Apatite formation on silica gel in simulated body fluid: its dependence on structures of silica gels prepared in different media

Bioactive glass-based organic/inorganic hybrids: an analysis of the current trends in polymer design and selection

Bioactive glass-based organic/inorganic hybrids are a family of materials holding great promise in the biomedical field. Developed from bioactive glasses following recent advances in sol-gel and polymer chemistry, they can overcome many limitations of traditional composites typically used in bone repair and orthopedics. Thanks to their unique molecular structure, hybrids are often characterized by synergistic properties that go beyond a mere combination of their two components; it is possible to synthesize materials with a wide variety of mechanical and biological properties. The polymeric component, in particular, can be tailored to prepare tough, load-bearing materials, or rubber-like elastomers. It can also be a key factor in the determination of a wide range of interesting biological properties. In addition, polymers can also be used within hybrids as carriers for therapeutic ions (although this is normally the role of silica). This review offers a brief look into the history of hybrids, from the discovery of bioactive glasses to the latest developments, with a particular emphasis on polymer design and chemistry. First the benefits and limitations of hybrids will be discussed and compared with those of alternative approaches (for instance, nanocomposites). Then, key advances in the field will be presented focusing on the polymeric component: its chemistry, its physicochemical and biological advantages, its drawbacks, and selected applications. Comprehensive tables summarizing all the polymers used to date to fabricate sol-gel hybrids for biomedical applications are also provided, to offer a handbook of all the available candidates for hybrid synthesis. In addition to the current trends, open challenges and possible avenues of future development are proposed.

Apatite-forming ability of sandblasted and acid-etched titanium surfaces modified by ultraviolet irradiation: An in vitro study

Introduction:

Contamination of large grit sandblasting and acid-etching (SLA) with hydrocarbons make the surface hydrophobic and influence its bioactivity. Preservation in dH2O (modified SLA, modSLA) and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation were proven to be effective in decreasing hydrocarbon contamination and keeping the SLA surface hydrophilic.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to detect the in vitro bioactivity of SLA, modSLA and UV-SLA surfaces.

Design:

The SBF model was used to compare the bone-like apatite forming ability.

Setting:

The experiment was conducted at Southern Medical University.

Materials and methods:

The quantity of apatite was assessed by SEM and weighed on an electronic balance. The elemental composition and crystal phase were assessed by EDS and XRD analysis, respectively.

Results:

The sediments that completely covered the modSLA and UV-SLA surfaces after 4 weeks of soaking reached 3.23 ± 0.35 mg and 2.13 ± 0.95 mg, respectively. They were eight- and five-fold than that on the SLA surface (0.43 ± 0.15 mg) with statistical significance ( p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). EDS and XRD tests recognized the sediments on the modSLA and UV-SLA surfaces as apatite with similar elemental compositions, Ca/P ratios and crystal phases.

Discussion:

Hydrophilicity and abundant hydroxyl groups drive modSLA and UV-SLA surfaces to absorb more Ca2+ to accelerate the formation of apatite.

Conclusion:

SLA preservation in dH2O and UV irradiation were recognized as trustworthy methods to acquire greater bioactivity of the SLA surface.

Prediction of subcutaneous drug absorption - do we have reliable data to design a simulated interstitial fluid?

For many years subcutaneous (SC) administration has represented the main route for delivering biopharmaceuticals. However, little information exists about the milieu in the subcutaneous tissue, especially about the properties/composition of the fluid present in this tissue, the interstitial fluid (ISF), which is one of the key elements for the drug release and absorption. Better knowledge on SC ISF composition, properties and dynamics may provide better insight into in vivo drug performance. In addition, a simulated SC ISF, which allows better prediction of in vivo absorption of drugs after subcutaneous administration based on in vitro release experiments, would help to improve formulation design, and reduce the number of animal studies and clinical trials required to obtain marketing authorization. To date, a universal medium for predicting drug solubility/release in the interstitial space does not exist. This review provides an overview of the currently available information on composition and physicochemical properties of SC ISF and critically discusses different isolation techniques in the context of information that could be gained from the isolated fluid. Moreover, it surveys current in vitro release media aiming to mimic SC ISF composition and highlights information gaps that need to be filled for designing a meaningful artificial SC ISF.

