Journal of Translational Regenerative Medicine

Abstract Improvement following treatment does not, in itself, establish what has recovered. Pain relief, new matrix formation, and the restoration of tissue function represent distinct outcomes. In regenerative medicine, these distinctions inform the design of subsequent experiments, the interpretation of clinical trials, and patients’ expectations. Yet the term “regenerative” can obscure these differences when a therapeutic ambition is presented as an observed outcome.

Abstract Bone has an inherent ability to regenerate; however, this capacity is often insufficient in cases of large, critical-sized, or complex defects caused by trauma, tumor removal, infection, or degenerative diseases. Traditional methods, including autografts, allografts, and xenografts, are limited by donor site issues, immune rejection, infection risks, and poor integration with the host tissue. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) has become a promising alternative, using stem cells, scaffolds, and bioactive substances to create a biomimetic environment that promotes osteogenesis and tissue regeneration. This study provides a comprehensive review of current strategies in BTE, emphasizing cell- and growth factor–based approaches, scaffold design, and nanocomposite systems, while critically discussing the major challenges and future perspectives for advancing the development of effective, translatable therapies for bone regeneration. Scaffolds provide a temporary three-dimensional extracellular matrix, guiding cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation while gradually degrading as new tissue forms. A wide range of materials, including natural and synthetic polymers, bioceramics, and bioactive glasses, has been explored. The integration of nanocomposites with bioactive fillers, such as nano-hydroxyapatite and graphene oxide, further enhances mechanical strength, osteoconductivity, and cellular interactions. Despite these advances, critical challenges remain, including achieving adequate vascularization, matching native bone mechanical properties, ensuring stable host integration, and mitigating inflammatory responses associated with polymer degradation.

Abstract Background: Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, is a major manifestation of cardiovascular disease and a leading cause of death. Characterizing the pathophysiological consequences of MI in an appropriate animal model is essential for translational research. Therefore, this study investigated changes in clinical signs, arterial blood gases, electrolyte concentrations, and acid–base parameters 24 hours after experimentally induced MI in sheep to further characterize this large-animal model for translational research.
Methods: Six healthy male sheep were included in this experimental study. After confirmation of health status, myocardial infarction (MI) was induced through left lateral thoracotomy and ligation of a lateral branch of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery. Clinical cardiovascular, respiratory, and general findings were recorded and scored, and arterial blood was collected from the auricular artery for blood gas and electrolyte analysis before surgery and 24 hours after MI induction.
Results: Compared with baseline, heart rate and respiratory rate increased significantly 24 hours after MI induction. Significant changes were also observed in heart rhythm, heartbeat intensity, heart and respiratory sounds, mucous membrane appearance, appetite, and general physical condition. Tachycardia, tachypnea, reduced heartbeat intensity, irregular cardiac rhythm, additional heart sounds, predominantly crackles on respiratory auscultation, mucosal hyperemia, reduced appetite, and depressed or withdrawn behavior were observed. Arterial blood analysis showed significant decreases in PO2, SatO2, base excess (BE), and K+, as well as significant increases in PCO2, Na+, Cl-, and anion gap.
Conclusion: Experimental MI in sheep is associated with significant cardiopulmonary and biochemical changes 24 hours after induction. The reduced BE and increased anion gap indicate a shift toward increased metabolic acid burden, accompanied by a significant rise in arterial PCO2. Since arterial pH remained unchanged, these findings should not be interpreted as overt mixed metabolic and respiratory acidemia.

Abstract Background: Selective laser melting (SLM) technology is an important additive manufacturing method for producing various components, including dental implants, spinal cages, and hip joint components, without the need for conventional molds. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of fabricating a Ti-6Al-4V spinal cage using the SLM method.
Methods: In this study, a spinal cage made of Ti-6Al-4V alloy was designed and fabricated using an SLM machine with a 300 W fiber laser. Dimensional measurements, surface and microstructural analyses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy, and hardness testing using the Vickers method were performed to evaluate the fabricated sample.
Results: The results revealed no observable porosity or cavities within the examined regions, while a characteristic layered structure associated with the SLM process was observed. The measured hardness values ranged from 339 to 344 HV, indicating relatively uniform hardness within the examined regions.
Conclusion: Overall, the findings demonstrate the feasibility of SLM for manufacturing a Ti-6Al-4V spinal cage, highlighting its potential for producing geometrically complex biomedical components.