Antibacterial surface functionalization of biomedical scaffolds: A transformation towards more adaptive, resilient regenerative therapy
Ika Dewi Ana, Nihal Engin Vrana, Aryan Morita, Gumilang Almas Pratama Satria, Skander Hathroubi
Abstract
Biomedical scaffolds are vital in regenerative medicine, offering a three-dimensional structure that mimics the extracellular matrix and support cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. These scaffolds create a conducive microenvironment for tissue growth and repair, accelerating healing and restoring function. Despite significant progress in scaffold technology, challenges such as infection, peri-implantitis, and adverse immune reactions continue to hinder their clinical success. Furthermore, with the rising threat of infections exacerbated by climate change and antibiotic resistance, there is an urgent need for scaffolds with built-in antimicrobial properties. There are several strategies to achieve the properties, such as surface functionalization with biomolecules or structural modifications, which can effectively prevent bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on scaffold surfaces. This approach not only enhances the biocompatibility of scaffolds but also reduces the risk of infection-related complications, making them safer and more effective for clinical applications. This study aims to address these concerns by providing a comprehensive, state-of-the-art review on the development of biomedical scaffolds with antimicrobial features, focusing on innovative, adaptable, and resilient technologies that enhance the success and safety of scaffold-based therapies. • The article positions the antimicrobial coatings for biomedical applications within the bigger challenges of antibiotic resistance and climate change induced microbe driven health risks. • The article provides a link between the coating technologies developed for inert implants and their adoption to more dynamic regenerative medicine structures. • The outlook for the next generation antimicrobial solutions in the view of advanced materials, supramolecular chemistry, and AI-driven material discovery are covered.