Orientador: Eliana Aparecida de Resende Duek / Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Engenharia Mecanica / Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-10T00:47:14Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Moura_LucasAlves_M.pdf: 3634046 bytes, checksum: 536a898e97f786f07e4ccf738d9d67e5 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2007 / Resumo: A regeneração tecidual guiada (RTG) é uma técnica utilizada na Periodontia para permitir a neoformação de um novo aparato de inserção periodontal do dente (osso alveolar, ligamento periodontal e cemento). Na Periodontia, a utilização de polímeros biorreabsorvíveis vem ganhando confiabilidade e importância devido a não necessidade de uma segunda intervenção cirúrgica para remover a membrana, porém poucas membranas atendem a todos os critérios da RTG, que são biocompatibilidade, exclusão celular, manutenção do espaço a ser regenerado, integração à atividade tecidual, facilidade de utilização e atividade biológica. Um polímero biorreabsorvível muito estudado é o poli (L-ácido láctico) (PLLA), porém ele é polímero semicristalino muito rígido e com longo período de degradação, contudo ao se adicionar em sua composição um plastificante, o tri-etil-citrato, a membrana resultante seria mais flexível, microporosa e teria seu tempo de degradação reduzido. Esta pesquisa avaliou, através de estudo in vivo, a resposta inflamatória e a manutenção de um espaço vital para a regeneração óssea sob membranas de PLLA/tri-etil-citrato, em três diferentes proporções polímero/plastificante, implantadas na calota craniana de coelhos, analisando, assim, a capacidade destas membranas em se adaptar aos critérios da RTG periodontal. Paralelamente ao estudo in vivo, foram realizados estudos da degradação in vitro, com ensaios mecânicos de tração, de microscopia eletrônica de varredura e de calorimetria diferencial de varredura (DSC). Notou-se que as membranas de concentração PLLA/tri-etil-citrato de 85/15 apresentaram características mais adequadas para a RTG periodontal tanto no estudo in vivo quanto no in vitro / Abstract: Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a technique used in the periodontal practice to allow the neoformation of a new apparatus of teeth periodontal attachment (alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and cementum). In Periodontology, the use of bioresorbable polymers is gaining trustworthiness and importance due the non required second surgical intervention to remove the membrane, however few membranes fit in all GTR criteria, which are biocompatibility, cellular exclusion, space maintainer, integration to tissue activity, easy usage and biological activity. A bioresorbable polymer very studied is poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), however it is a very rigid semicrystalline polymer and with a long degradation period, but by adding in its composition a plasticizer, the tri-ethyl-citrate, the resultant membrane would be more flexible, microporous and would have its degradation time reduced. This research evaluated, through in vivo study, the inflammatory response and the maintenance of a vital space for bone regeneration under PLLA/tri-ethyl-citrate membranes, in three different polymer/plasticizer proportions, implanted in rabbits calvarial bone, analyzing, thus, the capacity of these membranes in adapting to the criteria of periodontal GTR. Simultaneously to this study, it had been carried out studies of in vitro degradation, with mechanical testing, scanning electronic microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). It was observed, that the highest concentration membranes PLLA/tri-ethyl-citrate (85/15) showed themselves more adequate characteristics for the periodontal GTR on in vivo study as well on in vitro / Mestrado / Materiais e Processos de Fabricação / Mestre em Engenharia Mecânica

Orientador: Eliana Aparecida de Rezende Duek / Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Faculdade de Engenharia Mecanica / Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-14T11:38:37Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Monteiro_AdrianaCristinaMottadeMenezes_D.pdf: 5297587 bytes, checksum: 9519d7cb25184a92ad96f65a3461d54a (MD5) Previous issue date: 2007 / Resumo: Dispositivos bioreabsorvíveis têm sido intensivamente estudados para aplicações em ortopedia e traumatologia, no reparo de fraturas ósseas provenientes principalmente de traumas. O poli (L-co-D, L ácido láctico), PLDLA, na relação 70:30 referentes aos monômeros L e D, L ácido láctico, respectivamente é um copolímero utilizado na fixação de fraturas nas regiões bucomaxilo e crânio. Neste trabalho o PLDLA foi sintetizado pela polimerização em massa dos monômeros cíclicos do L-ácido lático e do D, L ácido lático, utilizando como catalisador o Sn (Oct)2, sendo que os monômeros juntamente com o catalisador foram adicionados a uma ampola de vidro selada e imersa num banho de óleo a 130 oC por 72 horas. Obteve-se material com alta massa molar (105 g/mol) o qual foi caracterizado por Ressonância magnética de próton e carbono treze (RMN de 1H e 13C), Espectroscopia na região do infravermelho (FTIR), Cromatografia de permeação em gel (GPC), Calorimetria exploratória diferencial (DSC) e Análise termogravimétrica (TGA). O PLDLA foi processado por injeção obtendo-se placas e parafusos, os quais foram submetidos a testes mecânicos de flexão, GPC e Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (Mev), além