Chemists from Tomsk State University (TSU), in collaboration with Iranian colleagues, have created a new biomaterial for treating complex cases of osteoporosis. The development is a multi-layered structure that not only replaces damaged areas of bone but also gradually releases medication, preventing further tissue destruction. The project is supported by a grant from the Russian Science Foundation (RSF).
The main component is zoledronic acid, which is effective for osteoporosis but toxic in high doses. To avoid side effects, scientists used cucurbituril supramolecules—unique "containers" that hold the acid and release it gradually. These molecules are applied to bioglass, which acts as an accumulator, and then placed on a polymer scaffold (frame) printed on a 3D printer.
The main active ingredient in our case is zoledronic acid. Like all acids, it is toxic in high concentrations. Our goal is, firstly, to deliver it to the right place, and secondly, to ensure that it is released gradually and in the dose that will not harm the body but will inhibit the further development of osteoporosis. For this, we use a biological container – cucurbituril supramolecules, which were previously obtained at the Department of Natural Compounds of Pharmaceutical and Medical Chemistry of the TSU Faculty of Chemistry.
The final stage is the creation of an implant that not only fills the bone defect but also stimulates the growth of new cells (osteoblasts). Testing on cell cultures helps optimize the properties of the material. The project is scheduled to run until 2026, and its results may open up new opportunities in regenerative medicine.
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