Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering

A special issue of Bioengineering (ISSN 2306-5354). This special issue belongs to the section "Regenerative Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 November 2022) | Viewed by 50009

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Orthopaedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
Interests: orthopedics; tissue engineering; biomaterials
Department of Orthopaedics, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
Interests: orthopedics; tissue engineering; biomaterials

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Recent advances have led to exciting developments in bone tissue engineering. The aim of this Special Issue is to present the state-of-the-art progress in such advances in bone tissue engineering and their scientific and clinical applications. We welcome original research articles, comprehensive reviews, methods, mini-reviews, and perspectives including (but not limited to) the following topics:

  • Biomaterials for bone tissue engineering;
  • Gene therapy strategies in bone tissue engineering;
  • The potential impact of bone tissue engineering in surgery;
  • Stem cells in bone tissue engineering;
  • 3D printing for bone tissue engineering;
  • Drug/gene delivery strategies in bone tissue engineering;
  • Animal models for bone tissue engineering and modelling disease.

Prof. Dr. Xisheng Weng
Dr. Wei Zhu
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • bone tissue engineering
  • biomaterials
  • gene therapy
  • surgery
  • stem cells
  • 3D printing
  • drug/gene delivery

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Published Papers (15 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 7889 KiB  
Article
Biofabrication of Poly(glycerol sebacate) Scaffolds Functionalized with a Decellularized Bone Extracellular Matrix for Bone Tissue Engineering
by Selcan Guler, Kian Eichholz, Farhad Chariyev-Prinz, Pierluca Pitacco, Halil Murat Aydin, Daniel J. Kelly and İbrahim Vargel
Bioengineering 2023, 10(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10010030 - 25 Dec 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2522
Abstract
The microarchitecture of bone tissue engineering (BTE) scaffolds has been shown to have a direct effect on the osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and bone tissue regeneration. Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a promising polymer that can be tailored to have specific mechanical [...] Read more.
The microarchitecture of bone tissue engineering (BTE) scaffolds has been shown to have a direct effect on the osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and bone tissue regeneration. Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a promising polymer that can be tailored to have specific mechanical properties, as well as be used to create microenvironments that are relevant in the context of BTE applications. In this study, we utilized PGS elastomer for the fabrication of a biocompatible and bioactive scaffold for BTE, with tissue-specific cues and a suitable microstructure for the osteogenic lineage commitment of MSCs. In order to achieve this, the PGS was functionalized with a decellularized bone (deB) extracellular matrix (ECM) (14% and 28% by weight) to enhance its osteoinductive potential. Two different pore sizes were fabricated (small: 100–150 μm and large: 250–355 μm) to determine a preferred pore size for in vitro osteogenesis. The decellularized bone ECM functionalization of the PGS not only improved initial cell attachment and osteogenesis but also enhanced the mechanical strength of the scaffold by up to 165 kPa. Furthermore, the constructs were also successfully tailored with an enhanced degradation rate/pH change and wettability. The highest bone-inserted small-pore scaffold had a 12% endpoint weight loss, and the pH was measured at around 7.14. The in vitro osteogenic differentiation of the MSCs in the PGS-deB blends revealed a better lineage commitment of the small-pore-sized and 28% (w/w) bone-inserted scaffolds, as evidenced by calcium quantification, ALP expression, and alizarin red staining. This study demonstrates a suitable pore size and amount of decellularized bone ECM for osteoinduction via precisely tailored PGS elastomer BTE scaffolds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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13 pages, 3011 KiB  
Article
Structural Evaluation and Conformational Dynamics of ZNF141T474I Mutation Provoking Postaxial Polydactyly Type A
by Yasir Ali, Faisal Ahmad, Muhammad Farhat Ullah, Noor Ul Haq, M. Inam Ul Haq, Abdul Aziz, Ferjeni Zouidi, M. Ijaz Khan and Sayed M. Eldin
Bioengineering 2022, 9(12), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9120749 - 1 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1883
Abstract
Postaxial Polydactyly (PAP) is a congenital disorder of limb abnormalities characterized by posterior extra digits. Mutations in the N-terminal region of the Zinc finger protein 141 (ZNF141) gene were recently linked with PAP type A. Zinc finger proteins exhibit similarity at their [...] Read more.