do estudo da degradação in vitro, que demonstrou que o copolímero retém 80 % de suas propriedades mecânicas por 4 meses e do estudo in vivo, através do implante do sistema placa-parafuso em tíbias de coelhos, sendo verificado o crescimento de tecido ósseo e a ausência de reações inflamatórias no período estudado( três meses). / Abstract: The applications of bioreabsorbable polymers as temporary prostheses have been highly used in medical procedures related to fracture. Among the bioreabsorbable polymers the poly(Lco- D, L lactic acid), PLDLA, in the 70:30 rate has been studied to obtain plates and screws to recuperate traumas in the cranium and maxilla facial allowing an adaptation of devices to implant local during the surgery. In this work PLDLA was synthesized by mass polymerization of the cyclical monomers as L-lactic acid and D, L lactic acid, using Sn(Oct)2 as catalyst Polymerization were carried out in vacuum sealed, glass ampouls, it was immersed in an oil bath at 1300C, for 72 hours. It was obtained material with high molar mass (around 105 g/mol) which was characterized by: Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy ( 1H RMN and 13C RMN) , Gel permeation chromatography( GPC) , FTIR , Dynamical scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). PLDLA was injection molding process obtained screws plates which evaluated by mechanical tests flexural, GPC and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in vitro study of the plates PLDLA maintained 80% of this strength for 4 months. An in vivo study performed in rabbits tibias showed there was formation osseous tissue and no signs of inflammation tissue were seen ( period three months). / Doutorado / Materiais e Processos de Fabricação / Doutor em Engenharia Mecânica

<p> Cell encapsulation aims at the delivery of a therapeutic protein to a patient from transplanted cells. Conventional approaches involve immune-isolating cell lines that have been genetically modified to express a therapeutic protein, in alginate-based microcapsules. The long-term success of this approach hinges on the structural stability of the microcapsules, as well as their ability to maintain an environment suitable for the long-term survival of encapsulated cells. The most commonly studied type of microcapsule is the alginate-poly-Llysine-alginate (APA) microcapsule. However, the main concern with AP A microcapsules is the Joss of structural integrity during long-term implantation due to the exchange of calcium ions with other physiological ions, as well as the loss of the polyelectrolyte overcoats. </p> <p> In order to increase the structural stability of the microcapsules, we developed and characterized a number of synthetic polyelectrolytes that undergo phase separation upon complexation, and which are capable of forming covalent cross-links. These reactive polyelectrolytes are designed to take the place of poly-L-lysine and the outer alginate layer. We also explored combining cross-linkable synthetic polyanions with sodium alginate to strengthen the Ca Alginate core, by forming a core cross-linked network extending throughout the microcapsules. The polyelectrolyte complexes, encapsulation processes and microcapsule properties were studied in detail using extensive characterization techniques, including collaborative work on cell viability and host-immune response. </p> <p> Overall, this thesis describes a novel approach and prom1smg materials for cell encapsulations that offer enhanced microcapsule resistance to chemical and mechanical stresses, while preserving the desired biocompatibility. These materials may ultimately be useful for clinical immunosuppressive therapies. </p> / Thesis / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

This research is the first systematic investigation of solid-state orientation as a novel method for controlling drug release from biodegradable polymers. The effect of various degrees of polymer orientation was studied in oriented Poly (L-lactic acid) (PLA) films containing curcumin and theophylline as model drugs. Additionally, direction specific drug release was studied from oriented PLA rods containing paracetamol. The films oriented to 2X uniaxial constant width (UCW) or 2X2Y biaxial draw ratio showed retardation of drug release, when their nematic structure was stabilised by the presence of crystalline theophylline. Contrarily, the same films when contained solid solution of curcumin, shrunk in the release medium and exhibited a release profile similar to the un-oriented films. All films oriented to the UCW draw ratio ≥ 3X contained α crystalline form of PLA and showed acceleration of drug release proportionate to the draw ratio. According to the proposed mechanism augmented formation of water filled channels in these films was responsible for faster drug release. Similarly, the paracetamol loaded PLA rods die-drawn to uniaxial draw ratios ≥ 3X exhibited enhancement of drug release. Importantly, the amount of drug released along the oriented chain axis was significantly larger than that in the perpendicular direction. Drug release from the die-drawn rods was accelerated by a greater degree than that observed from the oriented films. This can be correlated to the differences in their size, geometry and the crystalline form of PLA. In conclusion, the current study provided substantial evidence that solid-state orientation can offer a control over drug release from PLA.

