Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid hydrogel stabilized by multivalent cross-linking domains. The hydrogel combines inorganic nanoparticles along with an organic polymer network. The resulting material has reinforced mechanical properties and significant mineralization, and affords sustained long-term release of ions. Furthermore, ions released from the hydrogel can enhance cell spreading and promote the osteogenic differentiation of implanted cells. These promising results indicates that the provided compositions and methods are particularly appealing for bone regenerative applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hybrid hydrogel stabilized by multivalent cross-linking domains. The hydrogel combines inorganic nanoparticles along with an organic polymer network. The resulting material has reinforced mechanical properties and significant mineralization, and affords sustained long-term release of ions. Furthermore, ions released from the hydrogel can enhance cell spreading and promote the osteogenic differentiation of implanted cells. These promising results indicates that the provided compositions and methods are particularly appealing for bone regenerative applications.

Abstract: Super tough poly (lactic acid) (PLA)-based blends showing non break impact behavior have been developed. The blend contains a PLA resin, (b) a thermoplastic elastomeric block copolymer, and (c) a functionalized polyolefin copolymer. The blend is used as matrix to incorporate one or more additives, such as fillers (e.g., natural fibers and/or mineral fillers), nucleating agents, and/or chain extenders to form composites. In some embodiments, the blend is the continuous phase and the one or more additives are the dispersed phase. The composites exhibit improved impact strength and heat distortion temperature compared to neat or virgin PLA. For example, in some embodiments, the impact strength of the composite is from about 60 J/m to about 140 J/m and/or the HDT of the composite ranges from about 60 to about 115° C.