Postaxial Polydactyly (PAP) is a congenital disorder of limb abnormalities characterized by posterior extra digits. Mutations in the N-terminal region of the Zinc finger protein 141 (ZNF141) gene were recently linked with PAP type A. Zinc finger proteins exhibit similarity at their N-terminal regions due to C2-H2 type Zinc finger domains, but their functional preferences vary significantly by the binding patterns of DNA. Methods: This study delineates the pathogenic association, miss-fold aggregation, and conformational paradigm of a missense variant (c.1420C > T; p.T474I) in ZNF141 gene segregating PAP through a molecular dynamics simulations approach. Results: In ZNF141 protein, helices play a crucial role by attaching three specific target DNA base pairs. In ZNF141T474I protein, H1, H3, and H6 helices attain more flexibility by acquiring loop conformation. The outward disposition of the proximal portion of H9-helix in mutant protein occurs due to the loss of prior beta-hairpins at the C terminal region of the C2-H2 domain. The loss of hydrogen bonds and exposure of hydrophobic residues to solvent and helices turning to loops cause dysfunction of ZNF141 protein. These significant changes in the stability and conformation of the mutant protein were validated using essential dynamics and cross-correlation maps, which revealed that upon point mutation, the overall motion of the proteins and the correlation between them were completely different, resulting in Postaxial polydactyly type A. Conclusions: This study provides molecular insights into the structural association of ZNF141 protein with PAP type A. Identification of active site residues and legends offers new therapeutic targets for ZNF141 protein. Further, it reiterates the functional importance of the last residue of a protein. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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14 pages, 2240 KiB  
Article
Mechanically Derived Tissue Stromal Vascular Fraction Acts Anti-inflammatory on TNF Alpha-Stimulated Chondrocytes In Vitro
by Joeri van Boxtel, Lucienne A. Vonk, Hieronymus P. Stevens and Joris A. van Dongen
Bioengineering 2022, 9(8), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9080345 - 27 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2086
Abstract
Enzymatically isolated stromal vascular fraction (SVF) has already shown to be effective as a treatment for osteoarthritis (OA). Yet, the use of enzymes for clinical purpose is highly regulated in many countries. Mechanical preparation of SVF results in a tissue-like SVF (tSVF) containing [...] Read more.
Enzymatically isolated stromal vascular fraction (SVF) has already shown to be effective as a treatment for osteoarthritis (OA). Yet, the use of enzymes for clinical purpose is highly regulated in many countries. Mechanical preparation of SVF results in a tissue-like SVF (tSVF) containing intact cell–cell connections including extracellular matrix (ECM) and is therefore less regulated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the immunomodulatory and pro-regenerative effect of tSVF on TNFα-stimulated chondrocytes in vitro. tSVF was mechanically derived using the Fractionation of Adipose Tissue (FAT) procedure. Characterization of tSVF was performed, e.g., cellular composition based on CD marker expression, colony forming unit and differentiation capacity after enzymatic dissociation (from heron referred to as tSVF-derived cells). Different co-cultures of tSVF-derived cells and TNFα-stimulated chondrocytes were analysed based on the production of sulphated glycosaminoglycans and the anti-inflammatory response of chondrocytes. Characterization of tSVF-derived cells mainly contained ASCs, endothelial cells, leukocytes and supra-adventitial cells. tSVF-derived cells were able to form colonies and differentiate into multiple cell lineages. Co-cultures with chondrocytes resulted in a shift of the ratio between tSVF cells: chondrocytes, in favor of chondrocytes alone (p < 0.05), and IL-1β and COX2 gene expression was upregulated in TNFα-treated chondrocytes. After treatment with (a conditioned medium of) tSVF-derived cells, IL-1β and COX2 gene expression was significantly reduced (p < 0.01). These results suggest mechanically derived tSVF stimulates chondrocyte proliferation while preserving the function of chondrocytes. Moreover, tSVF suppresses TNFα-stimulated chondrocyte inflammation in vitro. This pro-regenerative and anti-inflammatory effect shows the potential of tSVF as a treatment for osteoarthritis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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10 pages, 1530 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Properties of Magnetic Fe3O4/PCL Porous Biocomposite Scaffolds with Different Sizes and Quantities of Fe3O4 Particles
by Jianhua Ge, Ramazan Asmatulu, Bo Zhu, Qiu Zhang and Shang-You Yang
Bioengineering 2022, 9(7), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9070278 - 26 Jun 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2299
Abstract
In clinical practice, to treat diseases such as osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma with broad surgical ostectomy, it would be ideal to have scaffolds that not only fill up the bone void but also possess the ability to regulate the subsequent regimes for targeted chemotherapy [...] Read more.
