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Updated: Apr 16, 2026
Rapid Mix Preparation of Bioinspired Nanoscale Hydroxyapatite for Biomedical Applications
Published on: February 23, 2017
In vitro antimicrobial activity and biocompatibility of propolis containing nanohydroxyapatite
L Grenho1, J Barros, C Ferreira
1INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal. I3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Portugal. Faculdade de Engenharia, DEMM, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
New nanohydroxyapatite (nanoHA) surfaces incorporating Brazilian propolis extracts show significant antibacterial properties. These bioactive materials effectively inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm formation, offering a promising solution for preventing biomaterial-associated infections.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Biomaterial-associated infections pose a significant clinical challenge, necessitating innovative preventive strategies.
- Current treatments often struggle with efficacy and resistance, highlighting the need for novel antimicrobial biomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of nanohydroxyapatite (nanoHA)-based surfaces functionalized with Brazilian propolis extracts (green and red) for preventing bacterial growth and biofilm formation.
- To evaluate the non-cytotoxic nature of these novel nanoHA-propolis composite materials.
Main Methods:
- Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (planktonic and sessile) was assessed using optical density, colony-forming units (CFUs), and MTT reduction assays.
- The absorption capacity of the nanoHA matrix for propolis extracts was confirmed.
- Fibroblast cell cultures were used to determine the non-cytotoxic effects of the materials.
Main Results:
- The nanoHA matrix successfully absorbed both green and red propolis extracts.
- The developed nanoHA-propolis surfaces demonstrated significant reduction in bacterial growth and biofilm formation.
- Cell culture studies confirmed the materials' non-cytotoxicity, showing robust fibroblast growth and intact cell membranes.
Conclusions:
- NanoHA-based surfaces incorporating Brazilian propolis extracts exhibit potent antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties.
- These novel bioactive materials are non-cytotoxic and show promise for applications in orthopaedic and dental devices.
- Further research into these bee-derived natural product-infused biomaterials could lead to improved medical implants.
