Cell-instructive membrane biomaterial for non-union bone healing

Enhancing the healing of non-union bone fractures is a critical challenge in orthopaedic medicine, necessitating the development of advanced biomaterials. This study investigates the efficacy of P15 peptide-functionalised polyethylene terephthalate (PET) membranes in promoting osteogenic differentiation and bone regeneration. The PET membranes were treated to attach P15 peptides using oxygen plasma, NaOH, and EDC/NHS coupling, with successful functionalisation confirmed via contact angle measurements. Human osteoblast cells (hOBs) were then cultured on native, Collagen I-coated, and P15-treated membranes, and their interactions were analysed through immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy to assess integrin expression, focal adhesion formation, and cell morphology. Results demonstrated that P15-functionalised PET membranes indicate potential for good cell adhesion, integrin localisation, and focal adhesion formation, suggesting a conducive environment for osteogenic activity. These findings indicate that P15-functionalised PET membranes hold promise for enhancing bone regeneration in non-union fractures, supporting their potential application in clinical orthopaedic treatments.