In parallel with the development of BTE, the interest in the design of biomaterials able to stimulate the regeneration of bone tissue has increased. Since the relevance of trace elements in natural bone tissue is well demonstrated, and ions such as lithium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, silicon and Sr were proven to enhance osteogenesis and neovascularization, the incorporation of dopants into biomaterials to favor bone healing was suggested by several researchers
[5][28][29][30][31]. Researchers addressed the functionalization with Sr of the materials most commonly used for BTE, namely calcium phosphate ceramics, bioactive glasses, metal-based materials, and polymers. In addition, Sr-enriched biomaterials are interesting alternatives to the traditional SrRan; these smart materials allow the local delivery of Sr ions without the negative side effects that occur with the systemic administratiosn.
4.1. Calcium Phosphate Ceramics
Calcium phosphate (CaP) ceramics are minerals composed of Ca cations and phosphate anions. CaP possess osteoconductive and osteoinductive characteristics and are able to dissolve in body fluids, thus exhibiting degradation and ion release
[32].
These properties positively affect bioactivity in terms of cell adhesion, proliferation, and new bone formation. Ca ions of CaP enhance bone formation and maturation by (i) inducing the growth of bone cell precursors, (ii) stimulating osteoblastic bone synthesis pathway
[33], (iii) increasing the life span of osteoblasts
[34]. In addition, Ca ions regulate the formation and the resorptive functions of osteoclasts
[35].
Alongside Ca ions effects, phosphorus ions regulate the differentiation and growth of the osteoblastic lineage and exert a negative feedback interaction between RANKL and its receptor, inhibiting osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption
[36][37][38][39].
Since CaP are stiff and slow degrading materials, with structural similarity to natural bone, they are generally combined with biodegradable polymers to guarantee better structures and to enhance the mechanical performance, too low for clinical applications. The most commonly used CaP ceramics are hydroxyapatite (HA), β-tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP), a mixture of the previous two materials
[40]. Sr ions can be incorporated into CaP by adsorption on the surface of the mineral or, thanks to the chemical similarity between Sr and Ca, by replacing Ca with the bond to the crystalline lattice structure
[14]. Laskus et al. reviewed the recent achievements in the field of non-apatitic CaP materials substituted with various ions, with particular attention to tricalcium phosphates and additives such as magnesium, zinc, Sr, and silicate ions
[41]. HA-based scaffolds are considered an optimum material for orthopedic applications due to their chemical similarity to human bone and biocompatibility; the functionalization with Sr ions makes them more suitable for osteoporotic applications
[42]. When HA-based cements are functionalized with Sr, enhanced mechanical bonding with the host tissue also under weight-bearing conditions was observed
[43][44].
Furthermore, Sr-doped CaPS stimulated new bone growth in vivo up to 10% when implanted in segmental defects of rabbit foreleg radius
[45].
In the work of Thormann et al, a critical-size metaphyseal defect in the femur of ovariectomized rats was filled with a Sr-modified calcium phosphate cement (SrCPC)
[46]. The SrCPC, when compared to Sr-free counterpart or empty defects, showed a higher new bone formation both at the biomaterial-bone interface and in the entire fracture defect area. Using flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) the researchers detected high count rates Sr for SrCPC both in the interface region and up to a distance of 6mm to the implant, demonstrating that the enhanced new bone formation is due to local release from the SrCPC. In addition, an increased expression of ALP, OCN and type X collagen (COL10) alongside the reduction of RANKL expression were detected in the SrCPC group.