How Surface Properties of Silica Nanoparticles Influence Structural, Microstructural and Biological Properties of Polymer Nanocomposites

The aim of this work was to study effect of the type of silica nanoparticles on the properties of nanocomposites for application in the guided bone regeneration (GBR). Two types of nanometric silica particles with different size, morphology and specific surface area (SSA) i.e., high specific surface silica (hss-SiO₂) and low specific surface silica (lss-SiO₂), were used as nano-fillers for a resorbable polymer matrix: poly(L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide), called PLDLA. It was shown that higher surface specific area and morphology (including pore size distribution) recorded for hss-SiO₂ influences chemical activity of the nanoparticle; in addition, hydroxyl groups appeared on the surface. The nanoparticle with 10 times lower specific surface area (lss-SiO₂) characterized lower chemical action. In addition, a lack of hydroxyl groups on the surface obstructed apatite nucleation (reduced zeta potential in comparison to hss-SiO₂), where an apatite layer appeared already after 48 h of incubation in the simulated body fluid (SBF), and no significant changes in crystallinity of PLDLA/lss-SiO₂ nanocomposite material in comparison to neat PLDLA foil were observed. The presence and type of inorganic particles in the PLDLA matrix influenced various physicochemical properties such as the wettability, and the roughness parameter note for PLDLA/lss-SiO₂ increased. The results of biological investigation show that the bioactive nanocomposites with hss-SiO₂ may stimulate osteoblast and fibroblast cells’proliferation and secretion of collagen type I. Additionally, both nanocomposites with the nanometric silica inducted differentiation of mesenchymal cells into osteoblasts at a proliferation stage in in vitro conditions. A higher concentration of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was observed on the material modified with hss-SiO₂ silica.

Mechanistic studies of biomineralisation on silver incorporated anatase TiO2

Here we report silver incorporated anatase TiO₂ developed on Ti metal by H₂O₂-AgNO₃ and heat treatment to have faster biomineralisation or apatite-forming ability in simulated body fluid (SBF). Apatite-forming ability has been investigated concerning heat treatment temperatures ranges, 400-800 °C and duration of soaking period in SBF. The apatite formation showed an increasing trend with increase in the heat treatment temperatures up to 600 °C and beyond that the Ti metal lost this ability. XRD as wells as Raman results of such chemical and heat-treated Ti metal at different temperatures further correlates the apatite nucleation directly in relation with that of anatase to rutile TiO₂ formation. Further, a time dependent apatite mineralisation study by XPS revealed simultaneous calcium and phosphate deposition at the early stage of soaking in SBF. Therefore, the apatite nucleation in the present chemically treated Ti metal depends on the crystalline phase of TiO₂ formed by H₂O₂ and heat treatment along with Ag⁺ ion release.

Elucidation of the time-dependent degradation process in insoluble hyaluronic acid formulations with a controlled degradation rate

Degradation rate of hyaluronic acid to prolong its stability in vivo would be beneficial. We investigated a potential solution for prolonging the stability of hyaluronic acid within the body. We focused on decreasing the swelling ratio to slow the degradation rate of hyaluronic acid by insolubilizing sodium hyaluronate without using potentially harmful substances such as crosslinkers or modifiers. Hyaluronic acid formulations were created with three different swelling ratios and time-dependent morphological changes in hyaluronic acid formulations and were scored based on each swelling ratio. In vivo degradation was modeled in simulated body fluid and the extent of decay of test membranes were monitored over time. Results showed that, by adjusting the swelling ratio, the degradation rate of hyaluronic acid formulation could be controlled. Our research could lead to improvements in many products, not only preventive materials for postoperative adhesions, but also pharmaceutical products such as osteoarthritis treatments and cosmetic medicines.

Effect of a Single Injection of Benidipine-Impregnated Biodegradable Microcarriers on Bone and Gingival Healing at the Tooth Extraction Socket

Objective: A dihydropyridine-type calcium channel blocker, benidipine (BD), is extensively used in hypertension therapy. In vitro study reported BD promoting bone metabolism. We evaluated the effect of sustained release of BD-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcarriers on the promotion of bone and gingival healing at an extraction socket in vivo. In addition, the effect of BD on osteoblasts, osteocytes, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells was evaluated in vitro. Approach: The maxillary first molar of rats was extracted. Next, PLGA microcarriers containing BD were directly injected into the gingivobuccal fold as a single dose. After injection, bone and soft-tissue healing was histologically evaluated. Effect of BD on proliferation, migration, and gene expression of gingival and bone cell was also examined in vitro. Results: After tooth extraction, BD significantly augmented bone volume and density, and also epithelial wound healing. During in vitro studies, BD promoted significant proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and epithelial cells. Real-time RT-PCR revealed that BD upregulated messenger RNA expression of Ahsg (alpha 2-HS glycoprotein) and Csf2 (colony-stimulating factor 2) in osteoblasts. Innovation: The prevention of bone and soft-tissue reduction associated with tooth extraction has been eagerly anticipated in the field of dentistry. This study first reported the effect of BD on extraction socket healing. Conclusion: A single dose of topically administered BD-loaded PLGA microcarriers promoted bone and soft-tissue healing at the extraction site of tooth.

