Development and characterization of a polymeric nanocomposite based on hydroxyethyl cellulose with montmorillonite and bioactive glass nanostructures for bone regeneration

Objective: In this study, a novel polymeric nanocomposite (HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO) based on hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), and montmorillonite and bioactive glass nanostructures (nMMT/nBV-nMgO) as nanoreinforcement was developed. Methods: The HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO was developed using an in situ polymerization method followed by freeze-drying for bone regeneration and underwent extensive physical, chemical, mechanical, and biological evaluations. Results: CCRD 2 2 results indicated an optimal formulation of [HEC] = 1.50 w w −1 and [nMMT/nBV-nMgO] = 0.12 w w −1 , aiming to balance mechanical strength and bioactivity. The incorporation of nMMT/nBV-nMgO into the HEC matrix provided enhanced mechanical strength (Young's modulus of 72.524 MPa) with a maximum elongation of 10.09 % based on the actual curve. The HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO was non-toxic to OFCOL II cells, increased alkaline phosphatase enzymatic activity during in vitro osteogenic differentiation, and exhibited a stable biodegradation profile of 65.70 % with the release of Si 4+ , Al 2+ , F − , Mg 2+ , Ca 2+ , Na + , K + , and PO 4 3− ions. Conclusions: The HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO provides a novel approach to improve mechanical reinforcement and osteogenic activity without compromising its structure or biocompatibility, making it a potential application for bone regeneration. • HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO were produced using in situ polymerization/freeze-drying. • It was possible to observe property relation using correlation and clustering. • HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO exhibited high mechanical strength of 75.5 MPa. • High LDH and ALP enzymatic activity were observed in HEC@nMMT/nBV-nMgO. • Corona effect, ion release and biodegradability studies were carried out.