Synthesis of hydroxyapatite for biomedical applications

The current need for long lasting implants and bone substitutes characterized by biocompatibility, bioactivity and mechanical properties, without the immune rejection is a great challenge for scientists. These bone substitute structures should be prepared for individual patients with all details controlled on the micrometer level. Similarly, nontoxic, biocompatible targeted drug delivery systems which allow controlling the rate and time period of the drug delivery and simultaneously eliminating toxic and side effects on the healthy tissues, are of great interest. Extensive attempts have been made to develop a simple, efficient, and green method to form biofunctional scaffolds and implant coatings possessing the above mentioned significant biocompatibility, bioactivity and mechanical strength. Moreover, that could also serve as drug delivery systems. Hydroxyapatite (HA) which is a major mineral component of vertebrate bones and teeth is an excellent material for these purposes. In this literature review the biologically inspired scaffolds, bone substitutes, implants characterized by mechanical strength and biocompatibility, as well the drug delivery systems, based on hydroxyapatite are discussed.