Another important ability of calcium phosphate materials doped with Sr is the stimulation of endothelial cell proliferation and tubule formation, a desirable angiogenic ability useful for the regenerative potential
[47]
Synthesized HA coatings with different proportions of Sr substitution for Ca (1, 3, or 7%) by pulsed-laser deposition were challenged with human osteoblast-like cells and osteoclasts. An enhanced osteoblast activity and differentiation alongside the inhibition of osteoclast differentiation were recorded for the highest concentration of Sr, with potentially positive effects in vivo, such as enhanced osseointegration and reduced bone resorption
[48]. Interconnected porous microcarriers (Sr10–HA-g-PBLG) were prepared by grafting poly(γ-benzyl-l-glutamate) (PBLG) on Sr10–HA (Sr-doped HA) nanoparticles. The Sr10-HA-PBLG microcarriers showed a controlled-degradation rate and long-term release of Sr. Cellular evaluation with rabbit adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) demonstrated cell adhesion, infiltration, proliferation and the promotion of osteogenic differentiation. In vivo evaluation of bone repair potential was carried out in a critical bone defect in a rabbit model where the Sr10-HA-PBLG microcarriers seeded with ADSCs showed successful healing of the femoral bone defect
[49]. Another type of Sr-HA particles was developed by Lourenço et al. by shielding the Sr-doped HA microspheres with RGD-alginate. The bone regeneration potential of the system was tested in a critical-sized metaphyseal bone defect model in Wistar Han male rats. Higher new bone formation and cell invasion were detected in the defect for the Sr-containing group compared to the Sr-free counterpart. In addition, no alteration in Sr levels in systemic organs or serum was registered
[50]. Fu et al. developed a porous-core shell biphasic microspheres with 4 wt% Sr-substituted calcium silicate (CSi-Sr4) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (CaP). The effective bone regeneration process when implanted in a skull bone defect of rabbits was obtained after 12 weeks
[51]. Liu et al. developed a three-dimensional (3D)-printed Sr-HA/poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (SrHA/PCL) scaffold. Rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were seeded onto the scaffold to demonstrate that the incorporation of Sr-HA improves cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation compared to Sr-free counterparts. Implantation of SrHA/PCL scaffold in a skull defect model in Sprague Dawley rats revealed the promotion of bone regeneration 12 weeks after implantation
[52]. Porous Sr-doped (SCPC) calcium phosphate cement (CPC) scaffolds were created utilizing 3D plotting and implanted in trabecular bone defects in sheep. After 6 months, the bone formation was significantly enhanced in Sr-containing scaffold compared to Sr-free
[53]. Xie et al. observed the dual effect of porous Sr-doped calcium polyphosphate scaffold (SCPP) under different Ca concentrations. When SCPP was implanted in a rabbit critical size calvarial bone, a microenvironment with a high Ca concentration, Sr accelerated bone formation, while when implanted in a subcutaneous site, considered a low Ca microenvironment, Sr inhibited bone regeneration. Thus, Sr actively participates in osteogenesis under Ca-enriched microenvironments
[54]. Salamanna et al. developed a Sr-β-tricalcium phosphate (Sr-βTCP) to be tested in a spinal bone defect model in rats, to find that the implanted scaffold seeded with undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow (BMSC) led to a significant spinal fusion
[55]. An interesting type of calcium phosphate-based bone substitute is deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM), a bone substitute of natural origin, widely used in bone augmentation procedures since it maintains the natural architecture of bone with CaP crystals similar to human bone HA
[56]. Aroni et al. functionalized with Sr ions the surface of deproteinized bovine bone (Sr-DBB) to be used as implantable material for calvarial critical size defect in rats (5 mm in diameter), with two different doses of Sr loaded onto DBB particles: 19.6 μg/g and 98.1 μg/g. For both concentrations of Sr a fewer number of inflammatory cells in the bone defect site was observed and a higher amount of new bone formation was detected at 60 days when compared to Sr-free counterpart
[57]. Also Elgali et al. functionalized a deproteinized bovine bone (DBB) with SrHA powders with three levels of Ca substitution by Sr: 5% (SrHA005), 25% (SrHA025) and 50% (SrHA050). Defects created in the trabecular region of rat femurs were filled with these materials and covered with a resorbable collagenous membrane. After 6 days, larger amount of bone, reduced expression of osteoclastic genes (CR and CatK) and osteoblast–osteoclast coupling gene (RANKL) were observed in the defect treated with Sr in comparison to Sr-free counterparts
[58].
4.2. Bioactive Glasses
Bioactive glasses (BGs) are a class of synthetic inorganic biomaterials introduced in the early 1970s by Larry Hench, with the first commercialized glass named Bioglass® 45S5. BGs are widely studied for clinical applications due to their high biocompatibility and bioactivity: they easily bind to bone and soft connective tissue when implanted in vivo and release ions in the biological fluids, leading to the formation of a bone-like apatite layer on the implant surface and promoting cellular adhesion and proliferation of osteogenic cells
[59][60][61]. The tunable degradation rate, the ionic release with osteogenic potential and the ability to become an HA-like material make the BGs suitable for BTE applications, even if mechanically brittle. To overcome this drawback, BGs may be combined with polymers to simulate the elastic modulus of bone better, while exhibiting increased toughness, strength, and fatigue resistance
[62].
