Injectable light-activated silk and hyaluronic acid gel that breaks down naturally to help bone healing

A novel light-cured hydrogel, developed with a silk fibroin to hyaluronic acid ratio of 1:3, demonstrates superior mechanical performance and effective bone regeneration capabilities.

• The hydrogel can be directly injected into bone-augmented regions and cures quickly under UV light.
• It adheres well to irregular bone defect surfaces, creating a continuous barrier for bone graft materials.
• In animal models, the hydrogel showed an excellent barrier effect and maintained space for new bone formation.
• The optimal silk fibroin to hyaluronic acid ratio of 1:3 resulted in the lowest expansion rate and moderate degradation rate.
• New bone formation was significantly accelerated in the areas treated with the hydrogel compared to controls.

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