pH-Responsive polymers

It is of great importance to develop multifunctional bioactive scaffolds, which combine angiogenesis capacity, osteostimulation, and antibacterial properties for regenerating lost bone tissues. In order to achieve this aim, we prepared copper (Cu)-containing mesoporous bioactive glass (Cu-MBG) scaffolds with interconnective large pores (several hundred micrometer) and well-ordered mesopore channels (around 5 nm). Both Cu-MBG scaffolds and their ionic extracts could stimulate hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1a and vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) expression in human bone marrow stromal cells(hBMSCs). In addition, both Cu-MBG scaffolds and their ionic extracts significantly promoted the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by improving their bone-related gene expression (alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteopontin(OPN) and osteocalcin (OCN)). Furthermore, Cu-MBG scaffolds could maintain a sustained release of ibuprofen and significantly inhibited the viability of bacteria. This study indicates that the incorporation of Cu2þ ions into MBG scaffolds significantly enhances hypoxia-like tissue reaction leading to the coupling of angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Cu2þ ions play an important role to offer the multifunctional properties of MBG scaffold system. This study has demonstrated that it is possible to develop multifunctional scaffolds by combining enhanced angiogenesis potential, osteostimulation, and antibacterial properties for the treatment of large bone defects.

Copper-containing mesoporous bioactive glass scaffolds with multifunctional properties of angiogenesis capacity, osteostimulation and antibacterial activity

Superabsorbent hydrogels based on polysaccharides for application in agriculture as soil conditioner and nutrient carrier: A review

This review gives an overview of recent advances in the potential applications of superhydrophobic materials. Such properties are characterized by extremely high water contact angles and various adhesion properties. The conception of superhydrophobic materials has been possible by studying and mimicking natural surfaces. Now, various applications have emerged such as anti-icing, anti-corrosion and anti-bacterial coatings, microfluidic devices, textiles, oil–water separation, water desalination/purification, optical devices, sensors, batteries and catalysts. At least two parameters were found to be very important for many applications: the presence of air on superhydrophobic materials with self-cleaning properties (Cassie–Baxter state) and the robustness of the superhydrophobic properties (stability of the Cassie–Baxter state). This review will allow researchers to envisage new ideas and industrialists to advance in the commercialization of these materials.

Recent advances in the potential applications of bioinspired superhydrophobic materials

A review of bioactive plant polysaccharides: Biological activities, functionalization, and biomedical applications

Crosslinked ionic polysaccharides for stimuli-sensitive drug delivery.

Purpose
To implement a bioinspired methodology using superhydrophobic surfaces suitable for producing smart hydrogel beads in which the bioactive substance is introduced in the particles during their formation.

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Synthesis of temperature-responsive dextran-MA/PNIPAAm particles for controlled drug delivery using superhydrophobic surfaces.

Synergistic performance of cyclodextrin–agar hydrogels for ciprofloxacin delivery and antimicrobial effect

Hydrophobically Modified Keratin Vesicles for GSH-Responsive Intracellular Drug Release.

Significance: The incidence of chronic wounds is increasing due to our aging population and the augment of people afflicted with diabetes. With the extended knowledge on the biological mechanisms underlying these diseases, there is a novel influx of medical technologies into the conventional wound care market. Recent Advances: Several nanotechnologies have been developed demonstrating unique characteristics that address specific problems related to wound repair mechanisms. In this review, we focus on the most recently developed nanotechnology-based therapeutic agents and evaluate the efficacy of each treatment in in vivo diabetic models of chronic wound healing. Critical Issues: Despite the development of potential biomaterials and nanotechnology-based applications for wound healing, this scientific knowledge is not translated into an increase of commercially available wound healing products containing nanomaterials. Future Directions: Further studies are critical to provide insights into how scientific evidences from nanotechnology-based therapies can be applied in the clinical setting.

/pdf/nanotechnology-approaches-in-chronic-wound-healing-4hac84sa1q.pdf

Barbara Blanco-Fernandez

Papers

Crosslinked ionic polysaccharides for stimuli-sensitive drug delivery.

Synthesis of temperature-responsive dextran-MA/PNIPAAm particles for controlled drug delivery using superhydrophobic surfaces.

Synergistic performance of cyclodextrin–agar hydrogels for ciprofloxacin delivery and antimicrobial effect

Hydrophobically Modified Keratin Vesicles for GSH-Responsive Intracellular Drug Release.

Nanotechnology Approaches in Chronic Wound Healing