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Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Membranes Accelerate Active Osteogenesis in Bone Defects: Potential of Guided Bone Regeneration Membranes.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are potentially important biomaterials because of their chemical, physical, and biological properties. Our research indicates that CNTs exhibit high compatibility with bone tissue. The guided bone regeneration (GBR) technique is commonly applied to reconstruct alveolar bone and treat peri-implant bone defects. In GBR, bone defects are covered with a barrier membrane to prevent the entry of nonosteogenic cells such as epithelial cells and fibroblasts. The barrier membrane also maintains a space for new bone formation. However, the mechanical and biological properties of materials previously used in clinical practice sometimes delayed bone regeneration. In this study, we developed a CNT-based membrane for GBR exhibiting high strength to provide a space for bone formation and provide cellular shielding to induce osteogenesis. The CNT membrane was made via the dispersion of single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) in hyaluronic acid solution followed by filtration. The CNT membrane assumed a nanostructure surface due to the bundled SWCNTs and exhibited high strength and hydrophilicity after oxidation. In addition, the membrane promoted the proliferation of osteoblasts but not nonosteogenic cells. CNT membranes were used to cover experimental bone defects made in rat calvaria. At 8 weeks after surgery, more extensive bone formation was observed in membrane-covered defects compared with bone defects not covered with membrane. Almost no diffusion of CNTs was observed around the membrane. These results indicate that the CNT membrane has adequate strength, stability, and surface characteristics for osteoblasts, and its shielding properties promote bone formation. Demonstration of the safety and osteogenic potential of the CNT membranes through further animal studies should facilitate their clinical application in GBR.