Effects of Pre-Treatments on Bioactivity of High-Purity Titanium

Titanium and its alloys are frequently employed in medical and dental clinics due to their good tissue compatibility, including commercially available pure Ti, Ti6A4V, or Ti-15Zr-4Ta-4Nb. Yet, they may behave very differently when in contact with our plasma because of their own chemical composition. The present study was designed to compare the in vitro behavior of highly pure Ti (>99.99%; hpTi) with those of the above titanium specimens when they were subjected to heating in air (HT), H₂O₂ and heating (CHT), and heating in air after forming grooves on the surface (GT). Since one of the measures of material-tissue compatibility has been in vitro apatite formation in artificial plasma, like simulated body fluid (SBF) of the Kokubo recipe, the apatite deposition in SBF on their surface and in their grooves were examined in terms of the X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersion X-ray analysis. The results showed that hpTi was as active in in vitro apatite deposition as the other reference titanium samples mentioned above. Moreover, GT specimens of hpTi induced apatite deposition on the platform of the grooves as well as in the grooves. Therefore, hpTi was concluded to have better activity, and to be clinically applicable.

A review of the bioactivity of hydraulic calcium silicate cements

OBJECTIVES

In tissue regeneration research, the term "bioactivity" was initially used to describe the resistance to removal of a biomaterial from host tissues after intraosseous implantation. Hydraulic calcium silicate cements (HCSCs) are putatively accepted as bioactive materials, as exemplified by the increasing number of publications reporting that these cements produce an apatite-rich surface layer after they contact simulated body fluids.

METHODS

In this review, the same definitions employed for establishing in vitro and in vivo bioactivity in glass-ceramics, and the proposed mechanisms involved in these phenomena are used as blueprints for investigating whether HCSCs are bioactive.

RESULTS

The literature abounds with evidence that HCSCs exhibit in vitro bioactivity; however, there is a general lack of stringent methodologies for characterizing the calcium phosphate phases precipitated on HCSCs. Although in vivo bioactivity has been demonstrated for some HCSCs, a fibrous connective tissue layer is frequently identified along the bone-cement interface that is reminiscent of the responses observed in bioinert materials, without accompanying clarifications to account for such observations.

CONCLUSIONS

As bone-bonding is not predictably achieved, there is insufficient scientific evidence to substantiate that HCSCs are indeed bioactive. Objective appraisal criteria should be developed for more accurately defining the bioactivity profiles of HCSCs designed for clinical use.

Biodegradability of some Collagen Sponges Reinforced with Different Bioceramics

Composite materials based on collagen matrix could have the different properties in the case of reinforcement with different bioceramics. Not just the chemical composition of bioceramics used as reinforcement component have an influence on the composite properties, but also the microstructural aspects of bioceramics such as morphology, grain size and shape, homogeneity and distribution. We present in this paper the effect of the bioceramics type (TCP, hydroxyapatite) and ratio on the composite material structure and the biodegradation properties of some collagen based composites obtaining using the freeze-drying process. Also, we measure the porosity before made the biodegradation test using collagenase as medium and immersion in simulated body fluid in order to see the bioactivity properties.

DFT modeling of 45S5 and 77S soda-lime phospho-silicate glass surfaces: clues on different bioactivity mechanism

The reactivity of bioglasses, which is related to the dissolution of cations and orthosilicate groups in the physiological fluid, strongly depends on the key structural features present at the glass surfaces. On the basis of the composition and the synthetic routes employed to make the glass, surfaces with very different characteristics and thus presenting different mechanisms of dissolution can be observed. In this paper, the surface structures of two very different bioglass compositions, namely 45S5 (46.1 SiO2, 24.4 Na2O, 26.9 CaO, and 2.6 P2O5 mol %) and 77S (80.0 SiO2, 16.0 CaO, and 4.0 P2O5 mol %), have been investigated by means of periodic DFT calculations based on a PBE functional and localized Gaussian basis set as encoded in the CRYSTAL code. Our calculations show that the two glass surfaces differ by the relative amount of key structural sites such as NBOs, exposed ions, orthosilicate units, and small rings. We have demonstrated how the number of these sites affects the surface stability and reactivity (bioactivity).

