PEG functionalization effect of silicate-containing hydroxyapatite particles on effective collagen fibrillation with...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a key biomaterial, but its surface properties influence biological interactions.
• Silicate incorporation (SiHA) and surface functionalization (PEG-silane) modify HA's hydration layer.
• Controlling collagen (Col) fibrillation is crucial for biomaterial applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of bioceramic surface hydration layer states on collagen fibrillation.
• To functionalize SiHA particles with PEG-silane and analyze hydration and collagen adlayer characteristics.
• To establish correlations between water molecular states and collagen fibrillation degree.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of plate-like SiHA particles.
• Functionalization of SiHA with PEG-silane.
• Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) for hydration and adsorption studies.
• Analysis of water molecular states via infrared spectroscopy.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for fibril density assessment.

Main Results:

• PEG-silane functionalization altered hydration layer water states, increasing free water content.
• QCM-D revealed changes in water mobility and state during collagen adsorption and fibrillation.
• Collagen fibrillation degree, assessed by tan δ and protein secondary structure, increased with PEG-silane functionalization.
• A significant correlation was found between free water content and collagen fibrillation.

Conclusions:

• The hydration layer's water molecular states on bioceramics play a critical role in controlling collagen fibrillation.
• PEG-silane functionalization enhances collagen fibrillation by modifying the surface hydration layer.
• Understanding and controlling interfacial water is key for designing biomaterials with tailored biological responses.