Preparation and Characterization of Novel Hydroxyapatite/Montmorillonite/Gelatin-Based Composites with Bone Remineralizing Potential

Abstract

Bone wear caused by injury or deterioration due to age leads to the use of autologous and allogeneic implants that are sometimes rejected by the body. Currently, work is being carried out on the development of composites that induce bone repair. In this study, composites with montmorillonite clay (MMT), hydroxyapatite (HAp), and gelatin were prepared. Initially, various ratios of HAp/MMT composites (1:1, 2:1, and 1:2) were examined, and the 2:1 ratio provided a better biological response. Finally, the HAp/MMT/Gel ternary mixtures were prepared using different percentages of gelatin: 10, 50, and 90% and maintaining the 2:1 HAp/MMT ratio. All materials were assayed in a biomineralization proof using simulated biological fluids. In the HAp/MMT/Gel diffraction pattern, the peaks associated with MMT and HAp are preserved at 20 and 32° in 2θ, respectively; the addition of gelatin promotes structural changes. Biocompatibility studies show that there are no morphological changes in the platelets since it does not exceed 5 μm of pseudopodia, which suggests that there is no rejection of the material. On the other hand, the biomineralization study, followed by SEM and FTIR characterization, showed the generation of apatite and demonstrated its potential application in bone tissue regeneration.