To enhance the bioactive properties, BG may be doped with ions which increase the beneficial effects for healthy bone growth
[63][64][65]. In the case of BGs the level of Sr substitution modulates the amount of released strontium ions, the structure of the glass network, and consequently, the degradation and bioactivity properties
[66]. Indeed, when an element is substituted by weight for another lighter element, important effects on structure and properties, as well as on biological response, may be detected. Since Sr is heavier than Ca, the substitution of 10% of the weight of Ca with Sr ions leads to less number of Sr atoms in the material
[66].
As observed by Zhang et al., the incorporation of Sr ions in mesoporous BG (MBG) combines the therapeutic effects of Sr ions with the bioactivity of MBG in favor of bone regeneration. This combination can stimulate in vitro the proliferation of bone marrow-derived stromal cells and the expression of osteoblast commitment markers, i.e., ALP, COL1, RUNX2, and bone gamma-carboxyglutamate protein (BGLAP). In addition, the implantation of Sr-MBG scaffolds in critical sized femur defects in ovariectomized rats significantly stimulated new bone formation. It was observed that Sr release in blood was very low, and the excretion of Sr, Si, Ca, and P by urine was comparable to blank control animals
[67].
Fiorilli et al. developed Sr-MBGs in the form of microspheres and nanoparticles through two different synthesis procedures, a base-catalyzed sol-gel and an aerosol-assisted spray-drying method
[68]. The researchers demonstrated the absence of cytotoxic effect on fibroblast cells (line L929) and the absence of inflammatory response on a murine macrophage cell line J774a.1. Moreover, the pro-osteogenic effect on osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells was shown, with the stimulation of the expression of COL1, osteonectin (SPARC - secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine) and OPG and the downregulation of RANKL.
Pontremoli et al. modified post-synthesis Sr-MBGs by co-grafting hydrolyzable short chain silanes containing amino (aminopropylsilanetriol) and carboxylate (carboxyethylsilanetriol) moieties to achieve a zwitterion zero-charge surface
[69]. The absence of cytotoxic effect on MC3T3-E1 cells, the early promotion of osteogenic differentiation and the mineral matrix deposition were observed. In addition, a significant reduction of non-specific serum protein adsorption was detected, underling the potential promotion of bone regeneration and the simultaneous inhibition of non-specific biomolecules adhesion.
Fiorilli et al. bio-functionalized Sr-MBGs with ICOS-Fc, a recombinant molecule able to reversibly inhibit osteoclast activity by binding the respective ligand (ICOS-L), inducing the decrease of bone resorption activity, as described in a patent (WO/2016/189428) by the researchers
[70]. The absence of cytotoxic effect of Sr-MBGs-ICOS-Fc was evaluated on MC3T3-E1 cells. Successively, the researchers confirmed the inhibitory effect of grafted ICOS-Fc on cell migratory activity by using ICOSL positive cell lines, PC-3 (prostate cancer), and U2OS (osteosarcoma). Finally, the ability to inhibit osteoclast differentiation and function was confirmed on monocyte-derived osteoclasts (MDOCs) cultured up to 21 days and exposed to Sr-MBGs-ICOS-Fc. A strong inhibition of MDOCs differentiation and a decreased formation of multinuclear tartrate-resistant acidic phosphatase (TRAP) positively stained cells were observed, together with a significant decrease in the mRNA expression of DC-STAMP, OSCAR, and NFATc1.
In the context of silicate glass, Autefage et al. developed a 3D porous Sr-containing BG-based scaffold (pSrBG) and evaluated the absence of cytotoxic effect with MC3T3-E1 cells and the ability of bone marrow-derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to grow on the scaffold. Successively, the researchers implanted the scaffold in a critical-sized femoral condyle defect in sheep and observed the promotion of the formation of well-organized lamellar neo-bone tissue. In particular, the Sr-containing scaffold allowed for obtaining a more mature-like lamellar bone, rather than woven bone, in comparison to the Sr-counterpart
[71]. Shaltooki et al. fabricated porous nanocomposite scaffolds made of polycaprolactone (PCL) coated with a thin chitosan layer containing 15 wt% Sr-substituted BG nanoparticles (nanoparticles containing 7 wt% Sr). In vitro experiments using the MG-63 cell line showed the absence of cytotoxic effects, cell adhesion, and healthy cell morphology, as well as enhanced ALP activity in comparison to Sr-free counterpart
[72]. Bellucci et al. developed bioactive glass granules combining Sr and Mg. After verifying the biocompatibility of the system with the L929 fibroblast cell line, the researchers used a 3D cellular model of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells to predict the impact of the bioactive glass granules on bone tissue. Adhesion, proliferation, and osteo-lineage differentiation were recorded
[73]. Zhang et al. fabricated a temperature-sensitive p(N-isopropylacry-lamide-co-butyl methylacrylate) nanogel (PIB nanogel) scaffold functionalized with Sr-containing MBG (Sr-MBG) (1:1 mass ratio of Sr-MBG powder/PIB nanogel) to improve mechanical strength. In vitro tests with primary rat MSCs seeded onto the scaffold demonstrated an enhanced cell proliferation and ALP in the Sr-containing system compared to PIB nanogel only. The scaffold implantation into a femur defect in osteopenic rats showed that the scaffolds were able to regenerate these complicated and slow-healing critical-sized bone defects in OVX animals
[74]. Different results were obtained by Poh et al. who fabricated and characterized 3D bioactive composite scaffolds of polycaprolactone (PCL) containing 45S5 Bioglass (45S5) or Sr-substituted bioactive glass (SrBG) (PCL/45S5 and PCL/SrBG). In vitro tests with MC3T3 cells showed biocompatibility and positive influence of the biomaterial on cell attachment and proliferation. However, PCL/45S5 and PCL/SrBG did not induce any difference in terms of ALP activity
[75].
