A hierarchical vascularized engineered bone inspired by intramembranous ossification for mandibular regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Craniofacial Surgery

Background:

• Mandibular defects significantly impact function and appearance.
• Current bionic reconstruction methods for the mandible face challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a hierarchical vascularized engineered bone for mandible reconstruction.
• To mimic intramembranous ossification for enhanced bone regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing an ultra-tough polyion complex as a scaffold.
• Integrating angiogenesis and osteogenesis modules.
• Employing a bionic strategy inspired by natural mandibular development.

Main Results:

• The engineered bone formed a hierarchical vascular network matching mandibular anatomy.
• In vivo experiments showed regenerated bone similar to natural mandibular bone morphologically and genomically.
• The sonic hedgehog signaling pathway activation confirmed intramembranous ossification.

Conclusions:

• Hierarchical vascularized engineered bone demonstrates significant potential for clinical mandibular defect reconstruction.
• The developmental process-based bionic strategy offers an effective approach for tissue regeneration.