Synthesis and Characterization of Amyloid Beta-Lactoglobulin-Mumijo-Nanohydroxyapatite Complex: A New Composite for Bone Regeneration

Mumijo is a traditional drug that has been used in traditional medicine for a long time and its aqueous extract is used for the treatment of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Besides, in modern medicine, nano-sized hydroxyapatite (nHA) has achieved immense attention for bone integration and regeneration of bony defects treatment. Since the frequency of accidental bone disorders and damage is growing worldwide, the need for artificial bone implants is increasing. Thus, in this study, the fibrillar beta-lactoglobulin (BLG)-Mumijo-nHA complex was synthesized and characterized by UV–Visible, fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared, circular dichroism spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and zeta potential analysis. The results showed that the fibrillar BLG-Mumijo-nHA complex was formed. The results also confirmed that the complex had a negative surface charge and was moderately stable. Cell viability assays indicated that fibrillar BLG-Mumijo-nHA complex induced bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell growth at higher concentrations. Although further experiments are warranted to draw firm conclusions, it could be proposed that the fibrillar BLG-Mumijo-nHA complex could be a good candidate for the treatment of osteoporosis and bone fractures.