Hybrid-Aerogele als biomemetische 3D-Gerüststrukturen für regenerative Knochenkrebstherapie

Abstract

The treatment of malignant bone tumors and the restoration of bone damage following tumor resection remain significant clinical challenges. Addressing tumor-induced bone damage typically requires the implantation of biomimetic porous 3D materials with dual functionality: the local treatment of residual tumor cells and the subsequent restoration of bone tissue. There is an urgent need to develop dual-functional scaffold materials that fulfill the stringent requirements for both biological and tumor-therapeutic efficacy. Aerogels have emerged as promising biomaterials for targeted bone tissue regeneration due to their exceptional physical and microstructural properties, particularly their extensive po- rosity, pore interconnectivity, and high internal surface area. The primary objective of this project is to develop novel multi-functional 3D-printed composite aerogels as scaffold materials for bone tumor management. These aerogels are designed using surface-modified silk fibroin (SF) combined with functional nanoparticles to achieve dual functionality: high photothermal conversion for tumor ablation and osteogenic properties for bone regeneration. The design leverages surface modification, self-assembly, and ad- vanced 3D printing techniques. The unique self-assembly properties of surface-modified SF in solution, coupled with its hybridization with anisotropic nanomaterials (e.g., electrospun silica nanofibers, photothermally active nanoparticles/ agents such 2D nanosheets), enable the production of range of multifunctional composite aerogel scaffolds with interconnected and hierarchical porosity and biodegradability. Furthermore, the most promising materials undergo evaluation for their in vitro therapeutic efficacy and bone regeneration capabilities. By integrating 3D printing with innovative material concepts (e.g., composite aerogels), this project aims to address the critical clinical challenges of bone healing.