In clinical practice, to treat diseases such as osteosarcoma or chondrosarcoma with broad surgical ostectomy, it would be ideal to have scaffolds that not only fill up the bone void but also possess the ability to regulate the subsequent regimes for targeted chemotherapy and/or bone regeneration. Magnetic targeting of therapeutic agents to specific sites in the body provides certain advantages such as minimal side-effects of anti-cancer drugs. The objective of this study was to characterize novel magnetic scaffolds that can be used as a central station to regulate the drug delivery of a magnetic nanoparticle system. Different sizes and quantities of Fe3O4 particles were mixed with poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) to construct the magnetic scaffolds, and their mechanical properties, degradation performance, and cell biocompatibility were evaluated. It appeared that the presence of Fe3O4 particles influenced the magnetic, mechanical, and biological performances of the scaffolds. The prepared bio-nanocomposite scaffolds provided predominantly magnetic/superparamagnetic properties. Scaffolds with a micron-sized Fe3O4 to PCL weight (wt) ratio of 0.1:0.9 exhibited higher mechanical performances among samples, with Young’s modulus reaching 1 MPa and stiffness, 13 N/mm. Although an increased Fe3O4 particle proportion mildly influenced cell growth during the biocompatibility test, none of the Fe3O4/PCL scaffolds showed a cytotoxic effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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17 pages, 3640 KiB  
Article
Simulating In Vitro the Bone Healing Potential of a Degradable and Tailored Multifunctional Mg-Based Alloy Platform
by Victor Martin, Mónica Garcia, Maria de Fátima Montemor, João Carlos Salvador Fernandes, Pedro Sousa Gomes and Maria Helena Fernandes
Bioengineering 2022, 9(6), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9060255 - 15 Jun 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1980
Abstract
This work intended to elucidate, in an in vitro approach, the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during the bone healing process, upon implantation of a tailored degradable multifunctional Mg-based alloy. This was prepared by a conjoining anodization of the bare alloy (AZ31) followed [...] Read more.
This work intended to elucidate, in an in vitro approach, the cellular and molecular mechanisms occurring during the bone healing process, upon implantation of a tailored degradable multifunctional Mg-based alloy. This was prepared by a conjoining anodization of the bare alloy (AZ31) followed by the deposition of a polymeric coating functionalized with hydroxyapatite. Human endothelial cells and osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiating cells were exposed to the extracts from the multifunctional platform (having a low degradation rate), as well as the underlying anodized and original AZ31 alloy (with higher degradation rates). Extracts from the multifunctional coated alloy did not affect cellular behavior, although a small inductive effect was observed in the proliferation and gene expression of endothelial and osteoblastic cells. Extracts from the higher degradable anodized and original alloys induced the expression of some endothelial genes and, also, ALP and TRAP activities, further increasing the expression of some early differentiation osteoblastic and osteoclastic genes. The integration of these results in a translational approach suggests that, following the implantation of a tailored degradable Mg-based material, the absence of initial deleterious effects would favor the early stages of bone repair and, subsequently, the on-going degradation of the coating and the subjacent alloy would increase bone metabolism dynamics favoring a faster bone formation and remodeling process and enhancing bone healing. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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16 pages, 19187 KiB  
Article
Highly Porous Type II Collagen-Containing Scaffolds for Enhanced Cartilage Repair with Reduced Hypertrophic Cartilage Formation
by Claudio Intini, Tom Hodgkinson, Sarah M. Casey, John P. Gleeson and Fergal J. O’Brien
Bioengineering 2022, 9(6), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9060232 - 26 May 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3319
Abstract
The ability to regenerate damaged cartilage capable of long-term performance in an active joint remains an unmet clinical challenge in regenerative medicine. Biomimetic scaffold biomaterials have shown some potential to direct effective cartilage-like formation and repair, albeit with limited clinical translation. In this [...] Read more.
