Zinc-Based Biomaterials for Regeneration and Therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Zinc is increasingly recognized for its crucial role in biological processes, earning it the moniker 'calcium of the twenty-first century'.
• Emerging zinc-based biomaterials leverage intrinsic physiological relevance, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and regenerative capabilities.
• Key categories include metallic zinc alloys, zinc ceramic nanomaterials, and zinc metal-organic frameworks (MOFs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in zinc-based biomaterials.
• To discuss current challenges and limitations in the field.
• To identify future research directions for zinc biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent developments in zinc-based biomaterials.
• Analysis of different types of zinc biomaterials: metallic alloys, ceramic nanomaterials, and MOFs.
• Discussion of applications and properties of each material type.

Main Results:

• Metallic zinc implants exhibit controlled degradation rates, supporting tissue healing and remodeling.
• Zinc ceramic nanomaterials offer therapeutic benefits in tissue engineering due to nanostructures and antibacterial effects.
• Zinc metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are suitable for drug delivery and cancer therapy owing to large surface areas and functionalization.

Conclusions:

• Zinc-based biomaterials represent a significant advancement in regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications.
• Overcoming current obstacles is crucial for the widespread clinical translation of these materials.
• Future research should focus on optimizing material design, understanding degradation mechanisms, and exploring novel applications.