Functionalized polymeric nanomaterials for BMP-2 delivery: recent advances toward improved bone regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2) is crucial for bone formation but faces clinical challenges due to rapid degradation and side effects.
• Current limitations hinder BMP-2's therapeutic potential in bone repair and regenerative medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in polymeric nanotechnology for controlled and localized BMP-2 delivery.
• To critically examine functionalized nanocarriers for BMP-2 in bone tissue engineering.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies (2006-2026) from Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed.
• Analysis of polymeric nanocarriers, surface functionalization, ligand conjugation, and stimuli-responsive designs.
• Evaluation of in-vitro and in-vivo studies on BMP-2 delivery systems.

Main Results:

• Polymeric nanotechnology enables controlled, localized, and sustained BMP-2 release, enhancing stability and targeting.
• Functionalized nanocarriers show promise for improving the therapeutic index of BMP-2.
• Combining bioresponsive elements with nanoarchitectural motifs can mimic the natural ECM for bone regeneration.

Conclusions:

• Advanced polymeric nanocarriers offer a promising strategy for overcoming BMP-2 delivery challenges in bone regeneration.
• Tailored nanocarrier design is key to improving BMP-2 efficacy and safety.
• Future strategies should focus on recapitulating the native microenvironment for next-generation bone tissue engineering therapies.