Recent Advances in Peptide-Functionalized Hydrogels for Bone Tissue Engineering

Efficient therapeutic approaches for bone regeneration are urgently required to address the significant challenges associated with the repair of large-scale or long-segment bone defects. Peptide-functionalized hydrogels (PFHs) have emerged as important bioactive materials in bone tissue engineering because they produce biomimetic microenvironments enriched with multiple biochemical signals. This review summarizes the key fabrication techniques for PFHs and discusses their diverse applications in different fields. Furthermore, we systematically highlighted the biochemical functionalization of PFHs, which includes basic functions such as cell adhesion, cell recruitment, and osteoinduction; improved functions such as angiogenesis, biomineralization, immune regulation, and hormone regulation; and other functions, including antimicrobial and antitumor effects. Finally, critical biosafety considerations associated with PFHs and perspectives on developing intelligent PFHs are addressed. This review aims to inspire further research on PFHs and accelerate their applications in bone tissue engineering.