Hierarchical intrafibrillar mineralization with EGaIn nanocapsules through a one-step collagen self-assembly approach†

Abstract

Inspired by nature, various engineered mineralized collagen composites have been successfully synthesized through biomimetic processes, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of natural biomineralization. Due to its low toxicity, EGaIn liquid metal has garnered attention in a wide range of emerging areas and is increasingly being studied at the frontiers. Collagen fibrils serve as templates for the creation of modern models of intrafibrillar biomineralization mechanisms. In order to create a potent osteoinductive biomimetic, this study looked at the collagen-EGaIn matrix adoption in intrafibrillar biomineralization of collagen matrix constructs. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that intrafibrillar mineralization of PEG-EGaIn-Col-Ap matrices was achieved via a one-step approach, where collagen fibrils served as a templating matrix, and as a surfactant. The result showed that PEG-EGaIn nanocapsules with collagen microfibrils formed an efficient matrix for the growth of acicular apatite. Electron microscopy and characterization analyses revealed that the presence of ethanol significantly enhanced the infiltration of mineral nucleation precursors into the interior spaces of collagen fibrils, which facilitated hierarchical intrafibrillar mineralization. The integration of novel materials holds promise for enhancing the osteogenic properties of these biomaterials, ultimately contributing to improved orthopedic treatments.