This paper expounds professional characteristics of biomedical engineering in our school, and analyses some problems lying in it, emphatically discusses advantages and the problems combining biomedical engineering wit...This paper expounds professional characteristics of biomedical engineering in our school, and analyses some problems lying in it, emphatically discusses advantages and the problems combining biomedical engineering with the medical courses in order to offer targeted solutions. It summarizes the results and problems so as to provide reference value to a new major.展开更多
Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that manifests largely as gastrointestinal symptoms.Among these gastrointestinal symptoms,motility disorders are highly prevalent,presenting as chronic...Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that manifests largely as gastrointestinal symptoms.Among these gastrointestinal symptoms,motility disorders are highly prevalent,presenting as chronic constipation,stomach pain,indigestion,diarrhea,and other conditions that severely impact the quality of life of GWI veterans.However,despite a high prevalence of gastrointestinal impairments among these veterans,most research attention has focused on neurological disturbances.This perspective provides a comprehensive overview of current in vivo research advancements elucidating the underlying mechanisms contributing to gastrointestinal disorders in GWI.Generally,these in vivo and in vitro models propose that neuroinflammation alters gut motility and drives the gastrointestinal symptoms reported in GWI.Additionally,this perspective highlights the potential and challenges of in vitro bioengineering models,which could be a crucial contributor to understanding and treating the pathology of gastrointestinal related-GWI.展开更多
The field of bone tissue engineering has experienced an increase in prevalence due to the inherent challenge of the natural regeneration of significant bone deformities.This investigation focused on the preparation of...The field of bone tissue engineering has experienced an increase in prevalence due to the inherent challenge of the natural regeneration of significant bone deformities.This investigation focused on the preparation of Three-Dimensional(3D)-printed Polycaprolactone(PCL)scaffolds with varying proportions of Nanohydroxyapatite(NHA)and Nanoclay(NC),and their physiochemical and biological properties were assessed.The mechanical properties of PCL are satisfactory;however,its hydrophobic nature and long-term degradation hinder its use in scaffold fabrication.NHA and NC have been employed to improve the hydrophilic characteristics,mechanical strength,adhesive properties,biocompatibility,biodegradability,and osteoconductive behavior of PCL.The morphology results demonstrated 3D-printed structures with interconnected rectangular macropores and proper nanoparticle distribution.The sample containing 70 wt%NC showed the highest porosity(65.98±2.54%),leading to an increased degradation rate.The compressive strength ranged from 10.65±1.90 to 84.93±9.93 MPa,which is directly proportional to the compressive strength of cancellous bone(2–12 MPa).The wettability,water uptake,and biodegradability of PCL scaffolds considerably improved as the amount of NC increased.The results of the cellular assays exhibited increased proliferation,viability,and adhesion of MG-63 cells due to the addition of NHA and NC to the scaffolds.Finally,according to the in vitro results,it can be concluded that 3D-printed samples with higher amounts of NC can be regarded as a suitable scaffold for expediting the regeneration process of bone defects.展开更多
This article reviews recent advancements,innovative strategies,and the key challenges in Drug Delivery Systems(DDS)for bone regeneration,focusing on tissue engineering.It highlights the limitations of current surgical...This article reviews recent advancements,innovative strategies,and the key challenges in Drug Delivery Systems(DDS)for bone regeneration,focusing on tissue engineering.It highlights the limitations of current surgical interventions forbone regeneration,particularly autogenic bone grafts,and discusses the exploration of alternative materials and methods,including allogeneic and xenogeneic bone grafts,synthetic materials,and biodegradable polymers.The objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how contemporary DDS can be optimized and integrated with tissue engineering approaches for more effective bone regeneration therapies.The review explained the mechanisms through which DDS enhance bone repair processes,identifies critical factors influencing their efficacy and safety,and offers an overview of current trends and future perspectives in the field.It emphasizes the need for advanced strategies in bone regeneration that focus on precise control of DDS to address bone conditions such as osteoporosis,trauma,and genetic predispositions leading to fractures.展开更多
Plant cell wall(CW)-like soft materials,referred to as artificial CWs,are composites of assembled polymers containing micro-/nanoparticles or fibers/fibrils that are designed to mimic the composition,structure,and mec...Plant cell wall(CW)-like soft materials,referred to as artificial CWs,are composites of assembled polymers containing micro-/nanoparticles or fibers/fibrils that are designed to mimic the composition,structure,and mechanics of plant CWs.CW-like materials have recently emerged to test hypotheses pertaining to the intricate structure–property relationships of native plant CWs or to fabricate functional materials.Here,research on plant CWs and CW-like materials is reviewed by distilling key studies on biomimetic composites primarily composed of plant polysaccharides,including cellulose,pectin,and hemicellulose,as well as organic polymers like lignin.Micro-and nanofabrication of plant CW-like composites,characterization techniques,and in silico studies are reviewed,with a brief overview of current and potential applications.Micro-/nanofabrication approaches include bacterial growth and impregnation,layer-by-layer assembly,film casting,3-dimensional templating microcapsules,and particle coating.Various characterization techniques are necessary for the comprehensive mechanical,chemical,morphological,and structural analyses of plant CWs and CW-like materials.CW-like materials demonstrate versatility in real-life applications,including biomass conversion,pulp and paper,food science,construction,catalysis,and reaction engineering.This review seeks to facilitate the rational design and thorough characterization of plant CW-mimetic materials,with the goal of advancing the development of innovative soft materials and elucidating the complex structure–property relationships inherent in native CWs.展开更多
Emerging therapies rely on the efficient and specific delivery of targeted agents into the cytosol,such as DNA,siRNA and proteins.Nanoparticles showed great potentials in safe delivery and transportation of the target...Emerging therapies rely on the efficient and specific delivery of targeted agents into the cytosol,such as DNA,siRNA and proteins.Nanoparticles showed great potentials in safe delivery and transportation of the targeted cargoes;however,the entrapment in endosomes and degradation by specific enzymes in the lysosome hindered the bioavailability,cytosolic delivery and subsequent therapeutic efficacy.In this case,the development of methods for efficient and specific delivery of targeted therapeutic agents focuses on overcoming the major challenge of endo/lysosomal escape,which relies on the development of safe and efficient nanodelivery systems.A deeper mechanistic understanding in the endo/lysosomal escape will guide the development of more efficient nano-delivery systems.In this review,we summarize various mechanisms by which nanoparticles escape from the endo/lysosome,and showcase the recent progress in dissecting the endo/lysosomal approaches based on nano-delivery systems.Emphasis will lie on the properties of nanoparticles that govern the endo/lysosomal escape pathway as well as the latest promising applications in vaccine delivery and genetic engineering field.展开更多
