Tissue engineered multifunctional chitosan-modified polypropylene hernia mesh loaded with bioactive phyto-extracts

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Hernia repair often involves polypropylene (PP) meshes, but foreign body reactions and infections lead to complications and recurrence.
• Improved biomaterials are needed to enhance surgical outcomes and reduce patient discomfort.
• Surface modification of existing meshes offers a strategy to impart new functionalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel, surface-modified PP hernia meshes with enhanced biocompatibility and therapeutic properties.
• To incorporate bacterial cellulose (BC), chitosan (CS), and phytochemical extracts for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
• To evaluate the physical, chemical, biological, and in vivo performance of the functionalized meshes.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of PP meshes functionalized with BC, CS, and phytochemical extracts.
• Characterization using SEM, mechanical testing, FTIR, and XRD.
• Assessment of antimicrobial activity (E. coli, S. aureus), in vitro biocompatibility (NIH3T3 fibroblasts), wound healing potential, and tissue engineering capabilities.
• In vivo implantation studies in rats for 21 days.

Main Results:

• The modified meshes exhibited improved tensile strength and physical characteristics.
• Significant anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing properties were observed.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated good biocompatibility and tissue integration potential.
• The CS-BC bioactive PP meshes effectively reduced infection and showed promise in healing.

Conclusions:

• Surface-modified PP meshes incorporating BC, CS, and phytochemicals represent a promising biomaterial for hernia repair.
• These bioactive meshes possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing capabilities, potentially reducing post-surgical complications.
• The developed functionalized meshes can significantly lessen mesh rejection and recurrence rates, improving clinical outcomes.