Síntese e caracterização físico-química e biológica de biofilmes de Poliestireno/Norbixina/Hidroxiapatita

Abstract

Polymeric biomaterials are among the materials most used in the medical field, the effectiveness of biomaterials is mainly related to their ability to interact with cells in the damaged tissue, aiming at healing. Polystyrene (PS) is a thermoplastic polymer, transparent, hard and brittle, but not iodegradable. The carotenoid norbixin (NBX) has shown anticancer and hypolipidemic action, as well as antioxidant activity. Hydroxyapatite bioceramic (HAP) is a non-toxic bioactive substance that causes little tissue reaction, presenting itself as an important resource for bone replacement. This research aims to analyze the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of PS/NBX/HAP biofilms synthesized in different proportions for application in the bone repair process. Thermal analysis revealed that the incorporation of NBX and HAP did not alter the thermal stability of biofilms. The samples took longer to swell in the Simulated Body Fluid solution than in water which represented a greater loss of mass in the simulated body fluid. Although biofilms have a hydrophilic character, the incorporation of NBX and HAP provided a decrease in hydrophilicity. Regarding pH and conductivity, biofilms were shown to be chemically stable and low electrical current conduction, which facilitates the process of cell proliferation. The toxicity test with Artemia salina showed that biofilms do not present toxicity, that is, they can be considered non-toxic.