The 15th Anniversary of JFB—Functional Biomaterials: Bioactive Properties and Medical Applications

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The field of functional biomaterials has advanced significantly in recent years, shaping the future of regenerative medicine, implant technology, and drug delivery. To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Journal of Functional Biomaterials (JFB), this Special Issue aims to encompass state-of-the-art research on bioactive materials and their diverse medical applications. The focus will be on biomaterials that actively interact with biological systems to promote tissue integration, modulate immune responses, and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, bioactive ceramics, biodegradable polymers, metallic scaffolds, nanostructured biomaterials, and hydrogel-based systems. Studies on biofunctionalization strategies, 3D-printed materials, surface modifications, and the use of biomaterials for drug release and antimicrobial applications are also welcome. This Special Issue invites original research articles, reviews, and communications from experts working with innovative biomaterials in all relevant fields. By compiling the latest advances in functional biomaterials, we expect to provide comprehensive insights into the field of biomaterial science and its various applications meant to improve clinical outcomes.

Dr. Cristian Scheau
Prof. Dr. Andreea Didilescu
Prof. Dr. Constantin Caruntu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • functional biomaterials
  • bioactive materials
  • regenerative medicine
  • implantable biomaterials
  • drug delivery systems
  • biodegradable polymers
  • surface modification
  • 3D printing
  • tissue engineering
  • antimicrobial coatings

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Review

17 pages, 1502 KiB  
Review
Peripheral Nerve Protection Strategies: Recent Advances and Potential Clinical Applications
by Weronika Radecka, Wiktoria Nogalska and Maria Siemionow
J. Funct. Biomater. 2025, 16(5), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb16050153 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 326
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are a significant clinical challenge, often resulting in persistent sensory and motor deficits despite surgical repair. Autologous nerve grafts remain the gold standard for repair; however, outcomes are frequently suboptimal due to donor site morbidity and inconsistent functional recovery. [...] Read more.
Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are a significant clinical challenge, often resulting in persistent sensory and motor deficits despite surgical repair. Autologous nerve grafts remain the gold standard for repair; however, outcomes are frequently suboptimal due to donor site morbidity and inconsistent functional recovery. A major obstacle in nerve regeneration is the formation of postoperative adhesions and fibrosis, which impede healing and necessitate revision surgeries. Nerve protectors from biological, synthetic, and hybrid materials offer a promising tissue engineering strategy to enhance nerve regeneration. These protectors are applied as a protective barrier when a nerve is severed without the gap, allowing for direct repair. They provide mechanical support and reduce scarring. Biocompatible biological wraps, including vascularized fat flaps, vein wraps, collagen-based materials, human amniotic membrane (hAM), porcine small intestinal submucosa (PSIS), and chitosan, modulate immune responses and promote vascularization. Synthetic alternatives, like polycaprolactone (PCL), provide mechanical stability with controlled degradation. Hybrid wraps, such as PCL-amnion, combine the benefits of both. Despite optimistic results, the heterogeneity of study methodologies hinders direct comparisons and standardization. This review highlights the latest developments in nerve wraps, their clinical applications, limitations, and future potential, guiding clinicians in selecting the most appropriate materials for peripheral nerve repair. Full article
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