Programmable DNA-based biomaterials for bone tissue engineering

Bone defects are a common pathology in bone tissue diseases, and existing therapeutic interventions have significant limitations, highlighting the need for innovative strategies and advanced biomaterials. DNA, traditionally recognized as a prominent genetic material, also possesses exceptional properties as a biological material, making it an ideal nanoscale building block for creating various DNA-based biomaterials, such as DNA framework materials and DNA hydrogels. DNA-based biomaterials offer notable advantages, including structural versatility, biocompatibility, and, crucially, programmability, which position them as promising candidates for bone tissue engineering. This review explores recent advancements in the use of DNA-based biomaterials for bionic mineralization and drug delivery systems, as well as their future potential in this field.