Feature Review Papers on Functional Biomaterials

A special issue of Journal of Functional Biomaterials (ISSN 2079-4983).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 April 2025 | Viewed by 16268

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
Interests: biosensors; interfaces; polymers; membranes
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue intends to capture a snapshot of the growth points in the biomaterials field by presenting up-to-date reviews. The field of interest is therefore reasonably broad, reflecting JFB’s expansive remit, and will thus speak to the wide spectrum of materials and linked post-implantation and biologically reactive phenomena. Materials of interest include the bulk phase, encompassing natural and artificial polymers, their mechanical and degradative attributes, or the areas for which permananent-tissue replacing functions are intended. A further putative focus is the design, reactivity and biointeractions associated with biomaterials surfaces. These would encompass features such as surface chemial modification and profile manipulation from the nano- to the micro-scales, referable to either in vitro models and in vivo implants. In regard to all the above, there will be related interest in degradative products and their biological consequences or in opportunities where ‘designer’ biomolecules and pharmacological agents might be incorporated for controlled release and manipulative function. A growing area of interest is the regulatory switching that occurs in the reactive cell population in and around implant sites and so reviews of molecular biological techniques along with the application of ‘omics’ would be particularly welcome. The end points of reviewed work can be any clinical sector, with uses ranging from dentistry/orthopaedics to tissue engineered constructs with endocrine replacement function. Ultimately, the interest for this Special Issue is the cross talk between the biomatrix and the biomaterial it is interfaced with. Thus, the catchment area can also extend to the materials design of implantable sensors and actuators as the archetype functional biomaterials.

Prof. Dr. Pankaj Vadgama
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Functional Biomaterials is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • biointerface
  • tissue response
  • biocompatibility
  • biodegradation
  • biosensor
  • actuator
  • dental implant
  • bone replacement
  • tissue engineered construct
  • haemocompatibility
  • surface modification
  • biopolymer
  • polymer
  • ceramic
  • drug release

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Review

33 pages, 4014 KiB  
Review
Advancements in Hybrid Cellulose-Based Films: Innovations and Applications in 2D Nano-Delivery Systems
by Ghazaleh Ramezani, Ion Stiharu, Theo G. M. van de Ven and Vahe Nerguizian
J. Funct. Biomater. 2024, 15(4), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb15040093 - 4 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1756
Abstract
This review paper delves into the realm of hybrid cellulose-based materials and their applications in 2D nano-delivery systems. Cellulose, recognized for its biocompatibility, versatility, and renewability, serves as the core matrix for these nanomaterials. The paper offers a comprehensive overview of the latest [...] Read more.
This review paper delves into the realm of hybrid cellulose-based materials and their applications in 2D nano-delivery systems. Cellulose, recognized for its biocompatibility, versatility, and renewability, serves as the core matrix for these nanomaterials. The paper offers a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in the creation, analysis, and application of these materials, emphasizing their significance in nanotechnology and biomedical domains. It further illuminates the integration of nanomaterials and advanced synthesis techniques that have significantly improved the mechanical, chemical, and biological properties of hybrid cellulose-based materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers on Functional Biomaterials)
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32 pages, 3404 KiB  
Review
An Overview of Magnesium-Phosphate-Based Cements as Bone Repair Materials
by Rita Gelli and Francesca Ridi
J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(8), 424; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14080424 - 14 Aug 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2906
Abstract
In the search for effective biomaterials for bone repair, magnesium phosphate cements (MPCs) are nowadays gaining importance as bone void fillers thanks to their many attractive features that overcome some of the limitations of the well-investigated calcium-phosphate-based cements. The goal of this review [...] Read more.
In the search for effective biomaterials for bone repair, magnesium phosphate cements (MPCs) are nowadays gaining importance as bone void fillers thanks to their many attractive features that overcome some of the limitations of the well-investigated calcium-phosphate-based cements. The goal of this review was to highlight the main properties and applications of MPCs in the orthopedic field, focusing on the different types of formulations that have been described in the literature, their main features, and the in vivo and in vitro response towards them. The presented results will be useful to showcase the potential of MPCs in the orthopedic field and will suggest novel strategies to further boost their clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers on Functional Biomaterials)
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27 pages, 3659 KiB  
Review
4D Printing in Biomedical Engineering: Advancements, Challenges, and Future Directions
by Maziar Ramezani and Zaidi Mohd Ripin
J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(7), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14070347 - 29 Jun 2023
Cited by 54 | Viewed by 7848
Abstract
4D printing has emerged as a transformative technology in the field of biomedical engineering, offering the potential for dynamic, stimuli-responsive structures with applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical devices, and diagnostics. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements, challenges, [...] Read more.
4D printing has emerged as a transformative technology in the field of biomedical engineering, offering the potential for dynamic, stimuli-responsive structures with applications in tissue engineering, drug delivery, medical devices, and diagnostics. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the advancements, challenges, and future directions of 4D printing in biomedical engineering. We discuss the development of smart materials, including stimuli-responsive polymers, shape-memory materials, and bio-inks, as well as the various fabrication techniques employed, such as direct-write assembly, stereolithography, and multi-material jetting. Despite the promising advances, several challenges persist, including material limitations related to biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and degradation rates; fabrication complexities arising from the integration of multiple materials, resolution and accuracy, and scalability; and regulatory and ethical considerations surrounding safety and efficacy. As we explore the future directions for 4D printing, we emphasise the need for material innovations, fabrication advancements, and emerging applications such as personalised medicine, nanomedicine, and bioelectronic devices. Interdisciplinary research and collaboration between material science, biology, engineering, regulatory agencies, and industry are essential for overcoming challenges and realising the full potential of 4D printing in the biomedical engineering landscape. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers on Functional Biomaterials)
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12 pages, 1154 KiB  
Review
The Role of Neutrophils in Biomaterial-Based Tissue Repair—Shifting Paradigms
by Ana Beatriz Sousa and Judite N. Barbosa
J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(6), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14060327 - 19 Jun 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2852
Abstract
Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are pursuing clinical valid solutions to repair and restore function of damaged tissues or organs. This can be achieved in different ways, either by promoting endogenous tissue repair or by using biomaterials or medical devices to replace damaged [...] Read more.
Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are pursuing clinical valid solutions to repair and restore function of damaged tissues or organs. This can be achieved in different ways, either by promoting endogenous tissue repair or by using biomaterials or medical devices to replace damaged tissues. The understanding of the interactions of the immune system with biomaterials and how immune cells participate in the process of wound healing are critical for the development of successful solutions. Until recently, it was thought that neutrophils participate only in the initial steps of an acute inflammatory response with the role of eliminating pathogenic agents. However, the appreciation that upon activation the longevity of neutrophils is highly increased and the fact that neutrophils are highly plastic cells and can polarize into different phenotypes led to the discovery of new and important actions of neutrophils. In this review, we focus on the roles of neutrophils in the resolution of the inflammatory response, in biomaterial–tissue integration and in the subsequent tissue repair/regeneration. We also discuss the potential of neutrophils for biomaterial-based immunomodulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers on Functional Biomaterials)
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