Nanomaterials and bone regeneration

Abstract

The worldwide incidence of bone disorders and conditions has been increasing. Bone is a nanomaterials composed of organic (mainly collagen) and inorganic (mainly nano-hydroxyapatite) components, with a hierarchical structure ranging from nanoscale to macroscale. In consideration of the serious limitation in traditional therapies, nanomaterials provide some new strategy in bone regeneration. Nanostructured scaffolds provide a closer structural support approximation to native bone architecture for the cells and regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration, which results in the formation of functional tissues. In this article, we focused on reviewing the classification and design of nanostructured materials and nanocarrier materials for bone regeneration, their cell interaction properties, and their application in bone tissue engineering and regeneration. Furthermore, some new challenges about the future research on the application of nanomaterials for bone regeneration are described in the conclusion and perspectives part. Biocompatible nanomaterials that mimic live tissues are expected to transform bone repair and regeneration. Bone comprises organic collagen fibers and calcium phosphate crystals assembled into a complex architecture of a porous core surrounded by a compact shell. The growing incidence of age-related degenerative bone diseases such as infections, osteoporosis, and tumors has led to intensive research on artificial tissue scaffolds and substitutes to support bone regeneration, and nanomaterials have emerged as promising substances. Yun-Feng Lin and coworkers from Sichuan University, China, have reviewed the development of nanostructured materials and their application to bone engineering and regeneration. These nanomaterials interact readily with cells, providing scaffolds that stimulate stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. They also promote repair by assisting the formation of the matrix surrounding the cells.