Addressing peri-implantitis and improving osteointegration: A study on the bioactive properties of a copper ion-releasing composite for implant materials

Carbon fiber-reinforced polyether ether ketone (CFR-PEEK) has recently emerged as an innovative material for bone and tooth implants, although its bioinertness has limited its widespread clinical application. In this study, we fabricated a multifunctional composite (CP-S5-PDA-Cu) by incorporating copper ions into CFR-PEEK and leveraging the porous structure of the sulfonated surface and the ion-chelating effect of polydopamine (PDA), known for its antibacterial, osteogenic, and angiogenic properties. The surface characteristics of the implant were comprehensively investigated, as well as its in vitro and in vivo biological properties. Our results demonstrated that the coating on the material enhanced its hydrophilicity and allowed the sustained release of copper. This promoted the proliferation of rBMSCs and HUVECs on the sample's surface and facilitated their differentiation into osteogenic and angiogenic lineages. Furthermore, the composite material displayed potent bactericidal activity against P. gingivalis, a bacterium associated with periodontal disease. In vivo studies validated the material's excellent osteointegration effects. These findings provide an experimental basis for addressing peri-implantitis and related conditions and offer new possibilities for selecting implant materials.