ZnO-doped β-TCP ceramic-based scaffold promotes osteogenic and antibacterial activity

Abstract

β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) scaffold, a synthetic bone graft material, has been explored as a potential solution in the healing of bone deformities due to its acceptable degradation rate and ability to support bone growth. However, these scaffolds have limitations such as poor mechanical properties, to stimulate bone growth, and an increased risk of infection after implantation. To overcome these issues, a new type of biomedical scaffold has been developed that incorporated ZnO particles into β-TCP using wet chemical techniques. The scaffolds were created using sintering to produce porous β-TCP scaffolds with good connectivity. The addition of ZnO as a dopant significantly improved the biophysical properties of the scaffolds, with higher concentrations of ZnO leading to better cell adhesion and proliferation. The scaffolds placed in SBF demonstrated their exceptional ability to promote bone growth and regeneration by developing a bone-like apatite layer on their surfaces. The mechanical and physical properties of the scaffolds were effectively assessed using XRD and SEM analyses. To validate the efficacy of the specimen in preventing microbial growth and promoting bone growth, an MTT test, and gene expression investigation were conducted. ZnO-doped β-TCP scaffolds are envisaged to show enormous potential for use in future bone healing applications.

On the Ion Implantation Synthesis of Ag-Embedded Over Sr-Substituted Hydroxyapatite on a Nano-Topography Patterned Ti for Application in Acetabular Fracture Sites

“…While conventional ceramic coatings are unsuitable for load-bearing applications or for application in extensive bone defects because of their weak mechanical properties, HA nanoparticles formed by ion implantation can overcome these drawbacks. 21 , 22 …”