The field of photocatalysis has witnessed a significant advancement in the development of bioinspired and biomimetic photocatalysts for various biomedical applications,including drug delivery,tissue engineering,cancer...The field of photocatalysis has witnessed a significant advancement in the development of bioinspired and biomimetic photocatalysts for various biomedical applications,including drug delivery,tissue engineering,cancer therapy,and bioimaging.Nature has evolved efficient light-harvesting systems and energy conversion mechanisms,which serve as a benchmark for researchers.However,reproducing such complexity and harnessing it for biomedical applications is a daunting task.It requires a comprehensive understanding of the underlying biological processes and the ability to replicate them synthetically.By utilizing light energy,these photocatalysts can trigger specific chemical reactions,leading to targeted drug release,enhanced tissue regeneration,and precise imaging of biological structures.In this context,addressing the stability,long-term performance,scalability,and costeffectiveness of these materials is crucial for their widespread implementation in biomedical applications.While challenges such as complexity and stability persist,their advantages such as targeted drug delivery and personalized medicine make them a fascinating area of research.The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of existing research,highlighting the advancements,current challenges,advantages,limitations,and future prospects of bioinspired and biomimetic photocatalysts in biomedicine.展开更多
Although previous studies have demonstrated that transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation protects the ischemic brain,clear criteria for the stimulation time window and intensity are lacking.Electrical impedance to...Although previous studies have demonstrated that transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation protects the ischemic brain,clear criteria for the stimulation time window and intensity are lacking.Electrical impedance tomography enables real-time monitoring of changes in cerebral blood perfusion within the ischemic brain,but investigating the feasibility of using this method to assess post-stroke rehabilitation in vivo remains critical.In this study,ischemic stroke was induced in rats through middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery.Transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation was used to treat the rat model of ischemia,and electrical impedance tomography was used to measure impedance during both the acute stage of ischemia and the rehabilitation stage following the stimulation.Electrical impedance tomography results indicated that cerebral impedance increased after the onset of ischemia and decreased following transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation.Furthermore,the stimulation promoted motor function recovery,reduced cerebral infarction volume in the rat model of ischemic stroke,and induced the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the ischemic brain.Our results also revealed a significant correlation between the impedance of the ischemic brain post-intervention and improvements in behavioral scores and infarct volume.This study shows that daily administration of transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation for 20 minutes to the ischemic hemisphere 24 hours after cerebral ischemia enhanced motor recovery in a rat model of ischemia.Additionally,our findings indicate that electrical impedance tomography can serve as a valuable tool for quantitatively evaluating rehabilitation after ischemic stroke in vivo.These findings suggest the feasibility of using impedance data collected via electrical impedance tomography to clinically assess the effects of rehabilitatory interventions for patients with ischemic stroke.展开更多
Human spinal cord organoids(hSCOs)offer a promising platform to study neurotrauma by addressing many limitations of traditional research models.These organoids provide access to human-specific physiological and geneti...Human spinal cord organoids(hSCOs)offer a promising platform to study neurotrauma by addressing many limitations of traditional research models.These organoids provide access to human-specific physiological and genetic mechanisms and can be derived from an individual's somatic cells(e.g.,blood or skin).This enables patient-specific paradigms for precision neurotrauma research,pa rticula rly relevant to the over 300,000 people in the United States living with chronic effects of spinal cord injury(SCI).展开更多
Radiative cooling systems(RCSs)possess the distinctive capability to dissipate heat energy via solar and thermal radiation,making them suitable for thermal regulation and energy conservation applications,essential for...Radiative cooling systems(RCSs)possess the distinctive capability to dissipate heat energy via solar and thermal radiation,making them suitable for thermal regulation and energy conservation applications,essential for mitigating the energy crisis.A comprehensive review connecting the advancements in engineered radiative cooling systems(ERCSs),encompassing material and structural design as well as thermal and energy-related applications,is currently absent.Herein,this review begins with a concise summary of the essential concepts of ERCSs,followed by an introduction to engineered materials and structures,containing nature-inspired designs,chromatic materials,meta-structural configurations,and multilayered constructions.It subsequently encapsulates the primary applications,including thermal-regulating textiles and energy-saving devices.Next,it highlights the challenges of ERCSs,including maximized thermoregulatory effects,environmental adaptability,scalability and sustainability,and interdisciplinary integration.It seeks to offer direction for forthcoming fundamental research and industrial advancement of radiative cooling systems in real-world applications.展开更多
MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices tak...MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices take the advantage of the exceptional electrical conductivity,mechanical flexibility,and biocompatibility of two-dimensional MXenes to enable noninvasive,tear-based monitoring of key physiological markers such as intraocular pressure and glucose levels.Recent developments focus on the integration of transparent MXene films into the conventional lens materials,allowing multifunctional performance including photothermal therapy,antimicrobial and anti-inflammation protection,and dehydration resistance.These innovations offer promising strategies for ocular disease management and eye protection.In addition to their multifunctionality,improvements in MXene synthesis and device engineering have enhanced the stability,transparency,and wearability of these lenses.Despite these advances,challenges remain in long-term biostability,scalable production,and integration with wireless communication systems.This review summarizes the current progress,key challenges,and future directions of MXene-based smart contact lenses,highlighting their transformative potential in next-generation digital healthcare and ophthalmic care.展开更多