A administração indiscriminada de antimicrobianos sistêmicos tem como principais efeitos indesejáveis a seleção antimicrobiana, hipersensibilidade, comprometimento gastrointestinal e toxicidade. A busca por uma alternativa à terapêutica antimicrobiana sistêmica em Odontologia através do uso de um material biodegradável de aplicação local pode apresentar inúmeras vantagens. As características estruturais, de citocompatibilidade e facilidade de fabricação do polímero sintético ácido poli-L-lactídeo (PLLA) permitem que este seja um carreador de fármacos como amoxicilina (AM), azitromicina (AZ), clindamicina (CL) ou metronidazol (ME) mantendo concentrações inibitórias constantes e por tempo prolongado, sendo capazes de prevenir a colonização dos principais patógenos orais. Objetivo: Avaliar e comparar o comportamento de filmes ou malhas de PLLA associados aos quatro antimicrobianos mais utilizados em Odontologia como uma alternativa local. Metodologia: 180 (N) discos poliméricos com 15 ou 6 mm de diâmetro foram preparados em associação a 20% do antimicrobiano amoxicilina, azitromicina, clindamicina ou metronidazol sendo classificados como grupo F (filme) e M (malha). Foram confeccionados segundo os métodos de deposição e eletrofiação (fibras) respectivamente. Todos os discos foram armazenados em solução tampão (pH 5 ou 7.4) e alíquotas foram coletadas e analisadas por cromatografia líquida de alta performace (HPLC) em 8, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144 e 168 horas. As espécimes foram pesadas após 3 e 6 meses de armazenamento nas soluções tampões para análise de degradação. Para a análise de citotoxicidade, os materiais foram cultivados com fibroblastos humanos por 24h, 48h e 72h e analisados por ensaio de MTT. A capacidade antimicrobiana dos discos foi determinada em cultura de P.gingivalis e S.pyogenes. Para o controle estrutural foram realizadas fotografias digitais e MEV dos espécimes controle, das interfaces (criofratura) e das espécimes degradadas. Resultados: A liberação farmacológica para os antimicrobianos na ordem pH levemente básico (7.4) e ácido (5.0) foi respectivamente: ME 70.03% (F) e 100% (M); 88,01% (F) e 19,4% (M). Para AM 38,73% (F) e 18,63% (M); 61,44% (F) e 47,93% (M). Para AZ 32,53% (F) e 82,85% (M); 46,78% (F) e 73,15% (M). Para CL 68,42% (F) e 81,10% (M); 76,47% (F) e 72,76% (M). A análise antimicrobiana demonstrou capacidade inibitória para S.pyogenes e P.gingivalis para todos os materiais testados, não havendo diferença significativa entre filme e malha dentro de cada grupo (p>0.05). A reação de citotoxicidade por MTT comprovou que os biomateriais testados são compatíveis com fibroblastos humanos e mais citocompatíveis que o controle PLLA, controle de vida e morte (p<0.05). As malhas demonstraram favorecimento do crescimento celular principalmente em 24 e 48 horas. A MEV demonstra um filme com superfície rugosa e malha com fibras e poros mimetizando a matriz extracelular. Após criofratura a MEV da interface comprovou incorporação do fármaco ao filme e malha, exceto para o ME, com cristais externos ao polímero. Após a degradação, os filmes de amoxicilina apresentaram maior degradação que PLLA no pH 5.0 (p=0.007) e pH 7.4 (p=0.046). Já para as malhas a azitromicina apresentou maior degradação que PLLA no pH 7.4 (p=0.031). Conclusão: O PLLA é um polímero cuja associação aos antimicrobianos utilizados mostrou-se segura, citocompatível e promissora na liberação de doses inibitórias contra os microrganismos P.gingivalis e S. pyogenes. A liberação farmacológica foi influenciada pela característica química do fármaco, apresentação do polímero (filme e malha) e pH da solução de armazenamento. Este estudo