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The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration

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A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Materials Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 April 2025) | Viewed by 18427

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Dr. Jacek Matys

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Dental Surgery Department, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wrocław, Poland
Interests: medical and dental lasers; laser surface processing; laser decontamination; laser ablation; laser in bone surgery; photobiomodulation
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to be able to invite you to submit a manuscript to the forthcoming Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IF: 5.6), entitled “The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration”.

This Special Issue is dedicated to an in-depth exploration of the potential applications inherent in mineralized tissue substitutes within the realms of both medicine and dentistry. The primary is to present a meticulous examination of the utilization of bone substitute materials to facilitate the natural emulation of the intricate bone cellular system, with a concerted effort to enhance our comprehension of the underlying bony nanostructure. Particular emphasis is placed on the judicious employment of synthetic biomaterials as bone substitutes, with a specific focus on novel methodologies involving nanomaterials and their rigorous assessment for clinical efficacy. Encompassing a wide array of subjects, including the characterization and application of bone substitute materials, biocompatibility assessment, physicochemical properties, materials in endodontic surgery, and the mechanical and biocompatible properties of CAD/CAM restorative materials, this Issue is poised to make substantial contributions to the scientific discourse surrounding advancements in the application of mineralized tissue substitutes across diverse domains.

This Issue focuses on advancing our understanding of biomaterial applications in the intricate process of bone tissue repair and regeneration. Submitted papers for this Special Issue are expected to present results that delve into molecular-level findings. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the intricate molecular mechanisms involved in the interaction between biomaterials and bone tissues, aiming to contribute valuable insights to the field of bone regeneration research.

Dr. Jacek Matys
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

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. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. 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

allograft
autograft
autologous bone
bone
graft materials
mineral substitutes
regeneration

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Related Special Issue

The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration, 2nd Edition in International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

20 pages, 6118 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Three Dimensionally Printed Octacalcium Phosphate via Binder Jetting for Use in Bone Grafting Applications

by Autcharaporn Srion, Faungchat Thammarakcharoen, Watchara Chokevivat, Waraporn Suvannapruk and Jintamai Suwanprateeb

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(12), 5633; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125633 - 12 Jun 2025

Viewed by 231

Abstract

This study investigates the fabrication and bioactivity of monophasic octacalcium phosphate (OCP) constructs using 3D-printed calcium sulfate precursors. A single-step and a two-step process were employed, transforming calcium sulfate into OCP through a controlled phase transformation in a disodium hydrogen phosphate solution. The results revealed that a single-step process for OCP conversion in 3D printed samples was unsuccessful due to incomplete transformation and the formation of intermediate phases such as brushite and monetite. In contrast, the two-step process enabled the efficient production of monophasic OCP in a shorter timeframe. The converted OCP samples exhibited a compressive strength of 7.65 ± 0.46 MPa and a contact angle of zero, indicating adequate handling strength and high wettability. The resorbability of 3D-printed OCP in simulated body fluid (SBF) was evaluated, showing weight loss through gradual dissolution accompanied by the release of calcium and phosphorus ions, followed by the consumption of these ions for reprecipitation back into OCP without direct transformation into hydroxyapatite (HA). Biocompatibility and bioactivity testing demonstrated high cell viability (96.67 ± 0.18%) using the MTT assay, indicating that the 3D-printed OCP was not cytotoxic. Alamar blue and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay showed that 3D-printed OCP supported preosteoblast proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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18 pages, 7957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrospun Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) Nanofibers with Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles Mimic Cellular Interplay in Bone Regeneration

by Eva Šebová, Filipa Leal, Michala Klusáček Rampichová, Viraj P. Nirwan, Amir Fahmi, Pedro F. Costa and Eva Filová

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(11), 5383; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26115383 - 4 Jun 2025

Viewed by 307

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles (NPs) on the cellular responses of poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL) scaffolds in bone tissue engineering applications. Three types of PLCL scaffolds were fabricated, varying in HANPs content. Saos-2 osteoblast-like cells (OBs) and THP-1-derived osteoclast-like cells (OCs) were co-cultured on the scaffolds, and cell proliferation was assessed using the MTS assay. The amount of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) was quantified to evaluate cell proliferation. Expression levels of OBs and OCs markers were analyzed via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and the production of Collagen type I was visualized using confocal microscopy. Additionally, enzymatic activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP or ACP5) was measured to assess OB and OC function, respectively. Interestingly, despite the scaffold’s structured character supporting the growth of the Saos-2 OBs and THP-1-derived OCs coculture, the incorporation of HANPs did not significantly enhance cellular responses compared to scaffolds without HANPs, except for collagen type I production. These findings suggest the need for further investigation into the potential benefits of HANPs in bone tissue engineering applications. Nevertheless, our study contributes valuable insights into optimizing biomaterial design for bone tissue regeneration, with implications for drug screening and material testing protocols. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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14 pages, 4786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Anisotropic Osteoinductive Capacity of a Nickel–Titanium Alloy Fabricated Through Laser Powder Bed Fusion

by Yu Sun, Zhenglei Yu, Qingping Liu, Luquan Ren, Xin Zhao and Jincheng Wang

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(10), 4640; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104640 - 13 May 2025