In recent years,exosomes have garnered extensive attention as therapeutic agents and early diagnostic markers in neurodegenerative disease research.Exosomes are small and can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier,...In recent years,exosomes have garnered extensive attention as therapeutic agents and early diagnostic markers in neurodegenerative disease research.Exosomes are small and can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier,allowing them to target deep brain lesions.Recent studies have demonstrated that exosomes derived from different cell types may exert therapeutic effects by regulating the expression of various inflammatory cytokines,mRNAs,and disease-related proteins,thereby halting the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and exhibiting beneficial effects.However,exosomes are composed of lipid bilayer membranes and lack the ability to recognize specific target cells.This limitation can lead to side effects and toxicity when they interact with non-specific cells.Growing evidence suggests that surface-modified exosomes have enhanced targeting capabilities and can be used as targeted drug-delivery vehicles that show promising results in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.In this review,we provide an up-to-date overview of existing research aimed at devising approaches to modify exosomes and elucidating their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases.Our findings indicate that exosomes can efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier to facilitate drug delivery and can also serve as early diagnostic markers for neurodegenerative diseases.We introduce the strategies being used to enhance exosome targeting,including genetic engineering,chemical modifications(both covalent,such as click chemistry and metabolic engineering,and non-covalent,such as polyvalent electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions,ligand-receptor binding,aptamer-based modifications,and the incorporation of CP05-anchored peptides),and nanomaterial modifications.Research into these strategies has confirmed that exosomes have significant therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases.However,several challenges remain in the clinical application of exosomes.Improvements are needed in preparation,characterization,and optimization methods,as well as in reducing the adverse reactions associated with their use.Additionally,the range of applications and the safety of exosomes require further research and evaluation.展开更多
Overt and harmful diabetes mellitus(DM)has detrimental effects on individuals and,by extension,the community.Among the microvascular DM complications is diabetic retinopathy(DR).DR may cause irreversible vision deteri...Overt and harmful diabetes mellitus(DM)has detrimental effects on individuals and,by extension,the community.Among the microvascular DM complications is diabetic retinopathy(DR).DR may cause irreversible vision deterioration in cases of poor blood glucose regulation.Changes in vascular permeability are key trigger points for diabetic macular edema(DME),a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the macula.The development of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)pathway inhibitors has provided a pathogenesis-based treatment approach for DME.Optical coherence tomography(OCT)provides highresolution imaging of the anatomy,including the aging of DME and its structural damage,in distinct morphologic subtypes of macular edema,thereby supporting the assessment of macular edema treatment.The availability of repeated OCT monitoring provides clinical reassurance through the treatment.OCT angiography(OCTA)provides retinal blood flow maps with high spatial resolution.The ability promotes an understanding of disease pathogenesis and facilitates the implementation of new therapeutic methods.This review compares the potential of OCT and OCTA in the diagnosis and treatment of DME,as well as their respective therapeutic applications.展开更多
Gelatin/Alginate hydrogels were engineered for bioplotting in tissue engineering.One major drawback of hydrogel scaffolds is the lack of adequate mechanical properties.In this study,using a bioplotter,we constructed t...Gelatin/Alginate hydrogels were engineered for bioplotting in tissue engineering.One major drawback of hydrogel scaffolds is the lack of adequate mechanical properties.In this study,using a bioplotter,we constructed the scaffolds with different pore architectures by deposition of gelatin/alginate hydrogels layerby-layer.The scaffolds with different crosslinking degree were obtained by post-crosslinking methods.Their physicochemical properties,as well as cell viability,were assessed.Different crosslinking methods had little influence on scaffold architecture,porosity,pore size and distribution.By contrast,the water absorption ability,degradation rate and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were dramatically affected by treatment with various concentrations of crosslinking agent(glutaraldehyde).The crosslinking process using glutaraldehyde markedly improved the stability and mechanical strength of the hydrogel scaf-folds.Besides the post-processing methods,the pore architecture can also evidently affect the mechanical properties of the scaffolds.The crosslinked gelatin/alginate scaffolds showed a good potential to encap-sulate cells or drugs.展开更多
In this paper, we review the current state- of-the-art techniques used for understanding the inner workings of the brain at a systems level. The neural activity that governs our everyday lives involves an intricate co...In this paper, we review the current state- of-the-art techniques used for understanding the inner workings of the brain at a systems level. The neural activity that governs our everyday lives involves an intricate coordination of many processes that can be attributed to a variety of brain regions. On the surface, many of these functions can appear to be controlled by specific anatomical structures; however, in reality, numerous dynamic networks within the brain contribute to its function through an interconnected web of neuronal and synaptic pathways. The brain, in its healthy or pathological state, can therefore be best understood by taking a systems-level approach. While numerous neuroengineering technologies exist, we focus here on three major thrusts in the field of systems neuroengineering： neuroimaging, neural interfacing, and neuromodulation. Neuroimaging enables us to delineate the structural and functional organization of the brain, which is key in understanding how the neural system functions in both normal and disease states. Based on such knowledge, devices can be used either to communicate with the neural system, as in neural interface systems, or to modulate brain activity, as in neuromodulation systems. The consideration of these three fields is key to the development and application of neuro-devices. Feedback-based neuro-devices require the ability to sense neural activity （via a neuroimaging modality） through a neural interface （invasive or noninvasive） and ultimately to select a set of stimulation parameters in order to alter neural function via a neuromodulation modality. Systems neuroengineering refers to the use of engineering tools and technologies to image, decode, and modulate the brain in order to comprehend its functions and to repair its dysfunction. Interactions between these fields will help to shape the future of systems neuroengineering--to develop neurotechniques for enhancing the understanding of whole- brain function and dysfunction, and the management of neurological and mental disorders.展开更多
