The future of biomedical materials

The purpose of this communication is to present the author's perspectives on the future of biomedical materials that were presented at the Larry L. Hench Retirement Symposium held at Imperial College, London, in late September 2005. The author has taken a broad view of the future of biomedical materials and has presented key ideas, concepts, and perspectives necessary for the future research and development of biomedical polymers and their future role as an enabling technology for the continuing progress of tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, prostheses, and medical devices. This communication, based on the oral presentation, is meant to be provocative and generate discussion. In addition, it is targeted for students and young scientists who will play an ever-increasing role in the future of biomedical materials.