ROS-triggered smart hydrogel adhesives for modulating the inflammatory microenvironment and promoting tendon-bone...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Suture surgery for rotator cuff repair struggles to regenerate functional fibrocartilage, leading to high retear rates.
• The tendon-bone interface requires a specialized microenvironment for effective healing.
• Existing methods lack the ability to modulate inflammation and support mechanical demands during repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a ROS-triggered smart hydrogel adhesive (DPQP@ME) for enhanced functional repair of the tendon-bone interface.
• To investigate the hydrogel's ability to modulate the inflammatory microenvironment, promote cell differentiation, and provide mechanical support.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of DPQP@ME in rotator cuff repair.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of DPQP@ME hydrogel via self-assembly of metal-phenolic nanoparticles (ME) from EGCG and Mg2+, followed by crosslinking with DTT, PEGDA, and QCS-PBA.
• Incorporation of ROS-responsive borate ester and thioether bonds for controlled release of ME.
• In vitro evaluation of ROS scavenging, macrophage polarization, osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation, and in vivo assessment of inflammatory response and functional reconstruction.

Main Results:

• DPQP@ME demonstrated favorable ROS-responsive release of ME (73.15% vs 33.15%).
• In vitro studies showed reduced intracellular ROS, anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization, and promotion of osteogenic and cartilage formation.
• Animal studies confirmed attenuated inflammatory responses and improved functional reconstruction of the tendon-bone interface.

Conclusions:

• The novel ROS-triggered smart hydrogel adhesive (DPQP@ME) effectively promotes functional healing of the tendon-bone interface.
• DPQP@ME offers a promising therapeutic strategy for rotator cuff repair by addressing key biological and mechanical challenges.
• This approach holds potential for improving clinical outcomes in tendon healing.