Microwave induced thermoacoustic imaging(MTAI)has emerged as a potential biomedical imaging modality with over 20-year growth.MTAI typically employs pulsed microwave as the pumping source,and detects the microwave-ind...Microwave induced thermoacoustic imaging(MTAI)has emerged as a potential biomedical imaging modality with over 20-year growth.MTAI typically employs pulsed microwave as the pumping source,and detects the microwave-induced ultrasound wave via acoustic transducers.Therefore,it features high acoustic resolution,rich elect romagnetic contrast,and large imaging depth.Benefiting from these unique advantages,MTAI has been extensively applied to various fields including pathology,biology,material and medicine.Till now,MTAI has been deployed for a wide range of biomedical applications,including cancer diagnosis,joint evaluation,brain in-vestigation and endoscopy.This paper provides a comprehensive review on(1)essential physics(endogenous/exogenous contrast mechanisms,penetration depth and resolution),(2)hardware configurations and software implementations(excit ation source,antenna,ultrasound detector and image recovery algorithm),(3)animal studies and clinical applications,and(4)future directions.展开更多
Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are tubular structures that are used to bridge the gap of a severed nerve, thereby acting as a guide and protective micro-environment for the regenerating axons and as a barrier against ...Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are tubular structures that are used to bridge the gap of a severed nerve, thereby acting as a guide and protective micro-environment for the regenerating axons and as a barrier against the in-growth of scar-forming tissue. In the last few decades, the concept of NGCs has evolved from a research tool to investigate nerve regeneration into a translational product that is now being used clinically as an alternative for autologous nerve graft repair, due to their availability and ease of fabrication.展开更多
Bone tissue engineering is an exciting approach to directly repair bone defects or engineer bone tissue for transplantation.Biomaterials play a pivotal role in providing a template and extracellular environment to sup...Bone tissue engineering is an exciting approach to directly repair bone defects or engineer bone tissue for transplantation.Biomaterials play a pivotal role in providing a template and extracellular environment to support regenerative cells and promote tissue regeneration. A variety of signaling cues have been identified to regulate cellular activity, tissue development, and the healing process. Numerous studies and trials have shown the promise of tissue engineering, but successful translations of bone tissue engineering research into clinical applications have been limited, due in part to a lack of optimal delivery systems for these signals. Biomedical engineers are therefore highly motivated to develop biomimetic drug delivery systems, which benefit from mimicking signaling molecule release or presentation by the native extracellular matrix during development or the natural healing process. Engineered biomimetic drug delivery systems aim to provide control over the location, timing, and release kinetics of the signal molecules according to the drug's physiochemical properties and specific biological mechanisms. This article reviews biomimetic strategies in signaling delivery for bone tissue engineering, with a focus on delivery systems rather than specific molecules. Both fundamental considerations and specific design strategies are discussed with examples of recent research progress, demonstrating the significance and potential of biomimetic delivery systems for bone tissue engineering.展开更多
Stents made of nearly equiatomic NiTi alloy are used to treat malignant obstruction caused by cancer,but prevention of re-obstruction after surgery is still a challenge because the bare stents possess poor anticancer ...Stents made of nearly equiatomic NiTi alloy are used to treat malignant obstruction caused by cancer,but prevention of re-obstruction after surgery is still a challenge because the bare stents possess poor anticancer and antibacterial properties to inhibit cancer/bacteria invasion.The present work aims at endowing the NiTi alloy with anticancer and antibacterial abilities by surface modification.Ni–Ti–O nanoporous layers with different thicknesses were prepared on NiTi by anodization,and biological experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects on gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus,human lung epithelial cancer cells(A549),as well as human endothelial cells(EA.hy926).The nanoporous layer with a thickness of 10.1 lm inhibits growth of cancer cells and kill bacteria but shows little adverse effects on normal cells.Such selectivity is related to the larger amount of Ni ions leached from the sample in the acidic microenvironment of cancer cells in comparison with normal cells.The Ni–Ti–O nanoporous layers are promising as coatings on NiTi stents to prevent re-obstruction after surgery.展开更多
Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenging problem in need of better treatment strategies.Despite best efforts at surgical reconstruction and postoperative rehabilitation,patients are often left with persistent,de...Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenging problem in need of better treatment strategies.Despite best efforts at surgical reconstruction and postoperative rehabilitation,patients are often left with persistent,debilitating motor and sensory deficits.There are currently no therapeutic strategies proven to enhance the regenerative process in humans.A clinical need exists for the development of technologies to promote nerve regeneration and improve functional outcomes.Recent advances in the fields of tissue engineering and nanotechnology have enabled biomaterial scaffolds to modulate the host response to tissue repair through tailored mechanical,chemical,and conductive cues.New bioengineered approaches have enabled targeted,sustained delivery of protein therapeutics with the capacity to unlock the clinical potential of a myriad of neurotrophic growth factors that have demonstrated promise in enhancing regenerative outcomes.As such,further exploration of combinatory strategies leveraging these technological advances may offer a pathway towards clinically translatable solutions to advance the care of patients with peripheral nerve injuries.This review first presents the various emerging bioengineering strategies that can be applied for the management of nerve gap injuries.We cover the rationale and limitations for their use as an alternative to autografts,focusing on the approaches to increase the number of regenerating axons crossing the repair site,and facilitating their growth towards the distal stump.We also discuss the emerging growth factor-based therapeutic strategies designed to improve functional outcomes in a multimodal fashion,by accelerating axonal growth,improving the distal regenerative environment,and preventing end-organs atrophy.展开更多
文摘This paper expounds professional characteristics of biomedical engineering in our school, and analyses some problems lying in it, emphatically discusses advantages and the problems combining biomedical engineering with the medical courses in order to offer targeted solutions. It summarizes the results and problems so as to provide reference value to a new major.
