Use of graphene-based electroconductive scaffolds combined with electrical stimulation in critical bone defects.

• Grant number: 25/29061-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Biomedical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Guilherme Ferreira Caetano
• Grantee: Julia Michetti Theodoro
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria de Pós-Graduação e Pesquisa. Centro Universitário Hermínio Ometto (UNIARARAS). Araras , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Critical bone defects resulting from fractures, trauma, or tumors compromise the intrinsic self-healing capacity of bone tissue and represent a major challenge for regenerative therapies. Although bone grafting remains the most commonly used clinical approach, it is associated with important limitations, including donor site morbidity, limited availability, and risk of complications. In this context, tissue engineering has emerged as a promising strategy, aiming to develop three-dimensional biomaterials, known as scaffolds, to support the repair of critical-sized bone defects.Scaffolds based on polycaprolactone combined with graphene have demonstrated promising potential in bone tissue engineering due to their favorable mechanical properties and electrical conductivity. In addition to the structural support provided by scaffolds, the application of electrical stimulation is particularly relevant considering the piezoelectric nature of bone tissue. This approach aims to accelerate tissue repair and restore the electrical microenvironment, promoting the synthesis of growth factors, angiogenesis, and activation of key signaling pathways involved in osteogenesis and bone homeostasis, including canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways and the Ca²¿/CaM signaling pathway.Therefore, the objective of this project is to investigate the effects of electroconductive scaffolds containing different concentrations of graphene, combined with distinct intensities of low-level electrical stimulation, on experimental osteogenesis. The study will evaluate their impact on Wnt (canonical and non-canonical) and Ca²¿/CaM signaling pathways, as well as on inflammatory responses and bone remodeling, using both in vitro and in vivo models. (AU)