Viewed by 291

Abstract

A novel parameter optimization method for additively manufacturing nickel–titanium (NiTi) alloys using laser powder bed fusion (LBPF) was developed. Compared with the conventional NiTi alloy and the previously reported LPBF-NiTi alloy, the LBPF-NiTi alloy prepared with these parameters exhibits excellent tensile properties and an anisotropic microstructure. Since distinct regions of orthopedic implants have specific functional requirements, we investigated the anisotropy of this LPBF-NiTi in terms of its osteoinductive capacity to determine the appropriate building direction for prosthesis fabrication. The biosafety of the transverse (XY-NiTi) and longitudinal (XZ-NiTi) planes was assessed through cytotoxicity assays. Comparative analyses of the biological activities of these planes were conducted by evaluating the adherent cell counts, the adhesion morphology, and the expression of osteogenic-related genes and factors in adherent cells. Compared with XZ-NiTi, XY-NiTi exhibited superior cell adhesion properties. Additionally, the expression levels of osteogenic markers (RUNX2, ALP, OPG, and OCN) were significantly greater in bone marrow mesenchymal cells (BMMCs) adhered to XY-NiTi than in those adhered to XZ-NiTi. These results indicate a greater osteogenic potential in the XY-NiTi group. XY-NiTi was more advantageous as an implant–bone contact surface. Building implant products in the direction perpendicular to the load-bearing axis enhances biofixation; thus, this is the preferred orientation for manufacturing orthopedic implants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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27 pages, 8271 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Electroactive Phases of Poly(vinylidene Fluoride) Fibers for Tissue Engineering Applications

by Angelika Zaszczyńska, Arkadiusz Gradys, Anna Ziemiecka, Piotr K. Szewczyk, Ryszard Tymkiewicz, Małgorzata Lewandowska-Szumieł, Urszula Stachewicz and Paweł Ł. Sajkiewicz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(9), 4980; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094980 - 2 May 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2253

Abstract

Nanofibrous materials generated through electrospinning have gained significant attention in tissue regeneration, particularly in the domain of bone reconstruction. There is high interest in designing a material resembling bone tissue, and many scientists are trying to create materials applicable to bone tissue engineering with piezoelectricity similar to bone. One of the prospective candidates is highly piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), which was used for fibrous scaffold formation by electrospinning. In this study, we focused on the effect of PVDF molecular weight (180,000 g/mol and 530,000 g/mol) and process parameters, such as the rotational speed of the collector, applied voltage, and solution flow rate on the properties of the final scaffold. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy allows for determining the effect of molecular weight and processing parameters on the content of the electroactive phases. It can be concluded that the higher molecular weight of the PVDF and higher collector rotational speed increase nanofibers’ diameter, electroactive phase content, and piezoelectric coefficient. Various electrospinning parameters showed changes in electroactive phase content with the maximum at the applied voltage of 22 kV and flow rate of 0.8 mL/h. Moreover, the cytocompatibility of the scaffolds was confirmed in the culture of human adipose-derived stromal cells with known potential for osteogenic differentiation. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that PVDF scaffolds may be taken into account as a tool in bone tissue engineering and are worth further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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Review

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35 pages, 2851 KiB

Open AccessReview

3D-Bioprinted Oil-Based Hydrogels: A Sustainable Approach for Bone and Dental Regeneration

by Syafira Masri, Nurulhuda Mohd, Noor Hayaty Abu Kasim and Masfueh Razali

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(8), 3510; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083510 - 9 Apr 2025

Viewed by 630

Abstract

Recent advancements in 3D bioprinting technology have transformed the development of complex tissue scaffolds, offering significant potential for applications in bone and dental regenerative medicine. Oil-based hydrogels have garnered considerable interest owing to their tunable mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to facilitate cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. This review provides an in-depth review of recent research regarding the utilization of oil-based hydrogels in bone and dental tissue development, focusing on the 3D bioprinting strategies. The review investigates the biological efficacy of the diverse oils used in hydrogel formulations, as well as their physicochemical properties, in promoting osteogenesis and dental tissue regeneration. Significant results from both in vitro and in vivo research are examined, emphasizing their capacity to sustain biological functions and promote tissue regeneration. Challenges such as hydrogel stability, printability, and cytotoxicity efficiency are thoroughly examined, along with strategies to improve these materials for translational and clinical applications. This study highlights the revolutionary potential of oil-based hydrogels in enhancing bone and dental regenerative medicine, providing insights into their current status, as well as future research and development pathways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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20 pages, 1147 KiB

Open AccessReview

Revolutionizing Bone Regeneration with Grinder-Based Dentin Biomaterial: A Systematic Review

by Anna Olchowy, Cyprian Olchowy, Ireneusz Zawiślak, Jacek Matys and Maciej Dobrzyński

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(17), 9583; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25179583 - 4 Sep 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2678

