Emerging Biomaterials for Cartilage Regeneration

Dear Colleagues,

Even though there have been many advances in the field of regenerative medicine, currently, there is no definitive cure for osteoarthritic diseases. However, the use of medical devices based on glycosaminoglycans to treat osteoarthritis symptoms and attempt to delay surgery are increasingly widespread.

Implanting mesenchymal cells and chondrocytes with specifically functionalized scaffolds/biomaterials/gels/nanoparticles allows for the generation of a suitable environment for cartilage recovery. Furthermore, the in vitro pre-conditioning of cells may facilitate the local environment for tissue regeneration.

The aim of this Special Issue is to share with the scientific community useful results for the development and application of glycosaminoglycan (also chemically modified)-based materials/scaffolds/gels/sheets to improve cartilage regeneration. Another purpose is to shed light on the new biochemical mechanisms related to cartilage regeneration.

Original research articles and mini- and complete reviews are welcome.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The design and preparation of scaffolds based on modified or unmodified glycosaminoglycans for the purpose of cartilage regeneration;
• The development of gels/scaffolds/biomaterials/sheets for implanting mesenchymal or articular cells;
• The regulation of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects;
• The development of methods to prepare cells for use in cartilage regeneration;
• New strategies for the functionalization of biomaterials;
• The development of medical devices based on glycosaminoglycans produced by biotechnological means with potential applications in the treatment of osteoarthritic diseases.

Dr. Valentina Vassallo
Guest Editor

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