Advances in biomimetic mineralized biomaterials for bone tissue engineering

The intricate orchestration of bone biomineralization-where cells, signaling molecules and organic matrix tightly cooperate to produce native bone with remarkable strength and dynamic biological activities-exemplifies a pinnacle of evolutionary engineering. Inspired by this living blueprint, biomimetic mineralized biomaterials (BMBs) have emerged as a key strategy in bone tissue engineering, aiming not only to replicate the hybrid composition and multiscale architecture of native bone but also to emulate aspects of its formation and biological functions. This review first outlines the fundamental mechanisms of bone biomineralization as a conceptual basis for biomimicry. It then summarizes recent advances in material systems and fabrication strategies that enable increasingly precise control over minerals. We further discuss the roles of BMBs in shaping the regenerative microenvironment, including their regulation of osteogenesis, angiogenesis, immunomodulation and neuroregeneration. Despite notable progress, enduring challenges include achieving precise structural mimicry, faithfully reproducing the dynamic biomineralization and seamlessly integrating multiple functions within systems. Addressing these challenges is poised to bridge the gap from concept to clinic, guiding the development of biomimetic systems that operate in harmony with the body's native microenvironment and realizing the promise of 'learning from nature to restore life'.