Gradient bimetallic ion-based hydrogels for tissue microstructure reconstruction of tendon-to-bone insertion.

Abstract

Although gradients play an essential role in guiding the function of tissues, achieving synchronous regeneration of gradient tissue injuries remains a challenge. Here, a gradient bimetallic (Cu and Zn) ion-based hydrogel was first constructed via the one-step coordinative crosslinking of sulfhydryl groups with copper and zinc ions for the microstructure reconstruction of the tendon-to-bone insertion. In this bimetallic hydrogel system, zinc and copper ions could not only act as crosslinkers but also provide strong antibacterial effects and induce regenerative capacity in vitro. The capability of hydrogels in simultaneously promoting tenogenesis and osteogenesis was further verified in a rat rotator cuff tear model. It was found that the Cu/Zn gradient layer could induce considerable collagen and fibrocartilage arrangement and ingrowth at the tendon-to-bone interface. Overall, the gradient bimetallic ion-based hydrogel ensures accessibility and provides opportunities to regenerate inhomogeneous tissue with physiological complexity or interface tissue.

• Authors: Renhao Yang, Gen Li, Chengyu Zhuang, Pei Yu, Tingjun Ye, Yin Zhang, Peiyang Shang, Jingjing Huang, Ming Cai, Lei Wang, Wenguo Cui, Lianfu Deng
• Journal: Science advances (Sci Adv) Vol. 7 Issue 26 (Jun 2021) ISSN: 2375-2548 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 34162547 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2021 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License 4.0 (CC BY-NC).