Optimization of Polydimethylsiloxane-Modified Composite Synthesis and Its Impact on Collagen Interactions: Perspectives for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

This research explores how silica composites modified with polydimethylsiloxane interact with collagen, aiming to enhance their application in the biomedical field. By adjusting the amount of polydimethylsiloxane in these composites, we evaluated their capacity to bind with collagen, an essential feature for biomaterials used in tissue engineering and drug delivery. Our findings reveal that incorporating polydimethylsiloxane into silica composites significantly boosts collagen attachment, indicating strong binding interactions. Notably, the collagen adhered to the composites maintains its natural structure, ensuring its functionality and compatibility with living tissues. This aspect is critical for biomaterials that support cell growth and regeneration in tissue scaffolds. Additionally, this study investigates how the viscosity of polydimethylsiloxane influences collagen binding, offering insights into the tailoring of composite properties for better biological performance. This work highlights the potential of polydimethylsiloxane-modified silica composites in creating innovative biomaterials for regenerative medicine and targeted therapeutic delivery.