comprovou ser possível através de uma terapêutica medicamentosa local controlar ou prevenir infecções localizadas, sem que seja necessário o fármaco sistêmico. / Indiscriminate administration of systemic antimicrobial has undesirable effects such as antimicrobial selection, hypersensitivity, gastrointestinal commitment and toxicity. For an alternative to systemic antimicrobial therapy in Dentistry, use a biodegradable material of local application can present numerous advantages. The structural characteristics, cytocompatibility and ease of fabrication of the synthetic polymer poly-L- lactide acid (PLLA) enable this to be a carrier biomaterial. When associated with antimicrobials as amoxicillin (AM), azithromycin (AZ), clindamycin (CL) or metronidazole (ME) it can maintain constant the inhibitory concentrations for a long time, being able to prevent colonization of the main oral pathogens. Objective: To evaluate and compare the behavior of PLLA associated with the most useful antimicrobials in Dentistry as an alternative for prevention and treatment of infections. Methodology: 180 (N) polymer discs with 15 or 6 mm diameter were prepared in association with the antimicrobial concentration of 20% amoxicillin, metronidazole, clindamycin or azithromycin being classified as Group F (film) and M (mesh). They were made using the methods of deposition and electrospinning (nanofibers) respectively. All discs were stored in buffer solutions (pH 5 or 7.4) and aliquots were collected and analyzed by high performance chromatography (HPLC) on 8, 24, 48, 72, 96, 120 , 144 and 168 hours. Cytotoxicity of human fibroblasts was tested after 24h, 48h and 72h by the MTT reaction. The antimicrobial capacity of the disks was determined against P. gingivalis and S. pyogenes cultures. The specimens were weighed after 3 and 6 months of storage for degradation analysis. Specimens were also carried out by digital photos for structural control. SEM was used to control interfaces (freeze-fracture) and degradation description. Results: The drug release for antimicrobials in order slightly basic pH (7.4) and acid ( 5.0 ) was respectively : ME 70.03 % (F ) and 100% (M ) ; 88.01 % (F) and 19.4 % ( F ) . For AM 38.73 % (F) and 18.63% ( F ) ; 61.44 % (F) and 47.93 % ( F ) . To AZ 32.53 % (F) and 82.85 % (F ) ; 46.78 % (F) and 73.15% ( F ) . Cl 68.42 % (F) and 81.10 % ( F ) ; 76.47 % (F) and 72.76 % ( F ) . Antimicrobial analysis showed inhibitory capacity against S. pyogenes and P. gingivalis for all tested polymers. ANOVA showed no difference between film and mesh within each group (p> 0.05). The MTT reaction demonstrated that the biomaterials tested are compatible with human fibroblasts (p < 0.05). The meshes have shown a tendency to cell growth especially in 24 to 48 hours. The SEM images showed a film with a rough surface and mesh of nanofibers and pores mimicking the extracellular matrix and also proved incorporation of the drug to the film and mesh after the freeze-fracture interface, except for ME that was external to the polymer crystals. Degradation showed differences among Amoxicillin-film and PLLA pH 5.0 (p = 0.007) and pH 7.4 (p = 0.046). As for the meshes differences occurred only between azithromycin and the PLLA pH 7.4 (p = 0.031). Conclusion: The PLLA is a polymer biomaterial whose association to antimicrobial is safe, biocompatible and promising. It can inhibit P. gingivalis and S. pyogenes microorganisms. The drug release was influenced by the chemical characteristics of the drug, polymer performance (mesh and film) and the pH of the storage solution. This study proved a local drug system therapy to control or prevent localized infections without systemic doses.

