Injectable Gelatin-Farsi Gum Hydrogels Functionalized With Hydroxyapatite for Biomimetic Oral Bone Regeneration.

OBJECTIVE: Bone repair requires injectable biomaterials that solidify in situ, resist infection, and provide osteoconductive reinforcement. However, it remains unknown whether a photo-crosslinkable hydrogel can combine silver nanoparticle functionality with hydroxyapatite-driven mechanical support for mandibular regeneration. METHODS: An injectable hydrogel was synthesized from gelatin methacrylate and methacrylated Farsi gum, functionalized with silver nanoparticles and hydroxyapatite (0%, 5%, and 10% w/w). Chemistry and phase integration were verified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance; swelling, degradation, porosity, and compression (including cyclic loading) were assessed at 5 and 12 weeks using radiography and histology; and rat mandibular healing was assessed at 5 and 12 weeks by radiography and histology. RESULTS: Spectroscopic and diffraction analyses confirmed incorporation of all components. All formulations showed controlled swelling/degradation with porous architectures. Hydroxyapatite increased compressive performance, with 10% w/w yielding the highest strength and elastic recovery under repeated compression. In rat mandibles, the 10% hydroxyapatite hydrogel supported bone regeneration on radiographic and histologic assessment at Weeks 5 and 12. CONCLUSIONS: These data show a single injectable platform that combines antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory functions with osteoconductive support, paving the way for minimally invasive craniofacial and orthopedic bone repair.