Exploring processing-structure-property relationships of chemically precipitated strontium silicate particles for...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Osteoporosis poses significant challenges for bone regeneration in dental and orthopedic surgery.
• Bacterial infection is a critical complication in bone defect treatments.
• Strontium-containing biomaterials are being explored to enhance bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel strontium silicate biomaterials with tailored composition and structure.
• To evaluate the biological and antibacterial properties of these new materials.
• To address the dual challenges of bone regeneration and infection in osteoporotic bone.

Main Methods:

• Chemical precipitation was used to synthesize strontium silicate particles.
• Varying ammonia concentrations and Sr/Si precursor ratios were employed.
• Cytotoxicity, hMSC differentiation, macrophage function, and antibacterial activity were assessed.

Main Results:

• Higher ammonia concentrations yielded smaller SrSiO3 and Sr2SiO4 particles with higher Sr/Si ratios.
• The developed strontium silicates demonstrated enhanced antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus.
• Particles promoted hMSC viability and osteogenic activity, and modulated macrophage polarization.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized strontium silicates exhibit potent antibacterial activity and promote osteogenic properties.
• These materials show increased radiopacity for better surgical visibility.
• The developed strontium silicate is a promising candidate for bone regeneration, particularly in osteoporotic patients.