Self-powered pulsed direct current stimulation system for enhancing osteogenesis in MC3T3-E1

Highlights: • A shape-memory piezoelectric nanogenerator (sm-PENG) integrated with fixation splint was proposed with good flexibility. • The sm-PENG is fabricated by thermo forming technology. This novel structure can better meet the requirement of therapy. • The effect of self-powered pulsed direct current stimulation can enhance osteogenesis was studied for the first time. Promoting the differentiation of osteoblasts is critical to maintain bone homeostasis for treatment osteoporosis and fracture healing. For these orthopedic diseases, a portable, highly patient compliance therapy device remains a great challenge. Here, we proposed a biomechanical-energy-driven shape memory piezoelectric nanogenerator (sm-PENG) that integrated with fixation splint to promote osteogenic differentiation. The pulsed direct current (DC) generated from the sm-PENG effectively promote MC3T3-E1 preosteoblast cell proliferation, orientation and increase intracellular calcium ion. At the same time, the ALP activity of cells is also improved by pulsed-DC under long-term culture conditions. Ultimately, increasing calcium deposition, extracellular matrix mineralization and osteogenesis. Our work demonstrates the potential of sm-PENG as a power source for pulsed-DC stimulation of bone repair, and shows great prospect self-powered and portable electronic medical device.