| Abstract Scope |
We present the design and fabrication of a novel composite patch for tympanic membrane (TM) perforations, often caused by middle ear infections. The patch comprises gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and keratin methacryloyl (KerMA) hydrogels. Utilizing DLP 3D printing, we integrated conical microneedles into the GelMA-KerMA patches. Subsequently, we biofunctionalized the patches by coaxially coating them with PVA nanoparticles loaded with gentamicin (GEN) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) using the Electrohydrodynamic Atomization (EHDA) method. The fabricated nanoparticle-coated 3D-printed patches were assessed for their chemical, morphological, mechanical, swelling, and degradation properties and antibacterial testing. Furthermore, in vitro evaluations included analyses of GEN and FGF-2 release profiles, antimicrobial efficacy, and biocompatibility. Cell culture studies revealed biocompatibility of GelMA-KerMA patches with human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSC), supporting cell attachment and proliferation without cytotoxicity. These findings suggest that biofunctional 3D-printed GelMA-KerMA patches hold promise as a therapeutic approach for TM perforations. |