Multifunctional rGO/Y₂O₃@hydroxyapatite bioceramics: structural, optical, and biomedical properties

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Chemistry

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is a key component in bone tissue engineering.
• Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) can impart novel properties to biomaterials.
• There is a need for multifunctional materials for combined bone regeneration and cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize HAp/rGO/Y2O3 composites for dual applications.
• To investigate the structural, optical, and functional enhancements of HAp upon incorporation of rGO and Y2O3.
• To evaluate the potential of these composites in bone regeneration and cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Composites were prepared using ethanol-assisted wet blending, followed by drying and heat treatment.
• Structural and optical properties were analyzed using XRD, FT-IR, SEM, and UV/Vis spectroscopy.
• Antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity (MTT assay), and biofilm reduction were evaluated.

Main Results:

• XRD confirmed phase purity, and FT-IR validated functional group interactions.
• SEM showed dense, homogeneous morphologies with reduced particle sizes (~380 nm).
• Optical bandgap narrowed from 5.42 eV (HAp) to 4.73 eV (composite), enhancing light absorption.
• Significant biofilm reduction (>90%) against Gram-positive bacteria was observed.
• Cytotoxicity studies showed high CC50 values (>100 µg mL-1) for most composites, indicating safety.
• Composites demonstrated potential for synergistic anticancer activity and osteoconductivity.

Conclusions:

• HAp/rGO/Y2O3 composites exhibit enhanced physicochemical and optical properties.
• These nanocomposites show promise as dual-functional materials for bone healing and localized cancer treatment.
• The developed materials are suitable for integrated bone regeneration and targeted cancer therapy platforms.