[Compiled and translated by Hsieh Yi-Che / Comprehensive Report] A U.S. study found that natural extracts from turmeric and ginger can enhance the bonding of implants to bones, resist infections, and reduce cancer cells, bringing improvements to medical implants. This study was published in the Journal of the American Ceramic Society.
According to the science website SciTechDaily, many implants use ceramics or ceramic composites at the points where bones contact metal or other materials. Currently, about 7 million Americans have metal hip or knee implants, many of which eventually require revision because they cannot bond well with the bones or lose strength over time.
Surface infections of implants are also a problem, occurring in nearly one-third of failure cases and are difficult to treat. Osteosarcoma, the most common bone cancer in children and adolescents, is another challenge. Some cancer cells may remain even after surgery, chemotherapy, and implantation treatments.
To address these issues, a research team at Washington State University focused on natural extracts. The team developed a coating for titanium implants using ginger extract and curcumin. This coating is designed to gradually release these compounds over time. The researchers conducted femoral implant tests on rat models under laboratory conditions.
The experimental results showed that the coated implants enhanced the connection between bone and titanium, nearly doubling the bonding strength within six weeks post-surgery. Compared to untreated samples, it also eliminated 92% of bacteria on the implant surface and reduced cancer cells in the surrounding area by 11 times.
Corresponding author Susmita Bose explained that implants usually need to be removed after infection, but there is no other way to repair the bone in the patient’s body. Therefore, infection-related issues can pose significant health risks and economic burdens.
Bose pointed out that this research perfectly combines the essence of traditional medicine with modern medicine. He said the best parts come from food, while the latest advances come from biomedical devices.
Bose emphasized that the research team is developing implants that can provide resistance to infection and aid bone integration. Their ultimate goal is to show the world that many small methods can significantly improve patients’ lives, including hip, knee, spine, or shoulder implants.