Collagen is a complex, large protein molecule that presents a challenge in delivering it to the skin due to its size and intricate structure. However, conventional collagen delivery methods are either invasive or may affect the protein's structural integrity. This study introduces a novel approach involving the encapsulation of collagen monomers within zwitterionic nanoliposomes, termed Lip-Cols, and the controlled formation of collagen fibrils through electric fields (EF) stimulation. The results reveal the self-assembly process of Lip-Cols through electroporation and a pH gradient change uniquely triggered by EF, leading to the alignment and aggregation of Lip-Cols on the electrode interface. Notably, Lip-Cols exhibit the capability to direct the orientation of collagen fibrils within human dermal fibroblasts. In conjunction with EF, Lip-Cols can deliver collagen into the dermal layer and increase the collagen amount in the skin. The findings provide novel insights into the directed formation of collagen fibrils via electrical stimulation and the potential of Lip-Cols as a non-invasive drug delivery system for anti-aging applications.
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/adhm.202400693 | DOI Listing |
Acta Biomater
January 2025
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States; School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States. Electronic address:
In this study we investigate the mechanics of type II collagen fibrils, an essential structural component in many load-bearing tissues including cartilage. Although type II collagen plays a crucial role in maintaining tissue integrity, the stress-stretch and failure response of type II collagen fibrils in tension is not established in the current mechanics literature. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted tensile tests on isolated collagen networks from articular cartilage and established a validated constitutive model for type II collagen fibril.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFLaryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol
February 2025
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the histological and ultrastructural features of the elastic cartilage at the tip of the vocal process in the arytenoid cartilage, which is essential for laryngeal biomechanics.
Methods: Five larynges, including the vocal folds and epiglottis, were examined using transmission electron microscopy. The elastic cartilage at the tip of the vocal process was compared to the epiglottic cartilage within the same larynx to elucidate structural differences.
J Transl Med
January 2025
Dental School, The University of Western Australia, 17 Monash Avenue, Nedlands, WA, 6009, Australia.
Background: Treatment of deep carious lesions poses significant challenges in dentistry, as complete lesion removal risks compromising pulp vitality, while selective removal often reduces the longevity of restorations. Herein, we propose a minimally invasive approach using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) for microscale removal of carious dentine. Concurrently, HIFU's antimicrobial effects against associated cariogenic biofilms and the corresponding thermal and biological impacts on surrounding tissues were investigated.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPolymers (Basel)
December 2024
Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
Spinal cord trauma leads to the destruction of the highly organized cytoarchitecture that carries information along the axis of the spinal column. Currently, there are no clinically accepted strategies that can help regenerate severed axons after spinal cord injury (SCI). Hydrogels are soft biomaterials with high water content that are widely used as scaffolds to interface with the central nervous system (CNS).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBioengineering (Basel)
December 2024
Meinig of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
The complex collagen network of the native meniscus and the gradient of the density and alignment of this network through the meniscal enthesis is essential for the proper mechanical function of these tissues. This architecture is difficult to recapitulate in tissue-engineered replacement strategies. Prenatally, the organization of the collagen fiber network is established and aggrecan content is minimal.
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