MXene-Functionalized Ferroelectric Nanocomposite Membranes with Modulating Surface Potential Enhance Bone...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bone defect repair is a clinical challenge requiring effective biomaterials.
• Regulating the bioelectric microenvironment is crucial for optimal bone regeneration.
• Existing biomaterials struggle to precisely control electric potential and surface morphology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop electroactive biomaterials mimicking the extracellular microenvironment for enhanced bone regeneration.
• To create MXene/polyvinylidene fluoride (MXene/PVDF) ferroelectric nanocomposite membranes using electrospinning.
• To precisely modulate surface morphology and electric potential for optimal bioelectric cues.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of MXene/PVDF ferroelectric nanocomposite membranes via electrospinning.
• Physicochemical characterization to analyze fiber distribution, MXene content, and surface potential.
• In vitro cell studies to assess biocompatibility, cell adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation.
• In vivo evaluation in a rat calvarial bone defect model to quantify bone regeneration.

Main Results:

• MXene/PVDF membranes exhibited uniform fiber distribution and tunable surface potential based on MXene content.
• The membranes demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, promoting cell adhesion, stretching, and growth.
• Intrinsic electric potential accelerated osteogenic cell recruitment and osteoblast differentiation.
• 1 wt% MXene/PVDF membranes significantly promoted bone tissue formation in vivo.

Conclusions:

• MXene/PVDF ferroelectric nanocomposite membranes provide a biomimetic microenvironment with sustainable electric potential and optimal topography.
• This strategy offers an innovative approach for enhancing bone regeneration.
• The developed membranes show promise for clinical applications in treating bone defects.