Unveiling the Synergistic Influence of TiO₂ and Chitosan-Based Hydrogel in Precision Surface Co-Modification for...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Bacterial infections are a major cause of orthopedic implant failure.
• Titania nanotubes (TNTs) offer a promising platform for localized antibiotic delivery.
• Controlling drug release from TNTs is crucial for therapeutic efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the controlled release of vancomycin (Van) from chitosan-modified TNTs for orthopedic applications.
• To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy and osteogenic potential of vancomycin-loaded TNTs.
• To understand the role of TNT morphology and chitosan in drug delivery and biological response.

Main Methods:

• Electrochemical anodization to fabricate TNTs.
• Vancomycin loading and in vitro release studies analyzed with the Korsmeyer-Peppas model.
• Antibacterial assays against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Protein adsorption, cell proliferation, and gene expression analysis (ALP, OCN) of osteogenic markers.

Main Results:

• Non-Fickian diffusion (n=0.41) characterized vancomycin release kinetics.
• Vancomycin-loaded TNTs demonstrated significant antibacterial activity and reduced bacterial growth.
• Chitosan effectively controlled vancomycin release, enhancing cell viability and proliferation.
• Modified surfaces showed reduced bacterial adhesion and increased protein adsorption.
• Chitosan-loaded TNTs significantly upregulated osteogenic markers ALP and OCN, promoting differentiation.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-modified TNTs provide a viable strategy for controlled vancomycin delivery, mitigating implant-associated infections.
• The developed system enhances osteogenic differentiation, potentially improving bone integration.
• Surface morphology and chitosan are key factors in the performance of these nanostructured drug delivery systems.