The ability to regenerate damaged cartilage capable of long-term performance in an active joint remains an unmet clinical challenge in regenerative medicine. Biomimetic scaffold biomaterials have shown some potential to direct effective cartilage-like formation and repair, albeit with limited clinical translation. In this context, type II collagen (CII)-containing scaffolds have been recently developed by our research group and have demonstrated significant chondrogenic capacity using murine cells. However, the ability of these CII-containing scaffolds to support improved longer-lasting cartilage repair with reduced calcified cartilage formation still needs to be assessed in order to elucidate their potential therapeutic benefit to patients. To this end, CII-containing scaffolds in presence or absence of hyaluronic acid (HyA) within a type I collagen (CI) network were manufactured and cultured with human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vitro under chondrogenic conditions for 28 days. Consistent with our previous study in rat cells, the results revealed enhanced cartilage-like formation in the biomimetic scaffolds. In addition, while the variable chondrogenic abilities of human MSCs isolated from different donors were highlighted, protein expression analysis illustrated consistent responses in terms of the deposition of key cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Specifically, CI/II-HyA scaffolds directed the greatest cell-mediated synthesis and accumulation in the matrices of type II collagen (a principal cartilage ECM component), and reduced deposition of type X collagen (a key protein associated with hypertrophic cartilage formation). Taken together, these results provide further evidence of the capability of these CI/II-HyA scaffolds to direct enhanced and longer-lasting cartilage repair in patients with reduced hypertrophic cartilage formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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14 pages, 5599 KiB  
Article
3D-Printed Tubular Scaffolds Decorated with Air-Jet-Spun Fibers for Bone Tissue Applications
by Febe Carolina Vazquez-Vazquez, Daniel Chavarria-Bolaños, Marine Ortiz-Magdaleno, Vincenzo Guarino and Marco Antonio Alvarez-Perez
Bioengineering 2022, 9(5), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9050189 - 27 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3017
Abstract
The fabrication of instructive materials to engineer bone substitute scaffolds is still a relevant challenge. Current advances in additive manufacturing techniques make possible the fabrication of 3D scaffolds with even more controlled architecture at micro- and submicrometric levels, satisfying the relevant biological and [...] Read more.
The fabrication of instructive materials to engineer bone substitute scaffolds is still a relevant challenge. Current advances in additive manufacturing techniques make possible the fabrication of 3D scaffolds with even more controlled architecture at micro- and submicrometric levels, satisfying the relevant biological and mechanical requirements for tissue engineering. In this view, integrated use of additive manufacturing techniques is proposed, by combining 3D printing and air-jet spinning techniques, to optimize the fabrication of PLA tubes with nanostructured fibrous coatings for long bone defects. The physicochemical characterization of the 3D tubular scaffolds was performed by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, profilometry, and mechanical properties. In vitro biocompatibility was evaluated in terms of cell adhesion, proliferation, and cell–material interactions, by using human fetal osteoblasts to validate their use as a bone growth guide. The results showed that 3D-printed scaffolds provide a 3D architecture with highly reproducible properties in terms of mechanical and thermal properties. Moreover, nanofibers are collected onto the surface, which allows forming an intricate and interconnected network that provides microretentive cues able to improve adhesion and cell growth response. Therefore, the proposed approach could be suggested to design innovative scaffolds with improved interface properties to support regeneration mechanisms in long bone treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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16 pages, 2227 KiB  
Article
Demonstrating the Potential of Using Bio-Based Sustainable Polyester Blends for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
by David H. Ramos-Rodriguez, Samand Pashneh-Tala, Amanpreet Kaur Bains, Robert D. Moorehead, Nikolaos Kassos, Adrian L. Kelly, Thomas E. Paterson, C. Amnael Orozco-Diaz, Andrew A. Gill and Ilida Ortega Asencio
Bioengineering 2022, 9(4), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9040163 - 6 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3906
Abstract
Healthcare applications are known to have a considerable environmental impact and the use of bio-based polymers has emerged as a powerful approach to reduce the carbon footprint in the sector. This research aims to explore the suitability of using a new sustainable polyester [...] Read more.