Este trabalho visou a produção de suportes para crescimento celular constituídos de compósitos de poli(L-lactídeo) (PLLA) e diversos tipos de fosfatos de cálcio (CaP). A hidroxiapatita deficiente em cálcio (HAD) e o fosfato octacálcico (OCP) em tamanhos submicrométricos foram sintetizados. Hidroxiapatita (HA) e o &#946;-fosfato tricálcico (&#946;-TCP) foram adquiridos da Sigma-Aldrich. Uma mistura de HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) também foi preparada. Para melhorar a dispersão da fase mineral em uma matriz polimérica de PLLA, utilizou-se cloreto de lauroíla para funcionalizar a superfície dos CaP. Os espectros de infravermelho e a análise termogravimétrica confirmaram a presença de laurato na superfície de partículas de CaP. As partículas de HA pura também foram funcionalizadas com cloreto de lauroíla para fins comparativos. Compósitos de PLLA/CaP-laurato foram fabricados utilizando a técnica de eletrofiação. A funcionalização da superfície do CaP com laurato resultou em uma melhoria significativa na dispersão de partículas de CaP na matriz polimérica, permitindo a inclusão de até 40% da fase mineral sem comprometer as propriedades mecânicas. Microscopia eletrônica de varredura (SEM) e microscopia eletrônica de transmissão (TEM) foram utilizadas para investigar a morfologia da fibra. A perda de massa e a liberação de cálcio dos suportes durante a degradação em uma solução salina tamponada com fosfato (PBS) foram medidas. HAD e OCP se mostraram ser mais solúveis do que HA e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). A bioatividade dos compósitos foi investigada por imersão das fibras em um fluido corporal simulado (SBF) a 37 °C e pH 7.4. Embora todos os suportes de PLLA/CaP-laurato foram capazes de formar uma camada de apatita em sua superfície após a exposição em SBF, os resultados demonstraram um aumento significativo na mineralização quando HAD, OCP e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) são a fase mineral no compósito em vez da HA. Além disso, malhas produzidas a partir das fibras eletrofiadas de PLLA/CaP-laurato, utilizadas como suporte para crescimento celular, favoreceram a adesão e proliferação de células de fibroblastos de camundongo (NIH-3T3) e células tronco mesenquimais de dentes decíduos humanos (SHED). Finalmente, suportes a partir das malhas PLLA/HAD-laurato e PLLA/OCP-laurato apresentaram melhor desempenho para acelerar a calcificação in vitro como resultado da osteoindução de células SHED e de células pré-osteoblásticas derivadas de calvária de rato (MC3T3-E1) se comparados aqueles contendo HA e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). Esses novos materiais são propostos como biocompósitos de rápida degradação de CaP, para serem utilizados em aplicações de regeneração óssea em ortodontia e ortopedia. / This work aimed at the generation of scaffolds for cellular growth constituted by poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and several types of calcium phosphate (CaP). Calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (HAD) and octacalcium phosphate (OCP) were synthesized in submicrometer sizes. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and &#946;-tricalcium phosphate (&#946;-TCP) were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. A mixture of HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) also was prepared. In order to improve the dispersion of the mineral phase in a PLLA polymeric matrix, lauroyl chloride was used to functionalize the surface of CaP. Infrared spectra and thermal gravimetric analysis confirmed the presence of laurate on the surface of CaP particles. Neat HA particles were also functionalized with lauryl chloride for comparative purposes. Composites of PLLA/CaP-laurate were fabricated by electrospinning method. The functionalization of CaP surfaces resulted in significant improvement of the dispersion of CaP particles into the polymeric matrix, allowing inclusion of up to 40% of mineral phase without compromising its mechanical properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were employed to investigate the morphology of the fibers. The mass loss and calcium release of the scaffolds during degradation in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were measured. HAD and OCP are more soluble than HA and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). The bioactivity of the composites was investigated by immersing the fibers in a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C and pH 7.4. Although all PLLA/CaP-laurate can form apatite precipitation on their surface after exposition to SBF, the results demonstrate a significant enhancement in the mineralization when HAD, OCP and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) are the mineral phase in the composite instead of HA. Furthermore, mats obtained from PLLA/CaP-laurate electrospun fibers favored the mouse fibroblast cells (NIH-3T3) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) attachment and proliferation. Finally, PLLA/HAD-laurate and PLLA/OCP-laurate meshes showed better performance in accelerate the calcium phosphate mineralization on its surface as a result of the in vitro osteoinduction of SHEDs and calvaria derived mouse preosteoblastic cells (MC3T3-E1) if compared of those containing HA and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). These new materials are proposed as fast degradation CaP biocomposites to be used in bone regeneration applications in orthodontics and orthopedics.