基金supported by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program Award through the Gulf War Illness Research Program (SAR, W81XWH-21±1-0477)funding from the Aviles-Johnson Doctoral Diversity Fellowship Awardthe National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship Awards (CAC)
文摘Gulf War Illness(GWI)is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that manifests largely as gastrointestinal symptoms.Among these gastrointestinal symptoms,motility disorders are highly prevalent,presenting as chronic constipation,stomach pain,indigestion,diarrhea,and other conditions that severely impact the quality of life of GWI veterans.However,despite a high prevalence of gastrointestinal impairments among these veterans,most research attention has focused on neurological disturbances.This perspective provides a comprehensive overview of current in vivo research advancements elucidating the underlying mechanisms contributing to gastrointestinal disorders in GWI.Generally,these in vivo and in vitro models propose that neuroinflammation alters gut motility and drives the gastrointestinal symptoms reported in GWI.Additionally,this perspective highlights the potential and challenges of in vitro bioengineering models,which could be a crucial contributor to understanding and treating the pathology of gastrointestinal related-GWI.
文摘The field of bone tissue engineering has experienced an increase in prevalence due to the inherent challenge of the natural regeneration of significant bone deformities.This investigation focused on the preparation of Three-Dimensional(3D)-printed Polycaprolactone(PCL)scaffolds with varying proportions of Nanohydroxyapatite(NHA)and Nanoclay(NC),and their physiochemical and biological properties were assessed.The mechanical properties of PCL are satisfactory;however,its hydrophobic nature and long-term degradation hinder its use in scaffold fabrication.NHA and NC have been employed to improve the hydrophilic characteristics,mechanical strength,adhesive properties,biocompatibility,biodegradability,and osteoconductive behavior of PCL.The morphology results demonstrated 3D-printed structures with interconnected rectangular macropores and proper nanoparticle distribution.The sample containing 70 wt%NC showed the highest porosity(65.98±2.54%),leading to an increased degradation rate.The compressive strength ranged from 10.65±1.90 to 84.93±9.93 MPa,which is directly proportional to the compressive strength of cancellous bone(2–12 MPa).The wettability,water uptake,and biodegradability of PCL scaffolds considerably improved as the amount of NC increased.The results of the cellular assays exhibited increased proliferation,viability,and adhesion of MG-63 cells due to the addition of NHA and NC to the scaffolds.Finally,according to the in vitro results,it can be concluded that 3D-printed samples with higher amounts of NC can be regarded as a suitable scaffold for expediting the regeneration process of bone defects.
文摘This article reviews recent advancements,innovative strategies,and the key challenges in Drug Delivery Systems(DDS)for bone regeneration,focusing on tissue engineering.It highlights the limitations of current surgical interventions forbone regeneration,particularly autogenic bone grafts,and discusses the exploration of alternative materials and methods,including allogeneic and xenogeneic bone grafts,synthetic materials,and biodegradable polymers.The objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how contemporary DDS can be optimized and integrated with tissue engineering approaches for more effective bone regeneration therapies.The review explained the mechanisms through which DDS enhance bone repair processes,identifies critical factors influencing their efficacy and safety,and offers an overview of current trends and future perspectives in the field.It emphasizes the need for advanced strategies in bone regeneration that focus on precise control of DDS to address bone conditions such as osteoporosis,trauma,and genetic predispositions leading to fractures.
基金supported as part of The Center for LignoCellulose Structure and Formation,an Energy Frontier Research Center funded by the U.S.Department of Energy,Office of Science,Basic Energy Sciences under Award#DE-SC0001090support from the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State University through the Patricia and Stephen Benkovic Research Initiativesupported by the Center for Engineering Mechano Biology(CEMB),an NSF Science and Technology Center,under grant agreement CMMI:15-48571。
文摘Plant cell wall(CW)-like soft materials,referred to as artificial CWs,are composites of assembled polymers containing micro-/nanoparticles or fibers/fibrils that are designed to mimic the composition,structure,and mechanics of plant CWs.CW-like materials have recently emerged to test hypotheses pertaining to the intricate structure–property relationships of native plant CWs or to fabricate functional materials.Here,research on plant CWs and CW-like materials is reviewed by distilling key studies on biomimetic composites primarily composed of plant polysaccharides,including cellulose,pectin,and hemicellulose,as well as organic polymers like lignin.Micro-and nanofabrication of plant CW-like composites,characterization techniques,and in silico studies are reviewed,with a brief overview of current and potential applications.Micro-/nanofabrication approaches include bacterial growth and impregnation,layer-by-layer assembly,film casting,3-dimensional templating microcapsules,and particle coating.Various characterization techniques are necessary for the comprehensive mechanical,chemical,morphological,and structural analyses of plant CWs and CW-like materials.CW-like materials demonstrate versatility in real-life applications,including biomass conversion,pulp and paper,food science,construction,catalysis,and reaction engineering.This review seeks to facilitate the rational design and thorough characterization of plant CW-mimetic materials,with the goal of advancing the development of innovative soft materials and elucidating the complex structure–property relationships inherent in native CWs.
基金support from the Postdoctoral Fellowship Scheme of The Chinese University of Hong Kong,the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(GZC20241828)The China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2024M763416).