Elasticity, thermal stability and bioactivity of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes reinforced chitosan-based microfibres

A wet-spinning approach was used to extrude ribbon-like micrometer-thick fibres comprising chitosan with 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9% (w/w) polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS). ANOVA reveals significant variations in the maximum stress (σ), stiffness (E), elastic energy storage (u') and fracture toughness (u) of the microfibres with respect to POSS concentration: σ, u' and u peak at 7% (w/w) but POSS concentration has no effect on E. Scanning electron microscopy of the ruptured microfibres reveals fracture and detachment of POSS precipitates from the chitosan matrix. Bioactivity test using simulated body fluids reveals a net gain in mass (by day 4) and grossly distorted morphology caused by apatite deposition on the microfibre surface. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals that chitin is partially deacetylated into chitosan and it further shows the presence of POSS in the microfibres. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the microfibres are thermally stable up to 240°C in a nitrogen atmosphere.

Surface signatures of bioactivity: MD simulations of 45S and 65S silicate glasses

The surface of a bioactive (45S) and a bioinactive (65S) glass composition has been modeled using shell-model classical molecular dynamics simulations. Direct comparison of the two structures allowed us to identify the potential role of specific surface features in the processes leading to integration of a bioglass implant with the host tissues, focusing in particular on the initial dissolution of the glass network. The simulations highlight the critical role of network fragmentation and sodium enrichment of the surface in determining the rapid hydrolysis and release of silica fragments in solution, characteristic of highly bioactive compositions. On the other hand, no correlation has been found between the surface density of small (two- and three-membered) rings and bioactivity, thus suggesting that additional factors need to be taken into account to fully understand the role of these sites in the mechanism leading to calcium phosphate deposition on the glass surface.

Growth of a bonelike apatite on chitosan microparticles after a calcium silicate treatment

Bioactive chitosan microparticles can be prepared successfully by treating them with a calcium silicate solution and then subsequently soaking them in simulated body fluid (SBF). Such a combination enables the development of bioactive microparticles that can be used for several applications in the medical field, including injectable biomaterial systems and tissue engineering carrier systems. Chitosan microparticles, 0.6microm in average size, were soaked either for 12h in fresh calcium silicate solution (condition I) or for 1h in calcium silicate solution that had been aged for 24h before use (condition II). Afterwards, they were dried in air at 60 degrees C for 24h. The samples were then soaked in SBF for 1, 3 and 7 days. After the condition I calcium silicate treatment and the subsequent soaking in SBF, the microparticles formed a dense apatite layer after only 7 days of immersion, which is believed to be due to the formation of silanol (Si-OH) groups effective for apatite formation. For condition II, the microparticles successfully formed an apatite layer on their surfaces in SBF within only 1 day of immersion.

Bioceramic dip-coating on Ti-6Al-4V and 316L SS implant materials

The focus of the present study is based on more economical and rapid bioceramic coating on the most common implant substrates such as Ti-6Al-4V and 316L SS used often in orthopedics. For ceramic dip coating of implant substrates, Hydroxyapatite (HA) powder, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, P2O5, Na2CO3 and KH2PO4 are used to provide the gel. Ceramic films on sandblasted substrates have been deposited by using a newly manufactured dip-coating apparatus. Sample characterization is evaluated by SEM and XRD analysis. A smooth and homogeneous coating films have been obtained and average of 20 MPa bonding strength has been achieved for both Ti-6Al-4V and 316L SS alloys after sintering at 750 degrees C under flowing argon. The level of importance of the process parameters on coating was determined by using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The current process appears to be cheap, easy, and flexible to shape variations and high production rates for orthopedic applications.

The effect of surface silanol groups on the deposition of apatite onto silica surfaces: a computer simulation study

Computer modelling techniques were employed to investigate the effect of surface silanol groups on the strength of adhesion of apatite thin films to silica surfaces. To this end, we have studied a series of silica surfaces with different silanol densities and calculated their interaction with apatite thin films. Our findings indicate that apatite does not attach strongly to surface hydroxy groups, but that apatite should deposit at dehydrated silica surfaces, especially when the surface silicon and oxygen species rearrange to form O-Si-O links. Any dangling silicon and oxygen bonds at the silica surfaces are saturated by coordination to oxygen and calcium atoms in the apatite layer, but the extra reactivity afforded by these under-coordinated surface species does not necessarily lead to more favourable substrate/film interactions. The lowest energy silica/apatite interfaces are those where an undistorted apatite layer can be deposited on a regular, stable substrate surface. Our simulations support the suggestion, that in vivo surface hydroxy groups are first condensed to form O-Si-O bridges before deposition and growth of apatite.

