These attributes position them as premier biomaterials with extensive applicability across medical, industrial, technological, and biological domains. Following the discovery of ferromagnetic nanoparticles with peroxidase-mimicking capabilities, extensive research endeavors have been dedicated to advancing nanozyme utilization. Their capacity to emulate the functions of natural enzymes has captivated researchers, prompting in-depth investigations into their attributes and potential applications. This exploration has yielded insights and innovations in various areas, including detection mechanisms, biosensing techniques, and device development. Nanozymes exhibit diverse compositions, sizes, and forms, resembling molecular entities such as proteins and tissue-based glucose. Their rapid impact on the body necessitates a comprehensive understanding of their intricate interplay. As each day witnesses the emergence of novel methodologies and technologies, the integration of nanozymes continues to surge, promising enhanced comprehension in the times ahead. This review centers on the expansive deployment and advancement of nanozyme materials, encompassing biomedical, biotechnological, and environmental contexts. Full article
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18 pages, 2915 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in the Production of Pharmaceuticals Using Selective Laser Sintering
by Athinarayanan Balasankar, Kandasamy Anbazhakan, Velusamy Arul, Velankadu Natrayan Mutharaian, Ganesan Sriram, Kanakaraj Aruchamy, Tae Hwan Oh and Subramaniyan Ramasundaram
Biomimetics 2023, 8(4), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8040330 - 27 Jul 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1729
Abstract
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing process that has shown promise in the production of medical devices, including hip cups, knee trays, dental crowns, and hearing aids. SLS-based 3D-printed dosage forms have the potential to revolutionise the production of personalised drugs. [...] Read more.
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is an additive manufacturing process that has shown promise in the production of medical devices, including hip cups, knee trays, dental crowns, and hearing aids. SLS-based 3D-printed dosage forms have the potential to revolutionise the production of personalised drugs. The ability to manipulate the porosity of printed materials is a particularly exciting aspect of SLS. Porous tablet formulations produced by SLS can disintegrate orally within seconds, which is challenging to achieve with traditional methods. SLS also enables the creation of amorphous solid dispersions in a single step, rather than the multi-step process required with conventional methods. This review provides an overview of 3D printing, describes the operating mechanism and necessary materials for SLS, and highlights recent advances in SLS for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Furthermore, an in-depth comparison and contrast of various 3D printing technologies for their effectiveness in tissue engineering applications is also presented in this review. Full article
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22 pages, 55787 KiB  
Review
The Developments of Surface-Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles and Their Applications in Brain Diseases Therapy
by Rong Hu, Xiao Wang, Lu Han and Xiong Lu
Biomimetics 2023, 8(2), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8020259 - 15 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1643
Abstract
Selenium (Se) and its organic and inorganic compounds in dietary supplements have been found to possess excellent pharmacodynamics and biological responses. However, Se in bulk form generally exhibits low bioavailability and high toxicity. To address these concerns, nanoscale selenium (SeNPs) with different forms, [...] Read more.
Selenium (Se) and its organic and inorganic compounds in dietary supplements have been found to possess excellent pharmacodynamics and biological responses. However, Se in bulk form generally exhibits low bioavailability and high toxicity. To address these concerns, nanoscale selenium (SeNPs) with different forms, such as nanowires, nanorods, and nanotubes, have been synthesized, which have become increasingly popular in biomedical applications owing to their high bioavailability and bioactivity, and are widely used in oxidative stress-induced cancers, diabetes, and other diseases. However, pure SeNPs still encounter problems when applied in disease therapy because of their poor stability. The surface functionalization strategy has become increasingly popular as it sheds light to overcome these limitations in biomedical applications and further improve the biological activity of SeNPs. This review summarizes synthesis methods and surface functionalization strategies employed for the preparation of SeNPs and highlights their applications in treating brain diseases. Full article
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