Wu et al. investigated whether the presence of Sr in mesoporous bioactive glass scaffold (Sr-MBG scaffold) could stimulate osteogenic/cementogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) in a tissue-engineering scaffold system. Beyond the controlled release of Sr-MBG scaffolds, the presence of Sr significantly stimulated ALP activity and osteogenesis/cementogenesis-related gene expression of PDLCs
[76]. Another example of Sr-containing mesoporous bioactive glass (Sr-MBG) scaffolds was fabricated by Zhang et al. using a 3D printing technique by preparing injectable Sr-MBG paste and adding them to 10% of PVA solution (5% or 10% or 20% of Ca was substituted with Sr). In vitro tests using MC3T3-E1 cells showed higher cell proliferation, higher ALP activity, enhanced expression of osteogenic markers RUNX2, OCN, BMP-2, COL1, and BSP, and ECM mineralized nodules formation in comparison to the Sr-free counterpart
[77]. Ren et al. employing melt electrospinning developed a PCL composite scaffold incorporating 10% (weight) of Sr-substituted bioactive glass (SrBG) particles. Biological evaluation with MC3T3-E1 cells showed enhanced ALP activity, higher expression of ALP and OCN genes, and higher ECM formation compared to PCL-only scaffolds
[78]. Midha et al. printed 3D hybrid constructs of silk-gelatin-bioactive glass (SF-G-BG) using two different compositions of melt-derived BGs with and without Sr. Sr-containing SF-G-BG constructs demonstrated superior osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, that is the up-regulation of a RUNX2, ALP, osteopontin (OPN), SPARC, BSP, and OCN expression
[79]. Poh et al. developed PCL-based composite scaffolds containing 50 wt% of 45S5 Bioglass (45S5) or Sr-substituted bioactive glass (SrBG) particles by additive manufacturing technique. In addition, the scaffolds were coated with calcium phosphate (CaP). In vitro cell studies using sheep-derived bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) showed positive cell adhesion, growth, proliferation and up-regulation of osteogenic gene expression. The implantation of the scaffolds subcutaneously into nude rats to demonstrate the osteoinductivity potential showed the host tissue well infiltrated into the scaffolds but no mature bone formation
[80]. Baheiraei et al. observed that gelatin-Sr-bioactive glass scaffolds (Gel-BG/Sr) display in vitro antibacterial properties against
Escherichia coli and, in comparison to counterparts having no Sr ions, also against
Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, Gel-BG/Sr scaffolds demonstrated a more enhanced deposition of newly-formed bone tissue in a rabbit calvarial bone defect in comparison to Sr-free counterpart
[81]. Beside silicate BGs, borate BGs have been recently considered as attractive materials for several biomedical applications. Potential drawback may be the coordination number of boron that does not allow the formation of fully 3D structures, leading to lower resistance and higher degradation rate when in contact with body fluids. Consequently, the cytotoxicity must always be carefully evaluated
[82]. In the context of borate glasses, Cui et al. reinforced poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) cements and enhanced their bioactivity by incorporating Sr-containing borate BG (SrBG). The presence of SrBG promoted adhesion, migration, proliferation and collagen secretion of MC3T3-E1 cells in vitro. When the biomaterial was implanted in a tibia defect in Sprague–Dawley rats, better osseointegration at 12 weeks post-implantation was observed compared to Sr-free counterpart
[83]. Fernandes et al. fabricated a composite bioactive poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) membrane loaded with 10% (
w/
w) of Sr-borosilicate BG (BBG-Sr) particles (PLLA-BBG-Sr) using electrospinning. In vitro tests with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) showed the promotion of the osteogenic differentiation with increased ALP activity and the up-regulation of osteogenic gene expression (ALP, SP7 and BGLAP) in comparison to PLLA alone
[84]. The same researchers highlighted the capacity of BBG-Sr particles to induce osteogenic differentiation of BM-MSCs when maintained in culture in indirect contact with the material by means of a transwell device. Indeed, favorable conditions for BM-MSC differentiation towards osteoblast-like cells and the induction of the formation of a high amount of mineralized nodules were observed
[85]. Phosphate-based BGs are typically used in those clinical applications which require high dissolution rates of the implant
[86]. In the case of phosphate-based glasses, Sr ions seem to locate near the chain ends preferentially
[87]. Patel et al. produced discs and microspheres using Sr (0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 mol%)-substituted phosphate-based glass (PBGs). The researchers reported the cytocompatibility and osteogenic potential by directly seeding MG-63 cells onto glass discs and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) onto microspheres
[88].
