Bone Tissue Engineering Scaffolds for Bone Aging: Drug Delivery and Microenvironment Regulation

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Gerontology

Background:

• Aging causes physiological decline, notably impacting the musculoskeletal system.
• Bone aging results in osteoporosis, impaired osteogenic niche, increased fracture risk, and reduced regeneration.
• Osteoporotic bone defects pose significant clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanisms and treatments for osteoporosis and bone aging.
• To analyze tissue-engineered scaffolds for osteoporotic bone defects.
• To explore drug delivery scaffolds for localized osteoporosis therapy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on osteoporosis mechanisms and treatments.
• In-depth analysis of scaffold preparation techniques and modifications.
• Review of drug delivery scaffold materials for osteoporotic bone defect repair.

Main Results:

• Tissue-engineered scaffolds provide mechanical support and facilitate bone regeneration.
• Scaffolds can act as drug delivery vehicles for localized osteoporosis treatment, reducing systemic side effects.
• Diverse preparation techniques and modifications impact scaffold osteogenic properties.

Conclusions:

• Tissue-engineered scaffolds are crucial for managing osteoporotic bone defects.
• Localized drug delivery via biomaterials improves the local aging microenvironment.
• This review provides a theoretical basis for treating bone aging and osteoporotic defects.