Healthcare applications are known to have a considerable environmental impact and the use of bio-based polymers has emerged as a powerful approach to reduce the carbon footprint in the sector. This research aims to explore the suitability of using a new sustainable polyester blend (Floreon™) as a scaffold directed to aid in musculoskeletal applications. Musculoskeletal problems arise from a wide range of diseases and injuries related to bones and joints. Specifically, bone injuries may result from trauma, cancer, or long-term infections and they are currently considered a major global problem in both developed and developing countries. In this work we have manufactured a series of 3D-printed constructs from a novel biopolymer blend using fused deposition modelling (FDM), and we have modified these materials using a bioceramic (wollastonite, 15% w/w). We have evaluated their performance in vitro using human dermal fibroblasts and rat mesenchymal stromal cells. The new sustainable blend is biocompatible, showing no differences in cell metabolic activity when compared to PLA controls for periods 1–18 days. FloreonTM blend has proven to be a promising material to be used in bone tissue regeneration as it shows an impact strength in the same range of that shown by native bone (just under 10 kJ/m2) and supports an improvement in osteogenic activity when modified with wollastonite. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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Review

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22 pages, 2279 KiB  
Review
Advances in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Osteoarthritis: From Preclinical and Clinical Perspectives
by Zehui Lv, Xuejie Cai, Yixin Bian, Zhanqi Wei, Wei Zhu, Xiuli Zhao and Xisheng Weng
Bioengineering 2023, 10(2), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10020195 - 2 Feb 2023
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4477
Abstract
The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disorder of joints, has substantially increased in recent years. Its key pathogenic hallmarks include articular cartilage destruction, synovium inflammation, and bone remodeling. However, treatment outcomes are unsatisfactory. Until recently, common therapy methods, such as analgesic and [...] Read more.
The prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative disorder of joints, has substantially increased in recent years. Its key pathogenic hallmarks include articular cartilage destruction, synovium inflammation, and bone remodeling. However, treatment outcomes are unsatisfactory. Until recently, common therapy methods, such as analgesic and anti-inflammatory treatments, were aimed to treat symptoms that cannot be radically cured. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), i.e., mesoderm non-hematopoietic cells separated from bone marrow, adipose tissue, umbilical cord blood, etc., have been intensively explored as an emerging technique for the treatment of OA over the last few decades. According to existing research, MSCs may limit cartilage degradation in OA by interfering with cellular immunity and secreting a number of active chemicals. This study aimed to examine the potential mechanism of MSCs in the treatment of OA and conduct a thorough review of both preclinical and clinical data. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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14 pages, 885 KiB  
Review
Bio-Activated PEEK: Promising Platforms for Improving Osteogenesis through Modulating Macrophage Polarization
by Haobu Chai, Wenzhi Wang, Xiangwei Yuan and Chen Zhu
Bioengineering 2022, 9(12), 747; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9120747 - 1 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2004
Abstract
The attention on orthopedic biomaterials has shifted from their direct osteogenic properties to their osteoimmunomodulation, especially the modulation of macrophage polarization. Presently, advanced technologies endow polyetheretherketone (PEEK) with good osteoimmunomodulation by modifying PEEK surface characteristics or incorporating bioactive substances with regulating macrophage polarization. [...] Read more.
