Zn-MOF/bioactive glass nanoparticles were successfully prepared using quick–alkali-modified sol–gel and tested for gentamicin drug delivery. Samples of 0 and 0.8 mol% Zn MOF contents (BG and BG/Zn MOF, respectively) were characterized using XRD, FTIR, TEM, and SEM/EDX. In addition, zeta characteristics and surface area parameters were also evaluated. Moreover, the cell viability of the prepared samples was tested against the osteosarcoma MG-63 cell line to evaluate the ability of prepared samples for bone regeneration. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of glass samples with and without antibiotics was determined against different microorganisms. Finally, the samples were loaded with gentamicin drug, and drug release profile and kinetics were studied too. XRD and FTIR results confirmed the physicochemical properties of the prepared samples. TEM results showed that particles were in the nano-sized range in both samples; however, the presence of Zn MOF increased the dispersity of particles. Both samples were bioactive, as indicated by hydroxyapatite formation on their surfaces. Cytotoxicity estimation of prepared materials exhibited their safe and nontoxic nature. BG/Zn MOF sample demonstrated prolonged drug release and excellent antimicrobial activity in comparison to BG alone. Therefore, the present study provides promising preliminary results regarding the usage of BG/Zn MOF nanoparticles loaded with gentamicin as an effective approach for bone regeneration.

Graphical Abstract