A resorbable 3D-printed GelMA/alginate membrane with 0-60% hydroxyapatite was engineered with a porous bone-facing side and a dense fibroblast-blocking side. The 20% HA formulation provided the best balance of mechanics, barrier function and cell-based osteogenic indicators. Evidence remains materials- and cell-based, not animal or clinical implantation.
Key findings
- HA improved filament alignment, wettability, strength and structural stability. Porous and dense faces supported bone-side integration and fibroblast exclusion, respectively, with GelMA/Alg20HA showing the best overall balance.
Why this matters globally
Shape-customizable, resorbable membranes address a global maxillofacial need and may reduce reliance on permanent barriers and removal procedures.
Thai researcher contribution
Prince of Songkla University integrated oral surgery, materials engineering, 3D printing and cell biology in a prototype device.
Limitations to consider
No animal implantation, infection, vascularization, oral loading or in-vivo degradation was tested. Some assays used murine lines, and ALP does not equal functional bone. HA may alter brittleness and scale-up reproducibility.