The attention on orthopedic biomaterials has shifted from their direct osteogenic properties to their osteoimmunomodulation, especially the modulation of macrophage polarization. Presently, advanced technologies endow polyetheretherketone (PEEK) with good osteoimmunomodulation by modifying PEEK surface characteristics or incorporating bioactive substances with regulating macrophage polarization. Recent studies have demonstrated that the fabrication of a hydrophilic surface and the incorporation of bioactive substances into PEEK (e.g., zinc, calcium, and phosphate) are good strategies to promote osteogenesis by enhancing the polarization of M2 macrophages. Furthermore, the modification by other osteoimmunomodulatory composites (e.g., lncRNA-MM2P, IL-4, IL-10, and chitosan) and their controlled and desired release may make PEEK an optimal bio-activated implant for regulating and balancing the osteogenic system and immune system. The purpose of this review is to comprehensively evaluate the potential of bio-activated PEEK in polarizing macrophages into M2 phenotype to improve osteogenesis. For this objective, we retrieved and discussed different kinds of bio-activated PEEK regarding improving osteogenesis through modulating macrophage polarization. Meanwhile, the relevant challenges and outlook were presented. We hope that this review can shed light on the development of bio-activated PEEK with more favorable osteoimmunomodulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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39 pages, 13383 KiB  
Review
Scaffold Fabrication Techniques of Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering: A Critical Review
by Sakchi Bhushan, Sandhya Singh, Tushar Kanti Maiti, Chhavi Sharma, Dharm Dutt, Shubham Sharma, Changhe Li and Elsayed Mohamed Tag Eldin
Bioengineering 2022, 9(12), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9120728 - 24 Nov 2022
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7216
Abstract
Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is a promising alternative to repair bone defects using biomaterial scaffolds, cells, and growth factors to attain satisfactory outcomes. This review targets the fabrication of bone scaffolds, such as the conventional and electrohydrodynamic techniques, for the treatment of bone [...] Read more.
Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is a promising alternative to repair bone defects using biomaterial scaffolds, cells, and growth factors to attain satisfactory outcomes. This review targets the fabrication of bone scaffolds, such as the conventional and electrohydrodynamic techniques, for the treatment of bone defects as an alternative to autograft, allograft, and xenograft sources. Additionally, the modern approaches to fabricating bone constructs by additive manufacturing, injection molding, microsphere-based sintering, and 4D printing techniques, providing a favorable environment for bone regeneration, function, and viability, are thoroughly discussed. The polymers used, fabrication methods, advantages, and limitations in bone tissue engineering application are also emphasized. This review also provides a future outlook regarding the potential of BTE as well as its possibilities in clinical trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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16 pages, 1281 KiB  
Review
Advances in Biomaterial-Mediated Gene Therapy for Articular Cartilage Repair
by Wei Zhu, Tong Niu, Zhanqi Wei, Bo Yang and Xisheng Weng
Bioengineering 2022, 9(10), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9100502 - 24 Sep 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2140
Abstract
Articular cartilage defects caused by various reasons are relatively common in clinical practice, but the lack of efficient therapeutic methods remains a substantial challenge due to limitations in the chondrocytes’ repair abilities. In the search for scientific cartilage repair methods, gene therapy appears [...] Read more.
Articular cartilage defects caused by various reasons are relatively common in clinical practice, but the lack of efficient therapeutic methods remains a substantial challenge due to limitations in the chondrocytes’ repair abilities. In the search for scientific cartilage repair methods, gene therapy appears to be more effective and promising, especially with acellular biomaterial-assisted procedures. Biomaterial-mediated gene therapy has mainly been divided into non-viral vector and viral vector strategies, where the controlled delivery of gene vectors is contained using biocompatible materials. This review will introduce the common clinical methods of cartilage repair used, the strategies of gene therapy for cartilage injuries, and the latest progress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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21 pages, 1676 KiB  
Review
Recent Developments and Current Applications of Organic Nanomaterials in Cartilage Repair
by Zhanqi Wei, Ganlin Zhang, Qing Cao, Tianhao Zhao, Yixin Bian, Wei Zhu and Xisheng Weng
Bioengineering 2022, 9(8), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9080390 - 15 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2531
Abstract
Regeneration of cartilage is difficult due to the unique microstructure, unique multizone organization, and avascular nature of cartilage tissue. The development of nanomaterials and nanofabrication technologies holds great promise for the repair and regeneration of injured or degenerated cartilage tissue. Nanomaterials have structural [...] Read more.