Abstract

Bone tissue regeneration is a critical aspect of dental surgery, given the common occurrence of bone resorption leading to alveolar bone defects. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review to provide a comprehensive summary of the evidence regarding the regenerative properties of dentin biomaterial. This systematic review was conducted through comprehensive searches in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as an extensive exploration of the gray literature sources, including WorldCat, The New York Academy of Medicine Library, and Trip Database, following the established PRISMA protocol. Keywords such as tooth, dentin, grinder, and autograft guided the search, with a focus on a standardized procedure involving dentin grinders within laboratory, experimental, and clinical settings. Initially, a pool of 1942 articles was identified with 452 duplicates removed. An additional 1474 articles were excluded for not aligning with the predefined topics, and three more were excluded due to the unavailability of the full text. Ultimately, 13 articles met the strict inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The chemical composition of the dentin particles was similar to natural bone in terms of oxygen, carbon, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium content, as well as in terms of the Ca/P ratio. In addition, the dentin also contained amide I and amide II structures, as well as aliphatic and hydroxyl functional groups. The chemically treated dentin was free of microorganisms. The dentin had characteristic tubules that opened after chemical treatment. At the cellular level, dentin released bone morphogenetic protein 2, induced significant cell growth, and stimulated the reorganization of the fibroblast cytoskeleton. Most clinical studies have focused on alveolar bone regeneration. After the transplantation of demineralized dentin particles, studies have observed new bone formation, a reduction in residual bone, and an increase in connective tissue. Clinical reports consistently indicate uncomplicated healing and recovery post-transplantation. However, there is a notable gap in the evidence concerning complication rates, patient-reported outcomes, and the presence of pro-inflammatory factors. In conclusion, dentin biomaterial emerges as a versatile bone substitute, demonstrating high biocompatibility and ease of acquisition. The preservation of its internal structure containing organic matter and growth factors enhances its potential for effective bone regeneration. Particularly, in dental surgery, dentin-derived materials present a promising alternative to traditional autologous bone autografts, offering the potential to reduce patient morbidity and treatment costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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32 pages, 2385 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advancements in Photothermal Therapy Using Near-Infrared Light for Bone Tumors

by Mengzhang Xie, Taojun Gong, Yitian Wang, Zhuangzhuang Li, Minxun Lu, Yi Luo, Li Min, Chongqi Tu, Xingdong Zhang, Qin Zeng and Yong Zhou

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(8), 4139; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084139 - 9 Apr 2024

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4920

Abstract

Bone tumors, particularly osteosarcoma, are prevalent among children and adolescents. This ailment has emerged as the second most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality in adolescents. Conventional treatment methods comprise extensive surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Consequently, the management of bone tumors and bone regeneration poses significant clinical challenges. Photothermal tumor therapy has attracted considerable attention owing to its minimal invasiveness and high selectivity. However, key challenges have limited its widespread clinical use. Enhancing the tumor specificity of photosensitizers through targeting or localized activation holds potential for better outcomes with fewer adverse effects. Combinations with chemotherapies or immunotherapies also present avenues for improvement. In this review, we provide an overview of the most recent strategies aimed at overcoming the limitations of photothermal therapy (PTT), along with current research directions in the context of bone tumors, including (1) target strategies, (2) photothermal therapy combined with multiple therapies (immunotherapies, chemotherapies, and chemodynamic therapies, magnetic, and photodynamic therapies), and (3) bifunctional scaffolds for photothermal therapy and bone regeneration. We delve into the pros and cons of these combination methods and explore current research focal points. Lastly, we address the challenges and prospects of photothermal combination therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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28 pages, 2419 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview on the Big Players in Bone Tissue Engineering: Biomaterials, Scaffolds and Cells

by Maria Pia Ferraz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(7), 3836; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25073836 - 29 Mar 2024

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5466

Abstract

Presently, millions worldwide suffer from degenerative and inflammatory bone and joint issues, comprising roughly half of chronic ailments in those over 50, leading to prolonged discomfort and physical limitations. These conditions become more prevalent with age and lifestyle factors, escalating due to the growing elderly populace. Addressing these challenges often entails surgical interventions utilizing implants or bone grafts, though these treatments may entail complications such as pain and tissue death at donor sites for grafts, along with immune rejection. To surmount these challenges, tissue engineering has emerged as a promising avenue for bone injury repair and reconstruction. It involves the use of different biomaterials and the development of three-dimensional porous matrices and scaffolds, alongside osteoprogenitor cells and growth factors to stimulate natural tissue regeneration. This review compiles methodologies that can be used to develop biomaterials that are important in bone tissue replacement and regeneration. Biomaterials for orthopedic implants, several scaffold types and production methods, as well as techniques to assess biomaterials’ suitability for human use—both in laboratory settings and within living organisms—are discussed. Even though researchers have had some success, there is still room for improvements in their processing techniques, especially the ones that make scaffolds mechanically stronger without weakening their biological characteristics. Bone tissue engineering is therefore a promising area due to the rise in bone-related injuries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Biomaterials in Bone Tissue Repair and Regeneration)

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