Coating of bone-like apatite for development of bioactive materials for bone reconstruction

Materials with bioactivity, i.e. bone-bonding ability, form a bone-like apatite layer on their surfaces in the body and bond to living bone through this bone-like apatite layer. Bone-like apatite is carbonated hydroxyapatite with small crystallites and low crystallinity. The coating of the bone-like apatite layer on the substrates is expected to be a useful technique to induce bioactivity on the substrates. The bone-like apatite layer can be formed on the surface of substrates in a solution mimicking body fluid when some functional groups are introduced to the substrates. This process is called a biomimetic process. Coating of bone-like apatite layers through this biomimetic process has received much attention in the fabrication of novel composites with bioactivity. An overview of the coating of bone-like apatite is described.

Microstructure and Bio-Mineralization Behavior of the Sol-Gel Derived Bioactive Materials

The biomaterials in system CaO-P2O5-SiO2 were synthesized via sol-gel method. The biomaterials can be applied to bone reparation and bone tissue engineering scaffolds The nano-pore structure, degradability, bioactivity and bio-mineralization characteristic of the biomaterials were investigated in details using XRD, SEM/EDX, FTIR, BET and DSC/TG techniques. It was indicated that the sol-gel derived biomaterials have a higher bioactivity than that of the melt derived bioactive glasses or glass-ceramics. It just takes 4-8 hours for HCA to form on the surface of the sol-gel samples in SBF solution at 37°C. The spherical HCA crystal clusters formed on the surface of the sol-gel derived samples immersed in SBF for 8 hours have a low crystallinity. Owing to their interconnected nano-sized pores, the sol-gel samples possess much higher surface areas and the hydrous porous SiO2 gel layer containing a great amount of ºSi-OH groups can be rapidly formed on the biomterials’ surface through a quick ion exchange between H3O+ in the solution and Ca2+ in the surface of the materials. ºSi-OH groups can play a very important role in inducing formation of HCA. They make the material surfaces electronegative, which resulted in a double electrode layer formed between the samples surface and SBF solution. The double electrode layer is in favor of formation of HCA on the surface of the materials.

Biomimetic Apatite Formation on Different Polymeric Microspheres Modified with Calcium Silicate Solutions

Bioactive polymeric microspheres can be produced by pre-coating them with a calcium silicate solution and the subsequent soaking in a simulated body fluid (SBF). Such combination should allow for the development of bioactive microspheres for several applications in the medical field including tissue engineering. In this work, three types of polymeric microspheres with different sizes were used: (i) ethylene-vinyl alcohol co-polymer (20-30 'm), (ii) polyamide 12 (10-30 'm) and (iii) polyamide 12 (300 'm). These microspheres were soaked in a calcium silicate solution at 36.5°C for different periods of time under several conditions. Afterwards, they were dried in air at 100°C for 24 hrs. Then, the samples were soaked in SBF for 1, 3 and 7 days. Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, thin-film X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy showed that after the calcium silicate treatment and the subsequent soaking in SBF, the microspheres successfully formed a bonelike apatite layer on their surfaces in SBF within 7 days due to the formation of silanol (Si-OH) groups that are quite effective for apatite formation.

Effects of lithium fluoride and maleic acid on the bioactivity of calcium aluminate cement: Formation of hydroxyapatite in simulated body fluid

To improve the bioactivity of calcium aluminate cement (CAC), which has the potential of restoring defective bone and the joints between artificial prostheses and natural bone, lithium fluoride and maleic acid were added to CAC. Then the bioactivity of the CAC, together with the lithium fluoride and maleic acid, was estimated by examining the hydroxyapatite (HAp) formation on its surface in simulated body fluid (SBF). When 0.5 g of lithium fluoride and 8.75 g of maleic acid were added to 100 g of CAC, LiAl(2)(OH)(7).2H(2)O was formed on the surface of CAC after 1 day of soaking, and HAp was formed after 2 days. The depth of the LiAl(2)(OH)(7). 2H(2)O and HAp-mixed layers after 60 days of immersion was approximately 20 microm. However, after CAC, which contains only 8.75 g of maleic acid per 100 g of CaO.Al(2)O(3), had been soaking for just 30 days, 3CaO.Al(2)O(3).6H(2)O and HAp were detected. These results indicate that lithium fluoride accelerates HAp formation on the surface of CAC in SBF while maleic acid has little influence on HAp formation. The promotion of HAp formation on the surface of CAC in SBF can be explained in terms of the help of an intermediate layer, LiAl(2)(OH)(7).2H(2)O, which contains hydroxyl groups that act as the nuclei of HAp formation and a tremendous dissolution of calcium ions from CAC into the SBF solution within a short induction time.