Regeneration of cartilage is difficult due to the unique microstructure, unique multizone organization, and avascular nature of cartilage tissue. The development of nanomaterials and nanofabrication technologies holds great promise for the repair and regeneration of injured or degenerated cartilage tissue. Nanomaterials have structural components smaller than 100 nm in at least one dimension and exhibit unique properties due to their nanoscale structure and high specific surface area. The unique properties of nanomaterials include, but are not limited to, increased chemical reactivity, mechanical strength, degradability, and biocompatibility. As an emerging nanomaterial, organic nanocomposites can mimic natural cartilage in terms of microstructure, physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties. The integration of organic nanomaterials is expected to develop scaffolds that better mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) environment of cartilage to enhance scaffold-cell interactions and improve the functionality of engineered tissue constructs. Next-generation hydrogel technology and bioprinting can be used not only for healing cartilage injury areas but also for extensive osteoarthritic degenerative changes within the joint. Although more challenges need to be solved before they can be translated into full-fledged commercial products, nano-organic composites remain very promising candidates for the future development of cartilage tissue engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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15 pages, 580 KiB  
Review
Bioengineering Approaches for Delivering Growth Factors: A Focus on Bone and Cartilage Regeneration
by Sheeba Shakoor, Eleyna Kibble and Jehan J. El-Jawhari
Bioengineering 2022, 9(5), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9050223 - 20 May 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3186
Abstract
Growth factors are bio-factors that target reparatory cells during bone regeneration. These growth factors are needed in complicated conditions of bone and joint damage to enhance tissue repair. The delivery of these growth factors is key to ensuring the effectiveness of regenerative therapy. [...] Read more.
Growth factors are bio-factors that target reparatory cells during bone regeneration. These growth factors are needed in complicated conditions of bone and joint damage to enhance tissue repair. The delivery of these growth factors is key to ensuring the effectiveness of regenerative therapy. This review discusses the roles of various growth factors in bone and cartilage regeneration. The methods of delivery of natural or recombinant growth factors are reviewed. Different types of scaffolds, encapsulation, Layer-by-layer assembly, and hydrogels are tools for growth factor delivery. Considering the advantages and limitations of these methods is essential to developing regenerative therapies. Further research can accordingly be planned to have new or combined technologies serving this purpose. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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14 pages, 1806 KiB  
Review
Recent Developments and Current Applications of Hydrogels in Osteoarthritis
by Tianhao Zhao, Zhanqi Wei, Wei Zhu and Xisheng Weng
Bioengineering 2022, 9(4), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering9040132 - 24 Mar 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5259
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease that causes disability if left untreated. The treatment of OA currently requires a proper delivery system that avoids the loss of therapeutic ingredients. Hydrogels are widely used in tissue engineering as a platform for carrying [...] Read more.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease that causes disability if left untreated. The treatment of OA currently requires a proper delivery system that avoids the loss of therapeutic ingredients. Hydrogels are widely used in tissue engineering as a platform for carrying drugs and stem cells, and the anatomical environment of the limited joint cavity is suitable for hydrogel therapy. This review begins with a brief introduction to OA and hydrogels and illustrates the effects, including the analgesic effects, of hydrogel viscosupplementation on OA. Then, considering recent studies of hydrogels and OA, three main aspects, including drug delivery systems, mesenchymal stem cell entrapment, and cartilage regeneration, are described. Hydrogel delivery improves drug retention in the joint cavity, making it possible to deliver some drugs that are not suitable for traditional injection; hydrogels with characteristics similar to those of the extracellular matrix facilitate cell loading, proliferation, and migration; hydrogels can promote bone regeneration, depending on their own biochemical properties or on loaded proregenerative factors. These applications are interlinked and are often researched together. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments and Applications in Bone Tissue Engineering)
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