Made available in DSpace on 2017-07-21T14:13:03Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Daiane Cristine Mirante.pdf: 2726451 bytes, checksum: 032734e58cd5a2dc0e010068ceda3d38 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2015-02-27 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / The development of antimicrobial agents is one of the most important advances in the therapeutic area due to microbial resistance, causing problems to public health, with serious economic, social and political implications. Thus, this study aimed to the technological development of microparticles of biopolymer poly-L-lysine (PLL) and polymeric nanocapsules containing essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel uncoated or coated with PLL. The microparticles were obtained by the spray drying technique with a yield of 42.4%. The nanocapsules were prepared by interfacial deposition technique of a preformed polymer. The nanocapsules showed average nanometer diameter (160-200 nm), polydispersity index of less than 0.25 and negative zeta potential for nanocapsules poly(caprolactone) (PCL) (-39.8 mV) and positive for the nanocapsules of PLL (+17, 75 mV), indicating that there was an electrostatic adsorption interaction between PCL and PLL. An analytical method was developed and validated by UV-vis pectrophotometry in order to enable a reliable determination of encapsulation efficiency (EE). This method showed specificity, linearity, precision, detection and quantification satisfactory limits according to current recommendations. The EE was 99.86%. The antimicrobial activity of micro systems and nanocapsules was evaluated, containing PLL against the microorganisms, E. coli S. aureus, S. pyogenes, P. aeruginosa and C. albicans. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of the essential oil of M. alternifolia in the nanostructured system developed has been able to increase their antibacterial activity. The microparticles and nanocapsules, can, in the future, be promising antimicrobial agents, promoting the development of an effective therapeutic alternative and more effective at lower doses. / O desenvolvimento de agentes antimicrobianos representa um dos mais importantes avanços na área terapêutica, devido à resistência microbiana acarretar problemas para a saúde pública, com sérias implicações econômicas, sociais e políticas. Visto isso, este trabalho teve como objetivo o desenvolvimento tecnológico de micropartículas do biopolímero -poli-L-Lisina (PLL) e de nanocápsulas poliméricas contendo óleo essencial de Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel, revestidas ou não -PLL. As micropartículas foram obtidas pela técnica de secagem por aspersão com rendimento de 42,4 %. As nanocápsulas foram preparadas pela técnica de deposição interfacial de um polímero pré-formado. As nanocápsulas apresentaram diâmetro médio nanométrico (160-200 nm), índice de polidispersão inferior a 0,25 e potencial zeta negativo para as nanocápsulas de poli(-caprolactona) (PCL) (-39,8 mV) e positivo para as nanocápsulas de PLL (+17,75 mV), demonstrando que houve o processo de adsorção por interação eletrostática entre a PCL e a PLL. Foi desenvolvido e validado um método analítico por espectrofotometria de UV-Vis com a finalidade de permitir uma determinação confiável da eficiência de encapsulação (EE). Este método apresentou especificidade, linearidade, precisão, limites de detecção e quantificação satisfatórios de acordo com as recomendações vigentes. A EE foi de 99,86%. Foi avaliada a atividade antimicrobiana dos sistemas micro e nanoencapsulados contendo PLL contra os micro-organismos E. coli, S. aureus, S. pyogenes, P. aeruginosa e C.albicans. Os resultados demonstram que a incorporação do óleo essencial de M. alternifolia no sistema nanoestruturado desenvolvido foi capaz de aumentar a sua atividade antibacteriana. As micropartículas e as nanocápsulas, podem futuramente ser agentes antimicrobianos promissores, promovendo o desenvolvimento de uma alternativa terapêutica eficaz com doses menores e mais efetivas.

