Graphdiyne-modified TiO2 nanofibers with osteoinductive and enhanced photocatalytic antibacterial activities to prevent implant infection

TLDR

Titanium implants are widely used in bone tissue engineering, yet implant‑associated infections pose a serious risk, and although TiO2 can generate reactive oxygen species, electron–hole recombination limits its antibacterial efficacy. The study introduces a graphdiyne‑modified TiO2 nanofiber designed to enhance photocatalytic antibacterial activity and extend its efficacy against implant infections. The composite incorporates graphdiyne into TiO2 nanofibers, improving charge separation and ROS production under light irradiation. The GDY‑modified TiO2 nanofibers show superior biocompatibility and osteoinductive properties, promoting cell adhesion, differentiation, and bone regeneration while effectively combating drug‑resistant bacterial infections.

Abstract

Titanium implants have been widely used in bone tissue engineering for decades. However, orthopedic implant-associated infections increase the risk of implant failure and even lead to amputation in severe cases. Although TiO2 has photocatalytic activity to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), the recombination of generated electrons and holes limits its antibacterial ability. Here, we describe a graphdiyne (GDY) composite TiO2 nanofiber that combats implant infections through enhanced photocatalysis and prolonged antibacterial ability. In addition, GDY-modified TiO2 nanofibers exert superior biocompatibility and osteoinductive abilities for cell adhesion and differentiation, thus contributing to the bone tissue regeneration process in drug-resistant bacteria-induced implant infection.