文摘Emerging therapies rely on the efficient and specific delivery of targeted agents into the cytosol,such as DNA,siRNA and proteins.Nanoparticles showed great potentials in safe delivery and transportation of the targeted cargoes;however,the entrapment in endosomes and degradation by specific enzymes in the lysosome hindered the bioavailability,cytosolic delivery and subsequent therapeutic efficacy.In this case,the development of methods for efficient and specific delivery of targeted therapeutic agents focuses on overcoming the major challenge of endo/lysosomal escape,which relies on the development of safe and efficient nanodelivery systems.A deeper mechanistic understanding in the endo/lysosomal escape will guide the development of more efficient nano-delivery systems.In this review,we summarize various mechanisms by which nanoparticles escape from the endo/lysosome,and showcase the recent progress in dissecting the endo/lysosomal approaches based on nano-delivery systems.Emphasis will lie on the properties of nanoparticles that govern the endo/lysosomal escape pathway as well as the latest promising applications in vaccine delivery and genetic engineering field.
文摘The field of photocatalysis has witnessed a significant advancement in the development of bioinspired and biomimetic photocatalysts for various biomedical applications,including drug delivery,tissue engineering,cancer therapy,and bioimaging.Nature has evolved efficient light-harvesting systems and energy conversion mechanisms,which serve as a benchmark for researchers.However,reproducing such complexity and harnessing it for biomedical applications is a daunting task.It requires a comprehensive understanding of the underlying biological processes and the ability to replicate them synthetically.By utilizing light energy,these photocatalysts can trigger specific chemical reactions,leading to targeted drug release,enhanced tissue regeneration,and precise imaging of biological structures.In this context,addressing the stability,long-term performance,scalability,and costeffectiveness of these materials is crucial for their widespread implementation in biomedical applications.While challenges such as complexity and stability persist,their advantages such as targeted drug delivery and personalized medicine make them a fascinating area of research.The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of existing research,highlighting the advancements,current challenges,advantages,limitations,and future prospects of bioinspired and biomimetic photocatalysts in biomedicine.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,Nos.G2021KY05107,G2021KY05101the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.32071316,32211530049+1 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province,No.2022-JM482the Education and Teaching Reform Funds for the Central Universities,No.23GZ230102(all to LL and HH).
文摘Although previous studies have demonstrated that transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation protects the ischemic brain,clear criteria for the stimulation time window and intensity are lacking.Electrical impedance tomography enables real-time monitoring of changes in cerebral blood perfusion within the ischemic brain,but investigating the feasibility of using this method to assess post-stroke rehabilitation in vivo remains critical.In this study,ischemic stroke was induced in rats through middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery.Transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation was used to treat the rat model of ischemia,and electrical impedance tomography was used to measure impedance during both the acute stage of ischemia and the rehabilitation stage following the stimulation.Electrical impedance tomography results indicated that cerebral impedance increased after the onset of ischemia and decreased following transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation.Furthermore,the stimulation promoted motor function recovery,reduced cerebral infarction volume in the rat model of ischemic stroke,and induced the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the ischemic brain.Our results also revealed a significant correlation between the impedance of the ischemic brain post-intervention and improvements in behavioral scores and infarct volume.This study shows that daily administration of transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation for 20 minutes to the ischemic hemisphere 24 hours after cerebral ischemia enhanced motor recovery in a rat model of ischemia.Additionally,our findings indicate that electrical impedance tomography can serve as a valuable tool for quantitatively evaluating rehabilitation after ischemic stroke in vivo.These findings suggest the feasibility of using impedance data collected via electrical impedance tomography to clinically assess the effects of rehabilitatory interventions for patients with ischemic stroke.
基金supported by the Belle Carnell Regenerative Neurorehabilitation Fundthe National Institutes of Health(R01NS113935 to CKF)。
文摘Human spinal cord organoids(hSCOs)offer a promising platform to study neurotrauma by addressing many limitations of traditional research models.These organoids provide access to human-specific physiological and genetic mechanisms and can be derived from an individual's somatic cells(e.g.,blood or skin).This enables patient-specific paradigms for precision neurotrauma research,pa rticula rly relevant to the over 300,000 people in the United States living with chronic effects of spinal cord injury(SCI).
基金support from the Contract Research(“Development of Breathable Fabrics with Nano-Electrospun Membrane”,CityU ref.:9231419“Research and application of antibacterial and healing-promoting smart nanofiber dressing for children’s burn wounds”,CityU ref:PJ9240111)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(“Study of Multi-Responsive Shape Memory Polyurethane Nanocomposites Inspired by Natural Fibers”,Grant No.51673162)Startup Grant of CityU(“Laboratory of Wearable Materials for Healthcare”,Grant No.9380116).
文摘Radiative cooling systems(RCSs)possess the distinctive capability to dissipate heat energy via solar and thermal radiation,making them suitable for thermal regulation and energy conservation applications,essential for mitigating the energy crisis.A comprehensive review connecting the advancements in engineered radiative cooling systems(ERCSs),encompassing material and structural design as well as thermal and energy-related applications,is currently absent.Herein,this review begins with a concise summary of the essential concepts of ERCSs,followed by an introduction to engineered materials and structures,containing nature-inspired designs,chromatic materials,meta-structural configurations,and multilayered constructions.It subsequently encapsulates the primary applications,including thermal-regulating textiles and energy-saving devices.Next,it highlights the challenges of ERCSs,including maximized thermoregulatory effects,environmental adaptability,scalability and sustainability,and interdisciplinary integration.It seeks to offer direction for forthcoming fundamental research and industrial advancement of radiative cooling systems in real-world applications.
文摘MXene-based smart contact lenses demonstrate a cutting-edge advancement in wearable ophthalmic technology,combining real-time biosensing,therapeutic capabilities,and user comfort in a single platform.These devices take the advantage of the exceptional electrical conductivity,mechanical flexibility,and biocompatibility of two-dimensional MXenes to enable noninvasive,tear-based monitoring of key physiological markers such as intraocular pressure and glucose levels.Recent developments focus on the integration of transparent MXene films into the conventional lens materials,allowing multifunctional performance including photothermal therapy,antimicrobial and anti-inflammation protection,and dehydration resistance.These innovations offer promising strategies for ocular disease management and eye protection.In addition to their multifunctionality,improvements in MXene synthesis and device engineering have enhanced the stability,transparency,and wearability of these lenses.Despite these advances,challenges remain in long-term biostability,scalable production,and integration with wireless communication systems.This review summarizes the current progress,key challenges,and future directions of MXene-based smart contact lenses,highlighting their transformative potential in next-generation digital healthcare and ophthalmic care.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.22103055(to JG)the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province,No.F2024110001(to HC)Open Project of Tianjin Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Detection Technology and System,Nos.2024LODTS215(to NL),2024LODTS216(to XS).
