Biomaterial Properties Modulating Bone Regeneration
Yi Zhu, Cynthia Goh, Annie Shrestha
Abstract
Biomaterial scaffolds have been gaining momentum in the past several decades for their potential applications in the area of tissue engineering. They function as three-dimensional porous constructs to temporarily support the attachment of cells, subsequently influencing cell behaviors such as proliferation and differentiation to repair or regenerate defective tissues. In addition, scaffolds can also serve as delivery vehicles to achieve sustained release of encapsulated growth factors or therapeutic agents to further modulate the regeneration process. Given the limitations of current bone grafts used clinically in bone repair, alternatives such as biomaterial scaffolds have emerged as potential bone graft substitutes. This review summarizes how physicochemical properties of biomaterial scaffolds can influence cell behavior and its downstream effect, particularly in its application to bone regeneration.