Este trabalho visou a produção de suportes para crescimento celular constituídos de compósitos de poli(L-lactídeo) (PLLA) e diversos tipos de fosfatos de cálcio (CaP). A hidroxiapatita deficiente em cálcio (HAD) e o fosfato octacálcico (OCP) em tamanhos submicrométricos foram sintetizados. Hidroxiapatita (HA) e o &#946;-fosfato tricálcico (&#946;-TCP) foram adquiridos da Sigma-Aldrich. Uma mistura de HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) também foi preparada. Para melhorar a dispersão da fase mineral em uma matriz polimérica de PLLA, utilizou-se cloreto de lauroíla para funcionalizar a superfície dos CaP. Os espectros de infravermelho e a análise termogravimétrica confirmaram a presença de laurato na superfície de partículas de CaP. As partículas de HA pura também foram funcionalizadas com cloreto de lauroíla para fins comparativos. Compósitos de PLLA/CaP-laurato foram fabricados utilizando a técnica de eletrofiação. A funcionalização da superfície do CaP com laurato resultou em uma melhoria significativa na dispersão de partículas de CaP na matriz polimérica, permitindo a inclusão de até 40% da fase mineral sem comprometer as propriedades mecânicas. Microscopia eletrônica de varredura (SEM) e microscopia eletrônica de transmissão (TEM) foram utilizadas para investigar a morfologia da fibra. A perda de massa e a liberação de cálcio dos suportes durante a degradação em uma solução salina tamponada com fosfato (PBS) foram medidas. HAD e OCP se mostraram ser mais solúveis do que HA e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). A bioatividade dos compósitos foi investigada por imersão das fibras em um fluido corporal simulado (SBF) a 37 °C e pH 7.4. Embora todos os suportes de PLLA/CaP-laurato foram capazes de formar uma camada de apatita em sua superfície após a exposição em SBF, os resultados demonstraram um aumento significativo na mineralização quando HAD, OCP e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) são a fase mineral no compósito em vez da HA. Além disso, malhas produzidas a partir das fibras eletrofiadas de PLLA/CaP-laurato, utilizadas como suporte para crescimento celular, favoreceram a adesão e proliferação de células de fibroblastos de camundongo (NIH-3T3) e células tronco mesenquimais de dentes decíduos humanos (SHED). Finalmente, suportes a partir das malhas PLLA/HAD-laurato e PLLA/OCP-laurato apresentaram melhor desempenho para acelerar a calcificação in vitro como resultado da osteoindução de células SHED e de células pré-osteoblásticas derivadas de calvária de rato (MC3T3-E1) se comparados aqueles contendo HA e HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). Esses novos materiais são propostos como biocompósitos de rápida degradação de CaP, para serem utilizados em aplicações de regeneração óssea em ortodontia e ortopedia. / This work aimed at the generation of scaffolds for cellular growth constituted by poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and several types of calcium phosphate (CaP). Calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (HAD) and octacalcium phosphate (OCP) were synthesized in submicrometer sizes. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and &#946;-tricalcium phosphate (&#946;-TCP) were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich. A mixture of HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) also was prepared. In order to improve the dispersion of the mineral phase in a PLLA polymeric matrix, lauroyl chloride was used to functionalize the surface of CaP. Infrared spectra and thermal gravimetric analysis confirmed the presence of laurate on the surface of CaP particles. Neat HA particles were also functionalized with lauryl chloride for comparative purposes. Composites of PLLA/CaP-laurate were fabricated by electrospinning method. The functionalization of CaP surfaces resulted in significant improvement of the dispersion of CaP particles into the polymeric matrix, allowing inclusion of up to 40% of mineral phase without compromising its mechanical properties. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were employed to investigate the morphology of the fibers. The mass loss and calcium release of the scaffolds during degradation in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were measured. HAD and OCP are more soluble than HA and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). The bioactivity of the composites was investigated by immersing the fibers in a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C and pH 7.4. Although all PLLA/CaP-laurate can form apatite precipitation on their surface after exposition to SBF, the results demonstrate a significant enhancement in the mineralization when HAD, OCP and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3) are the mineral phase in the composite instead of HA. Furthermore, mats obtained from PLLA/CaP-laurate electrospun fibers favored the mouse fibroblast cells (NIH-3T3) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) attachment and proliferation. Finally, PLLA/HAD-laurate and PLLA/OCP-laurate meshes showed better performance in accelerate the calcium phosphate mineralization on its surface as a result of the in vitro osteoinduction of SHEDs and calvaria derived mouse preosteoblastic cells (MC3T3-E1) if compared of those containing HA and HAD:&#946;-TCP (7:3). These new materials are proposed as fast degradation CaP biocomposites to be used in bone regeneration applications in orthodontics and orthopedics.

