Novel hybrid composites based on double-decker silsesquioxanes functionalized by methacrylate derivatives and polyvinyl alcohol as potential materials utilized in biomedical applications

Abstract

The use of diverse biomaterials for regenerative medicine is constantly evolving. Therefore, looking for easy-to-scale-up materials in terms of preparation, less complex composition, and featuring structural and chemical stability seems justified. In this work, we report the preparation of double-decker silsesquioxane-based (DDSQ-based) composites, which, according to our best knowledge, have never been used as biomaterials. A family of methacrylate-substituted DDSQs was obtained starting from the previously reported hydroxyalkyl double-decker silsesquioxanes. In the resulting hybrids, methacrylate groups are attached to each other's lateral silicon atoms of DDSQ in trans positions, providing an excellent geometry for forming thin layers. In contrast to pure organic methacrylates, the covalent bonding of methacrylate derivatives to inorganic silsesquioxane core improves mechanics, cell adhesion, and migration properties. Furthermore, to increase the hydrophilicity of the resulting DDSQ-based hybrids, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was added. The entire system forms an easy-to-obtain two-component (DDSQ-PVA) composite, which was subjected without any upgrading additives to biological tests later in the research. The resulting biomaterials fulfill the requirements for potential medical applications. Human fibroblasts growing on prepared hybrid composites are characterized by proper spindle-shaped morphology, proliferation, and activation status similar to control conditions (cells cultured on PVA), as well as increased adhesion and migration abilities. The obtained results suggest that the prepared biomaterials may be used in regenerative medicine in the future.

Keywords: Double-decker silsesquioxane (DDSQ); Fibroblasts; Hybrid composite; Methacrylate derivatives; Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA); Tissue regeneration.