文摘In recent years,exosomes have garnered extensive attention as therapeutic agents and early diagnostic markers in neurodegenerative disease research.Exosomes are small and can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier,allowing them to target deep brain lesions.Recent studies have demonstrated that exosomes derived from different cell types may exert therapeutic effects by regulating the expression of various inflammatory cytokines,mRNAs,and disease-related proteins,thereby halting the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and exhibiting beneficial effects.However,exosomes are composed of lipid bilayer membranes and lack the ability to recognize specific target cells.This limitation can lead to side effects and toxicity when they interact with non-specific cells.Growing evidence suggests that surface-modified exosomes have enhanced targeting capabilities and can be used as targeted drug-delivery vehicles that show promising results in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.In this review,we provide an up-to-date overview of existing research aimed at devising approaches to modify exosomes and elucidating their therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases.Our findings indicate that exosomes can efficiently cross the blood-brain barrier to facilitate drug delivery and can also serve as early diagnostic markers for neurodegenerative diseases.We introduce the strategies being used to enhance exosome targeting,including genetic engineering,chemical modifications(both covalent,such as click chemistry and metabolic engineering,and non-covalent,such as polyvalent electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions,ligand-receptor binding,aptamer-based modifications,and the incorporation of CP05-anchored peptides),and nanomaterial modifications.Research into these strategies has confirmed that exosomes have significant therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases.However,several challenges remain in the clinical application of exosomes.Improvements are needed in preparation,characterization,and optimization methods,as well as in reducing the adverse reactions associated with their use.Additionally,the range of applications and the safety of exosomes require further research and evaluation.
文摘Overt and harmful diabetes mellitus(DM)has detrimental effects on individuals and,by extension,the community.Among the microvascular DM complications is diabetic retinopathy(DR).DR may cause irreversible vision deterioration in cases of poor blood glucose regulation.Changes in vascular permeability are key trigger points for diabetic macular edema(DME),a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the macula.The development of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF)pathway inhibitors has provided a pathogenesis-based treatment approach for DME.Optical coherence tomography(OCT)provides highresolution imaging of the anatomy,including the aging of DME and its structural damage,in distinct morphologic subtypes of macular edema,thereby supporting the assessment of macular edema treatment.The availability of repeated OCT monitoring provides clinical reassurance through the treatment.OCT angiography(OCTA)provides retinal blood flow maps with high spatial resolution.The ability promotes an understanding of disease pathogenesis and facilitates the implementation of new therapeutic methods.This review compares the potential of OCT and OCTA in the diagnosis and treatment of DME,as well as their respective therapeutic applications.
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(“973 Program”,No.2012CB619100)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51372085)+1 种基金the Guangdong–Hongkong Common Technology Bidding Project(No.2013B010136003)the Postdoctoral Science Foundation of China(No.2013M542172)
文摘Gelatin/Alginate hydrogels were engineered for bioplotting in tissue engineering.One major drawback of hydrogel scaffolds is the lack of adequate mechanical properties.In this study,using a bioplotter,we constructed the scaffolds with different pore architectures by deposition of gelatin/alginate hydrogels layerby-layer.The scaffolds with different crosslinking degree were obtained by post-crosslinking methods.Their physicochemical properties,as well as cell viability,were assessed.Different crosslinking methods had little influence on scaffold architecture,porosity,pore size and distribution.By contrast,the water absorption ability,degradation rate and mechanical properties of the scaffolds were dramatically affected by treatment with various concentrations of crosslinking agent(glutaraldehyde).The crosslinking process using glutaraldehyde markedly improved the stability and mechanical strength of the hydrogel scaf-folds.Besides the post-processing methods,the pore architecture can also evidently affect the mechanical properties of the scaffolds.The crosslinked gelatin/alginate scaffolds showed a good potential to encap-sulate cells or drugs.
基金supported in part by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) (EB006433, EY023101, EB008389,and HL117664)the US National Science Foundation (NSF) (CBET1450956, CBET-1264782, and DGE-1069104),to Bin He
文摘In this paper, we review the current state- of-the-art techniques used for understanding the inner workings of the brain at a systems level. The neural activity that governs our everyday lives involves an intricate coordination of many processes that can be attributed to a variety of brain regions. On the surface, many of these functions can appear to be controlled by specific anatomical structures; however, in reality, numerous dynamic networks within the brain contribute to its function through an interconnected web of neuronal and synaptic pathways. The brain, in its healthy or pathological state, can therefore be best understood by taking a systems-level approach. While numerous neuroengineering technologies exist, we focus here on three major thrusts in the field of systems neuroengineering： neuroimaging, neural interfacing, and neuromodulation. Neuroimaging enables us to delineate the structural and functional organization of the brain, which is key in understanding how the neural system functions in both normal and disease states. Based on such knowledge, devices can be used either to communicate with the neural system, as in neural interface systems, or to modulate brain activity, as in neuromodulation systems. The consideration of these three fields is key to the development and application of neuro-devices. Feedback-based neuro-devices require the ability to sense neural activity （via a neuroimaging modality） through a neural interface （invasive or noninvasive） and ultimately to select a set of stimulation parameters in order to alter neural function via a neuromodulation modality. Systems neuroengineering refers to the use of engineering tools and technologies to image, decode, and modulate the brain in order to comprehend its functions and to repair its dysfunction. Interactions between these fields will help to shape the future of systems neuroengineering--to develop neurotechniques for enhancing the understanding of whole- brain function and dysfunction, and the management of neurological and mental disorders.