4.3. Metal-Based Materials
Among the metal-based materials, the most frequently used in medicine and dentistry are titanium (Ti) and tantalum (Ta). Ti, in the form of commercially pure titanium and Ti alloys, is widely adopted in BTE applications thanks to its superior properties, specific strength, high performance, and versatility in the production of porous scaffolds, coatings, nanotubes, nanolayers, disks, and mini-screws. In addition, Ti shows excellent corrosion resistance, good hard-tissue biocompatibility, and bonding ability, alongside the ability to sustain bone formation
[89].
Ti is chemically and mechanically stable, non-toxic and exhibits biocompatibility coupled with mechanical strength and good resistance to corrosion
[90]. However, Ti does not fulfill the rapid osseointegration requirement in regenerative clinical use; consequently, surface modifications, such as the inclusion of osteogenic elements, have been applied to intensify its bone regeneration properties.
Xin et al. developed a novel method for the controlled release of Sr from a bioactive SrTiO3 nanotube array on Ti implants, produced by a simple hydrothermal treatment of an anodized titania nanotube array. This device can release Sr at a slow rate for a long time, with good interaction with cells, i.e., cell attachment and proliferation together with the formation of HA
[91]. Another example of nanotubes was developed by Mi et al.: coatings containing TiO
2 nanotubes (NTs) incorporated with Sr on titanium (Ti) surfaces (NT-Sr) through hydrothermal treatment were tested both in vitro and in vivo. The researchers observed the inhibition of osteoclast differentiation by reducing the expression of osteoclast marker genes, i.e., RANKL-induced activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), Akt, and the nuclear factor of activated T-cell cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) signaling pathways. NT-Sr were then implanted in ovariectomized rats, and the prevention of bone loss was observed
[92]. Mumith et al. developed laser-sintered porous cylindrical Ti6Al4V implants with pore sizes of Ø 700 μm and Ø 1500 μm with electrochemically HA-coated, silicon-substituted HA (SiHA), and Sr-substituted HA (SrHA). The implants were tested in vivo in ovine femoral condylar defects for 6 weeks. The coated implants significantly promoted bone attachment to the implant surfaces with improved osseointegration compared to uncoated scaffolds
[93].
Okuzu et al. evaluated the bioactivity of surface-treated Ti disks with Sr (Sr-Ti). In vitro evaluation with MC3T3-E1 cells revealed that proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, i.e., expression of integrin β1, β-catenin, and cyclin D1, osteogenic gene expression, ALP activity, and extracellular mineralization were enhanced. In vivo studies in rabbits demonstrated a major biomechanical strength and bone-implant contact for Sr-Ti compared to a Sr-free counterpart
[94].
Lee et al. studied whether the surface bioactive ion modification in combination with the surface nanotopography of Ti disks exerts a positive induction of regenerative M2 macrophage polarization. The researchers cultured mouse J774.A1 macrophage cells on commercially pure Ti disks with the surface functionalized with Sr ions. The regenerative M2 macrophage phenotype was observed, and the researchers underlined the potential beneficial effects for the early resolution of the inflammatory state, and subsequently the favorable osteogenesis of Ti implants
[95].
