Hydroxyapatite as a biomaterial - a gift that keeps on giving

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Applications

Background:

• Hydroxyapatite (HA), a synthetic analogue of biogenic apatite, possesses unique physicochemical properties.
• These properties make HA a compelling material for various medical applications, including tissue engineering, drug delivery, and bioimaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies on hydroxyapatite (HA) for novel medical applications.
• To explore the advantages and safety considerations of HA in clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on hydroxyapatite (HA) applications.
• Analysis of HA's physicochemical properties, including biocompatibility, bioactivity, synthesis, and functionalization.
• Evaluation of safety data for particulate HA in parenteral medications.

Main Results:

• HA offers advantages such as biocompatibility, bioactivity, facile synthesis, environmental responsiveness, and versatile functionalization.
• It can be loaded with therapeutics and used for bioimaging, enabling theranostic applications.
• Safety of HA is dependent on particle size, morphology, and surface properties.

Conclusions:

• Hydroxyapatite (HA) presents significant potential for diverse medical applications.
• Further research into its deficiencies and potential side effects is crucial for clinical translation.
• The safety of novel HA formulations must be rigorously assessed on a case-by-case basis.