A 3D printable silica ink for 3D printing was obtained through sol-gel.
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Controlled mesoporosity by the addition of different calcium concentrations.
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These silica inks exhibited high printability, bioactivity and biocompatibility.
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Increased mesopore size enhanced the incorporation of large molecules.
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A pH-dependent control release was obtained between pH 2.5 and 7.5.
Abstract
Silica-based scaffolds are promising in Tissue Engineering by enabling personalized scaffolds, boosting exceptional bioactivity and osteogenic characteristics. Moreover, silica materials are highly tunable, allowing for controlled drug release to enhance tissue regeneration. In this study, we developed a 3D printable silica material with controlled mesoporosity, achieved through the sol-gel reaction of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) at mild temperatures with the addition of different calcium concentrations. The resultant silica inks exhibited high printability and shape fidelity, while maintaining bioactivity and biocompatibility. Notably, the increased mesopore size enhanced the incorporation and release of large molecules, using cytochrome C as a drug model. Due to the varying surface charge of silica depending on the pH, a pH-dependent control release was obtained between pH 2.5 and 7.5, with maximum release in acidic conditions. Therefore, silica with controlled mesoporosity could be 3D printed, acting as a pH stimuli responsive platform with therapeutic potential.
Graphical abstract
3D printable silica material with controlled mesoporosity can act as a pH stimuli responsive platform with therapeutic potential.