The surface of commercially pure Ti disks with a wet-abraded smooth or grit-blasted micro-rough surface underwent bioactive ion surface modification using Sr ions. Mesenchymal stem cells (primary murine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells –mBMSCs- and human multipotent adipose stem cells -hASCs-) were used to evaluate the osteogenic capacity of nano-topographically and chemically modified Ti
[96]. In vitro tests demonstrated that cell spreading, focal adhesion development, ALP activity, and gene expression of some integrins important for subsequent osteogenic differentiation were enhanced in mBMSCs grown on the nano/Sr surface. In addition, when hASCs were cultured on the samples, osteogenic differentiation was enhanced thanks to the presence of Sr ions
[96].
Also, Zhou et al. evaluated metallic Ti disks and wires with microporous TiO
2 coatings doped with Sr ions directly deposited on the metallic substrates using micro-arc oxidation (MAO). When biomaterials were tested with bone marrow MSCs from New Zealand rabbits, cell proliferation and osteogenesis-related gene expression were found enhanced in Sr- containing materials in comparison to Sr-free counterparts. In addition, antibacterial activity against
Staphylococcus aureus and
Escherichia coli was higher in the presence of Sr. When the biomaterials were implanted into femoral shafts of New Zealand male rabbits, osseointegration was observed, confirming in vitro results obtained from MSC proliferation and osteogenic differentiation tests
[97].
Offermanns et al. tested in vivo, in femoral condyle defects of New Zealand White rabbits, Sr-functionalized (Ti-Sr-O) titanium implants, as an 8 mm-long cylinder with a maximum outer diameter of 3.75 mm. After an implantation period of two to twelve weeks, histological and tomographic analysis of bone-to-implant contact and bone formation were performed. The acceleration of bone apposition made the implant a potential device for endosseous implants
[98].
Similar results in terms of enhanced osteogenic differentiation in vitro and promotion of osseointegration were collected by Wang et al. with alkali-heat treated titanium (AH-Ti) samples coated with SrTiO
3 nanolayer by magnetron sputtering to produce a long-term Sr-releasing implant system. Different deposition durations, i.e. 30, 90, and 150 min were considered, and samples were denoted as AH-Ti/Sr30, AH-Ti/Sr90, AH-Ti/Sr150, respectively. In vitro biocompatibility with MC3T3-E1 cells demonstrated the best cytocompatibility for AH-Ti/Sr90, including cell morphology, cell viability, cell differentiation and enhanced osteogenic differentiation while hindering osteoclastogenesis. In vivo implantation in the femur of female adult Sprague Dawley rats both in normal and osteoporotic models showed that AH-Ti/Sr90 significantly promoted the osseointegration
[99].
Encouraging results in terms of osseointegration were collected by Alenezi et al. when testing mini-screw made of cp (commercially pure) Ti grade IV deposited with SrRan loaded mesoporous titania (MT) thin coatings. Mini screws with and without SrRan were tested in tibial defects of Sprague Dawley female rats. The histological analysis revealed woven bone formation around the surface of all implants after 2 weeks, but no statistically significant differences between control and test groups were detected
[100].
Some materials have been conceived with a combined functionalization of Sr and Ag, which grants the implant additional antibacterial properties.
Li et al. modified the surface of a porous titanium scaffold with Sr and Ag ions (AH-Sr-AgNPs) to reduce postoperative infection and improve osteogenesis due to the release of Ag and Sr in a temporal-spatial manner. In vitro tests showed an adverse microenvironment for
Escherichia coli and
Staphylococcus aureus survival, M2 polarization of macrophages by using Raw 264.7 cells, and the promotion of pre-osteoblast differentiation with higher expression of ALP, RUNX2, and COL1 by using MC3T3 cells. In vivo test on infected New Zealand rabbit femoral metaphysis defects demonstrated osteogenic property of AH-Sr-AgNPs implants. In conclusion, the dual delivery of Sr and Ag has the potential of achieving an enhanced osteogenic outcome through favorable immunoregulation
[101].