Metallic nanoparticles are unique materials for optical, electronic, catalytic, and sensing applications. Due to the vast flexibility in controlling the surface chemistry of these particles through functionalization there is a great deal of interest in using metallic nanoparticles as building blocks in the development of more complex nanostructures through the use of a 'bottom-up' approach. Using self assembly techniques, one can exploit spontaneous chemical interactions to build complex constructs on the nanometer scale. Towards this end, gold nanorods have been synthesized and modified with various polymers, inorganic oxides and organic ligands to establish principles for self-assembly of these unique nanomaterials. Gold nanorods are of great interest due to their strong optical absorption in the visible and near infrared regions, which can be tuned through material preparation and modification of the surrounding environment. This thesis focuses on investigating approaches for both irreversible and reversible self-assembly of gold nanorods. Techniques such as dynamic light scattering (DLS), ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and polarization modulation infrared reflection absorbance spectroscopy (PM-IRRAS) were used to characterize the colloidal particles and gold surfaces. A novel contribution of this work is the successful demonstration of end-to-end linking of gold nanorods in a rapid and reversible manner using a pH responsive polypeptide.

In this study, it is aimed to develop an injectable controlled release system of PCL and P(L,DL)LA microspheres loaded with TA and/or Ral for local treatment of rheumatoid arthritis which will avoid from systemic side effects of traditional administration and eliminate problems caused by direct local injections. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune disorder that most commonly causes inflammation and tissue damage in joints and tendon sheaths. Current strategies for the disease are mainly towards relieving symptoms and increasing mobility. The microsphere form drug delivery systems were developed to enhance the treatment success of rheumatic diseases by providing these agents alone or together for long terms without causing systemic or local site effects upon injection to the RA joints. Microspheres were prepared with s/o/w solvent evaporation technique and optimized to achieve a suitable size for joint application, to sustain the delivery of the drug(s), to provide required amount of the agent with feasible amount of microsphere. In order to manage these, microspheres prepared with different combinations of polymers and drugs were examined for particle size analysis, surface and structural characterizations, time related drug release properties, and drug loading capacities. In vitro cytotoxicity tests using 3T3 fibroblast cells were done to evaluate the biocompatibility of drug loaded PCL microspheres. The degradation of polymers were conducted and evaluated by GPC analysis. In PCL:TA microspheres, as polymer:drug ratio decreased (from 10:1 towards 10:4), namely as the drug partition increased, it was seen that encapsulation efficiency and loading percentages increased. Meanwhile, percent release of the drug decreased, indicating more prolonged release. Among all microspheres, PCL:TA 10:4 and PCL:Ral 10:2 were found to be the most appropriate for dual release in terms of release values (ca 21% and 0.09%, respectively), loadings (ca 27% and ca 13%, respectively) and mean particle size values (ca 100 &mu / m and ca 95 &mu / m, respectively). After release studies, microspheres preserved their sphericity. These selected polymer:drug groups also represented no cytotoxic effect. The microspheres for dual drug study (PCL:TA:Ral 10:4:2) released app. 55% of its TA and 0.29% of Ral at the end of 4 weeks. Drug loading capacities of these microspheres were found to be ca 14% for TA and 8% for Ral. Furthermore, with dual loading case, smallest mean particle size (68 &mu / m) could be obtained among all studied groups. P(L,DL)LA microspheres caused high viscosity problems during microsphere preparation steps and resulted in the slowest release, which was unfavorable for the aim of the study. To our knowledge there is no microsphere study reported with P(L,DL)LA in literature. The TA and Ral delivery systems with PCL and P(L,DL)LA were developed and studied for the first time in literature and they were optimized for RA treatment purposes. The potential of these systems, should be further tested in experimental animal models of RA.