Abstract
Ensuring human health safety necessitates rigorous biosafety evaluations of substances and materials, particularly in the context of in-vivo exposure. Biodegradable materials, known for their natural decomposition capabilities through biological mechanisms, may exhibit toxicological profiles differing from non-biodegradable substances. Prior to their application in medical devices such as stents and implants, it is imperative to conduct thorough testing to ascertain their safety. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the in-vivo biosafety of various biodegradable materials. The authors employ an integrative approach, combining in-vitro ion-tolerance assays with in-vivo microanalysis techniques. This dual methodology allows for a detailed evaluation of the materials' biocompatibility and potential toxicity, particularly focusing on nanomaterial-induced toxicity in neural tissues. These findings offer critical insights into the safe application of biodegradable biomedical materials, underpinning informed decision-making in their usage for medical applications.
TopMain Focus Of The Chapter
Healthcare innovation plays a pivotal role in transforming medical practices, shaping the future of medicine, and improving patient outcomes (Ofosu-Ampong et al., 2024; Revano & Garcia, 2021). It encompasses a broad range of advancements, from cutting-edge technologies and treatments to novel healthcare strategies and materials (Arayata et al., 2022; Cortez et al., 2022; Parel et al., 2022). These innovations are crucial for addressing current challenges in healthcare, enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical services, and reducing the overall burden of disease. By fostering a culture of research and development, healthcare innovation encourages the exploration of new ideas and solutions that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. This commitment to innovation not only accelerates the pace of medical advancements but also ensures that healthcare systems remain adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of patients and practitioners alike (Garcia et al., 2022; Kazi, 2024). In this context, understanding the interaction between biomedical materials and the human body becomes increasingly important, as it directly influences the development of safer, more effective medical devices and treatments.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Nanomaterials: Nanomaterials are materials with structures or properties at the nanoscale, typically having dimensions less than 100 nanometers. They often exhibit unique properties and are of interest in various scientific fields, including biomedicine.
Nanoengineering: Nanoengineering is a multidisciplinary field focused on manipulating and designing materials and structures at the nanoscale to create new properties and functions. It involves the precise control of nanomaterials for various applications.
Biodegradable Materials: Biodegradable materials are substances capable of breaking down or decomposing into harmless substances over time, often used in biomedical applications where the goal is for the material to be absorbed or eliminated by the body without causing harm.
Toxicity: Toxicity is the degree to which a substance can harm or damage living organisms. In the context of your research, it pertains to the potential harmful effects of nanomaterials or biodegradable materials on biological systems, such as cellular or tissue toxicity.
Ion Tolerance: Ion tolerance refers to the ability of materials or biological systems to withstand exposure to ions, which are charged particles. In your research, likely relates to criteria or measurements used to assess the effects of ions on materials' properties or performance.
In Vitro: “In vitro” is a Latin phrase that means “in glass.” In the context of research, it refers to experiments or processes conducted outside a living organism, typically in a laboratory setting, using isolated cells or tissues to study biological phenomena.
Biosafety: Biosafety refers to the assessment and management of potential risks associated with biological materials, such as biodegradable materials or nanomaterials, to ensure the safety of human health and the environment.