Bone fractures represent a significant global public health challenge, particularly in aging populations. Despite extensive research, injectable systems that balance bioactivity with precise handling properties remain scarce. In this study, a novel triple-polymeric blend of methylcellulose, xanthan gum, and pullulan was developed using design of experiments (DoE) to create a multifunctional bioactive carrier for 58S Bioglass. This synergistic matrix was designed for minimally invasive application in non-load-bearing bone regeneration. A comprehensive physicochemical and rheological characterization was performed, as well as preliminary biological screening. The formulations were evaluated for rheological behavior, injectability, mechanical properties, swelling, degradation, thermal stability, morphology, and cytotoxicity. The innovative blend achieved precise gelation near physiological temperatures and high postinjection stability, with viscosity recovery exceeding 80% and pseudoplastic behavior tailored for injectable delivery. Low compressive moduli (∼0.01 kPa) confirmed an ultrasoft nature, prioritizing its role as a localized signaling vehicle over structural support. Degradation studies showed that increasing bioactive glass content modulates mass loss through ionic interactions within the polymeric network. Preliminary biological assays demonstrated no cytotoxicity against L929 mouse fibroblasts and human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells (DPSCs). Morphological analysis revealed porous, interconnected structures influenced by the bioglass content. Overall, this study establishes the feasibility of a novel hydrogel designed as a versatile and smart platform for minimally invasive bioactive glass delivery in non-load-bearing bone tissue repair.
Bosso et al. (Thu,) studied this question.