A new quantitative method to evaluate the in vitro bioactivity of melt and sol-gel-derived silicate glasses

Two melt-derived glasses (45S5 and 60S) and four sol-gel glasses (58S, 68S, 77S, and 91S) have been synthesized. The activation energy for the silicon release was determined, and a very close correlation was observed between this value and published results of the bioactive behavior of the glasses. This relationship can be explained in terms of the influence of chemical composition, textural properties, and structural density on the silanol group formation and silicon dissolution. These measurements provide a quantitative method to evaluate the in vitro bioactivity of SiO(2)-based glasses. Preliminary studies suggest an activation energy gap (Ea) of 0.35-0.5 eV as a boundary between bioactive and nonbioactive glasses.

Novel bioactive materials with different mechanical properties

Some ceramics, such as Bioglass, sintered hydroxyapatite, and glass-ceramic A-W, spontaneously bond to living bone. They are called bioactive materials and are already clinically used as important bone substitutes. However, compared with human cortical bone, they have lower fracture toughness and higher elastic moduli. Therefore, it is desirable to develop bioactive materials with improved mechanical properties. All the bioactive materials mentioned above form a bone-like apatite layer on their surfaces in the living body, and bond to bone through this apatite layer. The formation of bone-like apatite on artificial material is induced by functional groups, such as Si-OH, Ti-OH, Zr-OH, Nb-OH, Ta-OH, -COOH, and PO(4)H(2). These groups have specific structures revealing negatively charge, and induce apatite formation via formations of an amorphous calcium compound, e.g., calcium silicate, calcium titanate, and amorphous calcium phosphate. These fundamental findings provide methods for preparing new bioactive materials with different mechanical properties. Tough bioactive materials can be prepared by the chemical treatment of metals and ceramics that have high fracture toughness, e.g., by the NaOH and heat treatments of titanium metal, titanium alloys, and tantalum metal, and by H(3)PO(4) treatment of tetragonal zirconia. Soft bioactive materials can be synthesized by the sol-gel process, in which the bioactive silica or titania is polymerized with a flexible polymer, such as polydimethylsiloxane or polytetramethyloxide, at the molecular level to form an inorganic-organic nano-hybrid. The biomimetic process has been used to deposit nano-sized bone-like apatite on fine polymer fibers, which were textured into a three-dimensional knit framework. This strategy is expected to ultimately lead to bioactive composites that have a bone-like structure and, hence, bone-like mechanical properties.

Bonelike apatite formation on ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer modified with silane coupling agent and calcium silicate solutions

An ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) was treated with a silane coupling agent and calcium silicate solutions, and then soaked in a simulated body fluid (SBF) with ion concentrations approximately equal to those of human blood plasma. A smooth and uniform bonelike apatite layer was successfully formed on both the EVOH plate and the EVOH-knitted fibers in SBF within 2 days. Part of the structure of the resulting apatite-EVOH fiber composite was similar to that of natural bone. If this kind of composite can be fabricated into a three-dimensional structure similar to natural bone, the resultant composite is expected to exhibit both mechanical properties analogous to those of natural bone and bone-bonding ability. Hence, it has great potential as a bone substitute.

Structural dependence of apatite formation on titania gels in a simulated body fluid

The apatite-forming ability of titania gels with different structures has been investigated in a simulated body fluid with ion concentrations nearly equal to those of human blood plasma. Titania gels with an amorphous structure or with an anatase or rutile structure were prepared by the sol-gel process with a subsequent heat treatment at various temperatures. The titania gels with an amorphous structure did not induce apatite formation on their surfaces in the simulated body fluid, whereas gels with an anatase or rutile structure induced apatite formation on their surfaces. The deposition of apatite was more pronounced on the anatase gels than on the rutile gels. This indicates that a specific structure of titania is effective in inducing apatite formation in a body environment. Such a specific structure was assumed in this study to be the crystalline planar arrangement in the anatase structure, which facilitates epitaxy of the apatite crystal.

