Rubidium-containing mesoporous bioactive glass scaffolds support angiogenesis, osteogenesis and antibacterial activity.

In this study, rubidium-containing mesoporous bioglass (Rb-MBG) scaffolds were formed with the investigation of the influence of Rb addition on angiogenic and osteogenic differentiation abilities of hBMSC. The phase composition, microstructure, pore size distribution, ion release, biological activity, drug loading rate, and release rate of Rb-MBG were characterized. The proliferation and differentiation of hBMSC, the markers of bone formation (ALP, COL-1) and angiogenesis (VEGF, HIF-1α), and wnt/β-catenin related-signaling pathway gene were studied by cell culture. Rb-MBG loaded with antibacterial agents enoxacin (ENX), coliforms and Staphylococcus aureus were cultured together to study the antibacterial effects. The results indicate that the samples have a 350-550 μm large pore structure and 4.5-5.5 nm mesoporous size. Adding Rb can increase the activity of ALP, the secretion of VEGF and COLI, and the expression of HIF-1α of hBMSCs. Rb containing MBG is likely to enhance the proliferation and differentiation of hBMSCs through the influence of Wnt/ß-catenin signal path. Rb-MBG scaffold can load effectively and release Rb ions and ENX continuously to damage the bacterial cell membrane with the synergistic effect, and therefore achieve antibacterial results. In conclusion, adding Rb to MBG supports angiogenesis and osteogenesis of hBMSCs, as well as antibacterial activity.