基金This work was supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(62022037,62105140,61775028,81571722 and 61528401)in part by Department of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province(2019ZT08Y191,SZBL2020090501013)+3 种基金Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials(2022B1212010003)Guangdong Provincial Department of Education(2021ZDZX1064)Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCYJ20200109141222892,KQTD20190-929172743294)in part by Startup grant from Southern University of Science and Technology.
文摘Microwave induced thermoacoustic imaging(MTAI)has emerged as a potential biomedical imaging modality with over 20-year growth.MTAI typically employs pulsed microwave as the pumping source,and detects the microwave-induced ultrasound wave via acoustic transducers.Therefore,it features high acoustic resolution,rich elect romagnetic contrast,and large imaging depth.Benefiting from these unique advantages,MTAI has been extensively applied to various fields including pathology,biology,material and medicine.Till now,MTAI has been deployed for a wide range of biomedical applications,including cancer diagnosis,joint evaluation,brain in-vestigation and endoscopy.This paper provides a comprehensive review on(1)essential physics(endogenous/exogenous contrast mechanisms,penetration depth and resolution),(2)hardware configurations and software implementations(excit ation source,antenna,ultrasound detector and image recovery algorithm),(3)animal studies and clinical applications,and(4)future directions.
基金partially supported by Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund(2018-MSCRFD-4271,to XJ)R01HL118084 and R01NS110387 from United States National Institutes of Health(both to XJ)
文摘Nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) are tubular structures that are used to bridge the gap of a severed nerve, thereby acting as a guide and protective micro-environment for the regenerating axons and as a barrier against the in-growth of scar-forming tissue. In the last few decades, the concept of NGCs has evolved from a research tool to investigate nerve regeneration into a translational product that is now being used clinically as an alternative for autologous nerve graft repair, due to their availability and ease of fabrication.
基金supported by the US DOD(W81XWH-12-2-0008)the National Institutes of Health(DE022327,HL136231,TR001711)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.31470915)
文摘Bone tissue engineering is an exciting approach to directly repair bone defects or engineer bone tissue for transplantation.Biomaterials play a pivotal role in providing a template and extracellular environment to support regenerative cells and promote tissue regeneration. A variety of signaling cues have been identified to regulate cellular activity, tissue development, and the healing process. Numerous studies and trials have shown the promise of tissue engineering, but successful translations of bone tissue engineering research into clinical applications have been limited, due in part to a lack of optimal delivery systems for these signals. Biomedical engineers are therefore highly motivated to develop biomimetic drug delivery systems, which benefit from mimicking signaling molecule release or presentation by the native extracellular matrix during development or the natural healing process. Engineered biomimetic drug delivery systems aim to provide control over the location, timing, and release kinetics of the signal molecules according to the drug's physiochemical properties and specific biological mechanisms. This article reviews biomimetic strategies in signaling delivery for bone tissue engineering, with a focus on delivery systems rather than specific molecules. Both fundamental considerations and specific design strategies are discussed with examples of recent research progress, demonstrating the significance and potential of biomimetic delivery systems for bone tissue engineering.
基金This study was financially supported by the Fund for Shanxi"1331 Project"Key Innovative Research Team(No.PY201809)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanxi Province(No.201801D121093)Hong Kong Research Grants Council General Research Funds(No.CityU 11205617).
文摘Stents made of nearly equiatomic NiTi alloy are used to treat malignant obstruction caused by cancer,but prevention of re-obstruction after surgery is still a challenge because the bare stents possess poor anticancer and antibacterial properties to inhibit cancer/bacteria invasion.The present work aims at endowing the NiTi alloy with anticancer and antibacterial abilities by surface modification.Ni–Ti–O nanoporous layers with different thicknesses were prepared on NiTi by anodization,and biological experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects on gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus,human lung epithelial cancer cells(A549),as well as human endothelial cells(EA.hy926).The nanoporous layer with a thickness of 10.1 lm inhibits growth of cancer cells and kill bacteria but shows little adverse effects on normal cells.Such selectivity is related to the larger amount of Ni ions leached from the sample in the acidic microenvironment of cancer cells in comparison with normal cells.The Ni–Ti–O nanoporous layers are promising as coatings on NiTi stents to prevent re-obstruction after surgery.
基金supported by The Plastic Surgery Foundation Research Pilot Grant,No.627383(to KAS).
文摘Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenging problem in need of better treatment strategies.Despite best efforts at surgical reconstruction and postoperative rehabilitation,patients are often left with persistent,debilitating motor and sensory deficits.There are currently no therapeutic strategies proven to enhance the regenerative process in humans.A clinical need exists for the development of technologies to promote nerve regeneration and improve functional outcomes.Recent advances in the fields of tissue engineering and nanotechnology have enabled biomaterial scaffolds to modulate the host response to tissue repair through tailored mechanical,chemical,and conductive cues.New bioengineered approaches have enabled targeted,sustained delivery of protein therapeutics with the capacity to unlock the clinical potential of a myriad of neurotrophic growth factors that have demonstrated promise in enhancing regenerative outcomes.As such,further exploration of combinatory strategies leveraging these technological advances may offer a pathway towards clinically translatable solutions to advance the care of patients with peripheral nerve injuries.This review first presents the various emerging bioengineering strategies that can be applied for the management of nerve gap injuries.We cover the rationale and limitations for their use as an alternative to autografts,focusing on the approaches to increase the number of regenerating axons crossing the repair site,and facilitating their growth towards the distal stump.We also discuss the emerging growth factor-based therapeutic strategies designed to improve functional outcomes in a multimodal fashion,by accelerating axonal growth,improving the distal regenerative environment,and preventing end-organs atrophy.