Preparation and in vitro evaluation of porous silica gels

Porous silica gels with high surface areas were prepared from tetraethylothosilicate and polyacrylic acid (PAA) of high molecular weight in acidic media by a sol-gel method. PAA content and ageing temperatures were varied in order to obtain different microstructures. Samples were sintered at temperatures up to 400 degrees C, and subjected to in vitro evaluation by soaking them in acellular inorganic solutions at 37 degrees C and pH 7.3. Surface precipitation of carbonate-apatite on some of the gels was observed by FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and EPMA. Silica dissolution and re-precipitation phenomena were also observed. The relationship between both phenomena during the in vitro test is discussed mainly in terms of structural and microstructural features of the gel.

Effects of Si speciation on the in vitro bioactivity of glasses

The surface reactivity of glasses belonging to the (mol%) 31SiO2-11P2O5-(58-x)CaO-xMgO series, with x ranging from 0 to 32, was studied in Kokubo's simulated body fluid (SBF). Scanning electron microscopy, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to characterise the glass surface and the SBF compositional changes. All glasses develop surface layers rich in silica and calcium phosphate. An increasing surface activity with increasing MgO/CaO ratio was observed. In a previous investigation using magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance it was found that there is an increasing abundance of Q0 species in the glass structure with increasing MgO content. The present work shows that, when immersed in SBF, Q0-rich glasses are easily leached to form a silica gel layer. It is concluded that MgO in the glass indirectly improves the early stages of mineralisation by favouring Q0 speciation. This mechanism plays an important role in glass bioactivity.

Apatite nucleation on silica surface: a zeta potential approach

Zeta potential measurements on pure silica, prepared by the sol-gel method from tetraethoxysilane under acidic conditions, are reported in different suspensions. Water suspensions and suspensions containing calcium or phosphate ions with and without NaCl were tested. zeta potential measurements were carried out as a function of the pH and ion concentration. Also, calcium and phosphate adsorption on silica was determined experimentally. The results of zeta potential and adsorption measurements suggest that both calcium and phosphate ions can be adsorbed on the silica surface; however, calcium adsorption is stronger than phosphate adsorption. When calcium and sodium ions are present in the suspension, calcium adsorption decreases. It seems that certain sites on the silica surface are specific for calcium adsorption.

Influence of preparation conditions on the microstructure and bioactivity of alpha-CaSiO(3) ceramics: formation of hydroxyapatite in simulated body fluid

Two different reagents, NaOH and NH(4)OH, were used to precipitate CaSiO(3) precursor powders from ethanol solutions of Ca(NO(3))(2). 4H(2)O and Si(OC(2)H(5))(4). The resultant powders of different Ca/Si ratio and residual Na(2)O content exhibited significant differences in the microtexture of the resulting sintered alpha-CaSiO(3) ceramics. The microtexture of the ceramics from the NaOH system (CS-Na) contained smaller grain sizes and a thicker glassy phase at the grain boundaries than those produced using NH(4)OH (CS-NH). The CS-Na ceramics were soaked in a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 36.5 degrees C for 2 h and 1, 5, 6, 10, 21, and 30 days while the CS-NH ceramics were soaked for 1, 5, 7, 15, 20, and 25 days using the same conditions. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) formed on the surfaces of both samples but at different formation rates due to differences in the microstructure. The CS-Na ceramics showed faster HAp formation because their smaller alpha-CaSiO(3) grains dissolved more readily, allowing the calcium concentration in the SBF quickly to approach the appropriate condition for nucleation of HAp. In addition, the thicker glassy phase at the grain boundaries facilitated a faster formation of silanol on the surface of the amorphous SiO(2) interlayer, a reaction that is considered to be a prerequisite for HAp formation. The formation of the HAp layer on the CS-Na ceramics therefore was very fast (12 microm/day), and their surfaces were covered completely within 5 days. A layer thickness of about 110 microm was achieved in 30 days, in contrast with the CS-NH ceramics, which took about 25 days to be fully covered with a 60-microm layer of HAp.

Apatite growth on calcium adsorbed surface of wet flocculated silica particles immersed in a modified simulated body fluid

An alternative method for the calcium phosphate apatite formation onto the surface of flocculated pure silica particles is reported, in an attempt to understand the possible mechanism for the apatite formation. A stable silica sol was flocculated by adding calcium ions in aqueous solution. The wet flocks were resuspended in a basic aqueous solution containing a calcium salt, trying to allow the absorption of calcium ions onto the silica surface through a hydrogen ion exchange. The as-prepared materials were immersed in a modified simulated body fluid at different temperatures (37 and 90 degrees C) and silica concentrations. It was found that these factors have a strong influence on the apatite formation. The apatite formation was confirmed by (31)P MAS-NMR, FT-Raman, XRD, and TEM.

