Opportunities and challenges for the development of polymer-based biomaterials and medical devices

Abstract

Biomaterials and medical devices are broadly used in the diagnosis, treatment, repair, replacement or enhancing functions of human tissues or organs. Although the living conditions of human beings have been steadily improved in most parts of the world, the incidence of major human's diseases is still rapidly growing mainly because of the growth and aging of population. The compound annual growth rate of biomaterials and medical devices is projected to maintain around 10% in the next 10 years; and the global market sale of biomaterials and medical devices is estimated to reach $400 billion in 2020. In particular, the annual consumption of polymeric biomaterials is tremendous, more than 8000 kilotons. The compound annual growth rate of polymeric biomaterials and medical devices will be up to 15-30%. As a result, it is critical to address some widespread concerns that are associated with the biosafety of the polymer-based biomaterials and medical devices. Our group has been actively worked in this direction for the past two decades. In this review, some key research results will be highlighted.

Keywords: anti-irradiation aging; antibacterial; ethylene oxide sterilization; plasticizer; polymer-based biomaterials.

Figure 1.

(a) Hierarchical surface consisting of a PEG antifouling bottom layer and a QAC bactericidal top layer, (b) the adhesion of platelets and mammalian cells on the samples, (c) representative confocal laser scanning microscopy images of the Staphylococcus aureus adhered on the samples. PBS suspension of the bacteria (10⁶ cells ml⁻¹) was dropped onto the surfaces of the samples. After incubating for 1 day, the samples were washed with PBS to remove the non-adherent bacteria, followed by dropping fresh culture medium onto the surfaces every 24 h for 7 days

Figure 2.

(a) Illustration of the DNase coating to cleave DNA and (b) bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation and cytotoxicity

Figure 3.

Illustration of the fluorocarbon liquid-infused wrinkling slippery surface to repel bacteria

Figure 4.

The chemical modification (left) and blending (right) principles

Figure 5.

Representative TPE medical devices

Figure 6.

(a) Synthesis of reactive anti-irradiation agent and (b) reactive extrusion graft polymerization of anti-irradiation agent

Figure 7.

High-power cyclotron resonant cavity (left) and irradiation sterilization center in WEGO HOLDING CO., LIMITED (right)