Another example of Sr and Ag combination is an additive manufacturing topologically ordered porous implant made from Ti-6Al-4V that is form-freedom to enable the realization of patient-specific implants. The implant was functionalized with Sr and Ag ions using plasma electrolytic oxidation: the addition of Ag to Sr completely prevented bacteria (methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus) from adhering onto the surface of biomaterials. The long term release of ions until 28 days demonstrated the antibacterial activity behavior both in vitro and in an ex vivo murine model. Moreover, enhanced osteogenic induction in M3T3-E1 cells with higher levels of ALP activity was observed when compared with non-biofunctionalized implants
[102]. Cheng et al. developed Sr and Ag loaded nanotubular structures (NT–Ag-Sr) with a controlled and prolonged release. Sr incorporation enhanced cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on the implant surface, and up-regulated the expression of osteogenic genes and induced mineralization. In parallel, the release of Ag ions allows antibacterial activity in vitro against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative bacterium
Escherichia coli by reducing bacteria attachment. In vivo experiments after implantation of NT–Ag-Sr in tibia defects of normal and osteoporotic Sprague Dawley rats showed the accelerated formation of new bone in both osteoporosis and bone defect models, as confirmed by X-ray, micro-CT evaluation, and histomorphometric analysis
[103].
4.4. Polymers
Polymers used in BTE are of synthetic and natural origin. Synthetic polymers are constantly investigated in the biomedical field thanks to the possibility of tailoring their properties throughout the manufacturing process. During their synthesis, it is possible to define the purity and the reproducible chemical/mechanical properties with low costs in the production, even if on a large scale. However, the poor biocompatibility and the potential side effects due to their biodegradation products make the biological evaluation essential. Also, the effects of the long-term persistence in the body of non-resorbable polymers should be studied
[104].
On the other hand, the natural polymers possess (i) high biocompatibility and similarity to the native ECM, (ii) bioactivity, iii) cell recognition and adhesion sites, (iv) gradual bioresorbability
[105][106].
Natural polymers commonly used in bone-related applications include collagen, fibrin, alginate, silk and chitosan
[107]. Due to the variability of the sources and to the properties depending on the extraction procedures, the manufacturing process is not always standardized. In addition, the methods used for the conversion process are often expensive and difficult to be performed.
Pure natural polymers cannot mimic the mechanical properties of bone due to their inadequate mechanical strength and low stability, but they provide beneficial effects for cell attachment, proliferation and differentiation. Natural polymers are also more susceptible to cross-contamination and immunogenicity.
To overcome these potential drawbacks, synthetic polymers with more tunable characteristics, such as polylactic acid (PLA), poly(glycolic acid) PGA, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), and polycaprolactone (PCL), are largely employed
[40].
The possibility to combine different polymers and to functionalize with inorganic phases at multiple levels to tailor hybrid materials for bone regenerative applications is an interesting strategy. In addition, the physicochemical properties and the bioactivity can be controlled, as well as the final form of the material, i.e. 3D scaffolds, hydrogels, microspheres, and their composites
[108].
Collagen scaffolds have been reinforced with Sr−graphene oxide to improve mechanical properties, allowing a long-term release of Sr and consequent enhancement of bone regeneration in a critical-size defect in rats after 12 weeks of implantation
[109].
Montalbano et al. fabricated MBGs containing 4% molar of Sr (Sr/Ca/Si = 4/11/85) exploiting a base-catalyzed sol-gel method. Sr-doped MBGs were mixed with a 1.5 wt % collagen solution to create a collagen-based hybrid material for further exploitation with 3D-printing technology. In a first work, the hybrid formulation was cross-linked with 4-star poly (ethylene glycol) ether tetrasuccinimidyl glutarate (4-StarPEG) and tested in vitro with MG-63 cells. The seeding of MG-63 on the top of bulk material demonstrated cell adhesion with good viability
[110]. In a second work, the hybrid formulation was cross-linked with genipin dissolved in 70% ethanol. The biocompatibility of the hybrid system was confirmed by using MG-63 and Saos-2 cell lines. In addition, the use of genipin in 70% EtOH as crosslinking solution resulted in a significant decrease of Sr release during the crosslinking reaction time
[111]. Successively, the same researchers prepared 1.5% wt collagen hydrogel containing MBGs incorporating 4% molar of Sr (MBG_Sr4%) produced via the sol-gel route. The bulk samples were tested by employing an indirect co-culture of human osteoblasts and osteoclast precursors. Sr-enriched mesoporous BGs have structural and physicochemical properties that support the viability and proliferation of co-cultured human bone-derived cells, with multiple signals differently affecting the osteoblast and the osteoclast precursors
[112].
Fenbo et al. developed a chondroitin sulfate/silk fibroin blended membrane with a microporous structure loaded with different concentrations of Sr. In vitro results demonstrated the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 cells and the upregulation of osteogenic factors in human osteoblasts
[113].
