Biofabrication of functional bone tissue: defining tissue-engineered scaffolds from nature

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Research

Background:

• Bone damage causes pain and mobility loss, exceeding natural regeneration capacity.
• Current tissue engineering (TE) scaffolds lack the biochemical and physical complexity for optimal bone cell function.
• Advanced biomaterials and additive manufacturing enable 3D tissue development for bone defect repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of bone tissue engineering (TE) strategies.
• To highlight key considerations in selecting biomaterials, cells, and growth factors for TE.
• To discuss innovative TE models and their therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

• Review of natural bone structure, cell biology, and remodeling processes.
• Analysis of cytokines, signaling pathways, and causes of bone defects.
• Exploration of current and emerging TE strategies, including additive manufacturing.

Main Results:

• Significant gaps exist in biomimicking the complex conditions required for bone regeneration.
• Advanced manufacturing techniques facilitate the creation of 3D tissue constructs.
• Innovative TE models show promise for cancer treatment and drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• Bone tissue engineering (TE) is a promising field for addressing bone defects.
• Further development is required to fully recapitulate the natural bone microenvironment.
• Future TE applications include advanced therapeutic drug delivery and cancer treatments.