Surface reactions of a plasma-sprayed CaO-P2O5-SiO2-based glass with albumin, fibroblasts and granulocytes studied by XPS, fluorescence and chemiluminescence

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to define the chemical composition of the outermost surface layer and the surface modification of a plasma-coated phospho-silicate glass (identified as BVA) when immersed in K-phosphate buffer or in phosphate buffered human albumin solution. Its behavior was compared with that of a soda-lime-based glass (identified as BVH) treated in the same way. The surface % composition of plasma-sprayed glass was consistent with bulk composition. After incubation with buffer, a Ca-P-rich layer developed only on the surface of BVA glass. Human serum albumin was bound reversibly to both glasses maintaining its native state. However, the protein completely covered the BVA glass surface within 24 h, with the formation of a mixed albumin-Ca-P layer, while 4 days incubation was necessary for complete coverage of BVH glass surface. Murine fibroblasts seeded on plasma-coated BVA glass showed a proliferation pattern similar to that of control cells grown on Petri dish, while cells seeded on BVH had more restricted growth. A limited response was induced in polymorphonuclear granulocytes by both bulk glasses powder. In conclusion, the glass identified as BVA has the suitable characteristics of its surface layers to be considered biologically active from both a chemical and a cellular point of view.

Biocompatibility evaluation of sol-gel coatings for subcutaneously implantable glucose sensors

The objective of the current investigation is to determine the soft-tissue biocompatibility of sol-gel matrices which can be used to optimize the properties of implantable glucose sensors. The biocompatibility of sol-gel matrices with heparin, dextran sulphate, Nafion, polyethylene glycol, and polystyrene sulphonate was examined in vitro in simulated body fluid and with cell culture experiments using human dermal fibroblasts. Finally, an in vivo study was performed. Therefore, sol-gel coated polystyrene discs were inserted subcutaneously in the back of rabbits. After 4 and 12 weeks, the implants with surrounding tissue were retrieved and processed histologically. In simulated body fluid, the formation of a granular calcium phosphate precipitate was observed. Cell proliferation on polyethylene glycol, Nafion, and heparin coated substrates was comparable to control samples and significantly higher than on dextran sulphate and polystyrene sulphate coated substrates. Light microscopic evaluation of the retrieved in vivo samples showed a fair tissue reaction to all materials. Histomorphometric analysis demonstrated that there were no differences in tissue response to the different sol-gel coatings. In conclusion, sol-gel matrices exhibit a fair biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo. These results will form the basis for further research into the real merits of sol-gel coatings in optimizing the properties of subcutaneously implantable glucose sensors.

Bioactive ceramics: the effect of surface reactivity on bone formation and bone cell function

Surface reactivity is one of the common characteristics of bone bioactive ceramics. It contributes to their bone bonding ability and their enhancing effect on bone tissue formation. During implantation, reactions occur at the material-tissue interface that lead to time-dependent changes in the surface characteristics of the implant material and the tissues at the interface. This review describes some of the current concepts regarding the surface reactivity of bone bioactive materials and its effect on attachment, proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of bone cells.

Induction of bioactivity of a non-bioactive glass-ceramic by a chemical treatment

Glass-ceramic A-W(Al), which was prepared by heat treatment of a MgO-CaO-SiO2-P2O5-Al2O3 glass to precipitate crystalline apatite and wollastonite, shows a higher mechanical strength than glass-ceramic A-W, which was prepared by heat treatment of a MgO-CaO-SiO2-P2O5 glass to precipitate the same types of crystalline phases. The former, however, does not show bone-bonding ability, i.e. bioactivity, whereas the latter shows it. In the present study, in order to induce bioactivity of glass-ceramic A-W(Al), it was treated with HCl or NaOH solutions with different concentrations, and its bioactivity was evaluated by examining the apatite formation on its surface in a simulated body fluid (SBF) with ion concentrations nearly equal to those of human blood plasma. When the glass-ceramic A-W(Al) was pretreated with HCl aqueous solutions with concentrations over 0.1 M, it formed the bone-like apatite on its surface in SBF. This was attributed to the formation of a hydrated silica on its surface by the HCl treatment.