Similarly, Lu et al. evaluated in vitro and in vivo the feasibility of Sr-loaded silk fibroin nanofibrous membrane (Sr-SFM) for guided bone regeneration. The researchers observed in vitro the enhancement of cell numbers and ALP activity of rat bone marrow stromal cells (rBMSCs) cultured on Sr-SFM compared to Sr-free counterpart and a more pronounced bone formation when implanted in rat calvarial defect model after 6 weeks of healing
[114]. Luz et al. developed a hybrid material composed of bacterial cellulose (BC) and HA loaded with Sr. The researchers observed that the delivery of Sr can be modulated during bone repair depending on the strategy of Sr functionalization into the matrix of the material
[115]. Cheng et al. developed a Sr-containing scaffold (CPB/PCL/Sr) based on superficially porous calcined porcine bone (CPB) by a sequential coating of SrCl2 and polycaprolactone (PCL), with improved bone-forming ability as a promising alternative to bone defect repair materials. When tested with human MSCs, CPB/PCL/Sr scaffold induced a remarkable osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, while when implanted in a bone defect in tibia defect of male SD rats, a higher bone mass formation was observed in comparison to Sr-free counterpart
[116].
Concerning PCL, Lino et al. developed a blend of PCL and poly(diisopropyl fumarate) enriched with 1% or 5% Sr, to be tested both in vitro and in vivo to find that the low Sr-containing blend induces an improved bone tissue regeneration. Indeed, in vitro blend with 5% Sr was pro-inflammatory and anti-osteogenic, while blend with 1% Sr was not cytotoxic on cultured macrophages and demonstrated an improved osteocompatibility with primary cultures of bone marrow stromal cells. In vivo experiments showed a significantly increased bone tissue regeneration and improved fibrous bridging for the blend with 1% Sr
[117].
Again with PCL polymer, Prabha et al. developed a PCL–laponite–SrRan composite scaffold (PLS3) and observed cell growth and osteogenic differentiation in vitro when tested with human telomerase immortalized bone marrow derived skeletal stem cell line, and vascularized ectopic bone formation when hMSC loaded-PLS3 was implanted subcutaneously in NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/J mice
[118].
In the last years, microparticles have been investigated as a carrier for cartilage and bone tissue regenerative approaches
[119]. In this scenario, Sr can be loaded into microparticles to control the spatial and temporal release through the biodegradation of the microparticles. In addition, the functionalization of the material surface with Sr-doped microparticles may be performed to integrate multiple functions into one design.
Wei et al. developed microparticles made of a copolymer consisting of PLLA and poly(ethyl glycol) (PEG) blocks containing both vancomycin and Sr-doped apatite to provide antibacterial effect and osteo-promoting activity. Strong antibacterial effect against
Staphylococcus aureus and excellent cell compatibility with bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) derived from Sprague-Dawley rat were demonstrated. In addition, Sr enhanced the angiogenic and osteogenic expressions of MSCs, while the subcutaneous injection of the microspheres into the rabbit’s back induced neovascularization and ectopic osteogenesis. Moreover, the implantation of the microparticles in an infected rabbit femoral condyle defect (created with
Staphylococcus aureus infection) resulted in significant antibacterial activity in vivo and achievement of an efficient new bone deposition
[120].
Membrane scaffold composed of a matrix of ionically cross-linked chitosan and microparticles of PCL containing 5 wt% Sr salts demonstrated good biocompatible properties. When tested in vitro with MG-63 cells and hBMSCs, the absence of cytotoxicity, good cell adhesion and spreading, and higher ALP activity were recorded. When implanted in a subcutaneous model in rats, Sr-containing membrane showed a biocompatible behavior inducing less fibrosis with a thinner fibrous tissue
[121].
Wang et al. fabricated a near-infrared (NIR) light-triggered drug delivery system incorporating black phosphorus (BPs) and SrCl2 with the PLGA microspheres (BP-SrCl2/PLGA microspheres). In vitro evaluation demonstrated excellent cell viability and biodegradability and a good bone regeneration capability after implantation in femoral defects of Wistar rats. Good vascularization, cell integration, and migration into deeper scaffold layers were also observed
[122].
Also, the strategy of encapsulating Sr in a polymer has been exploited. Sr has been encapsulated in PLA microcapsules and maintained in an osteogenic medium for more than 121 days. The precipitation of biomimetic CaP on the surface and in the pores of microcapsules was obtained as proof of the potential of Sr to promote bone deposition
[123]. In addition, the evaluation of cell viability using MG-63 cells showed no evidence of the cytotoxic effect of the microcapsule extracts
[123].