Work

Nanoparticle Architecture Governing Antibacterial and Osteoinductive Responses in Bone-Integrating Implants

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) have emerged as leading candidates in biomedical applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties and dual functionality, combining potent bactericidal and osteoinductive effects. These bioactivities are intricately governed by structural parameters such as size, shape, crystallinity, and chemical composition, which collectively dictate their interactions with biological systems. These interactions affect key mechanisms including oxidative stress induction, membrane disruption, and modulation of cellular signaling pathways. Despite considerable progress, a comprehensive understanding of the structure property–activity-specific structural relationship in MNPs remains incomplete, hindering the rational design of optimized nanomaterials. This review critically examines recent advances in elucidating the bactericidal and osteoinductive mechanisms of MNPs, with a particular focus on the role of structural determinants. Furthermore, current challenges and future directions for tailoring nanoparticle architecture to enhance clinical performance are discussed. To address this, we conducted a systematic review of the literature published between 2005 and 2024 using Web and Web of Science direct and Scopus databases. Our analysis is structured around a structure →mechanism→outcome perspective, linking nanoparticle features to biological responses. Key insights include the following: (i) nanoparticles below ~20 nm generally enhance bacterial efficiency through enhanced membrane disruption; (ii) surface hydroxyl density above critical thresholds promotes osteogenic signaling; and (iii) safe concentration windows remain narrow, highlighting the importance of dose optimization. We conclude by discussing the translational challenges and future directions for tailoring nanoparticle architectures to advance clinical applications.

Source: Metals

DOI: 10.3390/met15091026

Authors: Juliana Gaviria, Veronica Gaviria, Kamilla V. R. A. Silva, Ana Alcudia, Eduardo Padrón-Hernández, Yadir Torres

Institutions: Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Universidad de Sevilla

Language: English

Topic: Nanoparticles: synthesis and applications

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137