Biomaterials in Bone Regeneration: Challenges to Guarantee Appropriate Biological Features: 2nd Edition

A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomimetics of Materials and Structures".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 December 2024 | Viewed by 11073

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Oral Surgery and Implantology Unit, Department of Stomatology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, Gascó Oliag 1, 46010 Valencia, Spain
Interests: bone regeneration; biomaterials

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The treatment of bone defects remains a significant challenge in need of a chemical solution, despite the many therapeutic options that have been developed like autografts, allografts, and artificial scaffolds. With the development of biomaterials in recent years, biomaterials in the form of 3D‐printed scaffolds have emerged as a powerful tool in bone tissue engineering research, allowing for the creation of scaffolds with precise internal architecture and controlled mechanical and biological properties. The success of these scaffolds depends on the careful selection of materials, printing parameters, and scaffold designs. Tissue-engineered bone grafts aim to create a mechanically strong, biologically viable, and degradable bone graft by combining a three-dimensional porous scaffold with osteoblast or progenitor cells.

Moreover, there is growing interest in utilizing biomimetic electroactive biomaterials that closely mimic and recapitulate the natural electrophysiological microenvironment of healthy bone tissue, providing a favorable and conducive microenvironment to promote osteogenesis and bone regeneration under various pathological conditions.

The current challenges mainly concern ensuring appropriate biological properties for stimulating the adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation of specific cell populations, in addition to the vascularization of the graft. This Special Issue is an opportunity for comparison among authors who have been dealing with these topics and provides a stimulus for young researchers who are entering this fascinating field to provide their contribution and reach for ever more ambitious milestones.

Dr. Berta García-Mira
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • bone regeneration
  • biomaterials
  • tissue engineering
  • osteoblast
  • mesenchymal stem cells
  • 3D bioprinting
  • vascularization
  • angiogenesis
  • osteogenesis
  • growth factor

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 15084 KiB  
Article
Study of the Impact on Zygomatic Bone Using Numerical Simulation
by Gonzalo Ruiz-de-León, María Baus-Domínguez, Maribel González-Martín, Aida Gutiérrez-Corrales, Eusebio Torres-Carranza, Álvaro-José Martínez-González, Daniel Torres-Lagares, José-Manuel López-Millan and Jesús Ambrosiani-Fernández
Biomimetics 2024, 9(11), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9110696 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 395
Abstract
The zygomatic bone, a fundamental structure in facial anatomy, is exposed to fractures in impact situations, such as traffic accidents or contact sports. The installation of zygomatic implants can also alter the distribution of forces in this region, increasing the risk of fractures. [...] Read more.
The zygomatic bone, a fundamental structure in facial anatomy, is exposed to fractures in impact situations, such as traffic accidents or contact sports. The installation of zygomatic implants can also alter the distribution of forces in this region, increasing the risk of fractures. To evaluate this situation, the first step is to develop a complex anatomical model from the stomatognathic point of view so that simulations in this sense can be validated. This study uses numerical simulation using a finite-element method (FEM) to analyze the behavior of the zygomatic bone under impacts of different velocities, offering a more realistic approach than previous studies by including the mandible, cervical spine, and masticatory muscles. Methods: An FEM model was developed based on 3D scans of actual bones, and simulations were performed using Abaqus Explicit 2023 software (Dassault Systemes, Vélizy-Villacoublay, France). The impact was evaluated using a steel cylinder (200 mm length, 40 mm diameter, 2 kg weight) impacted at speeds of 5, 10, 15, and 20 km/h. Zygomatic, maxillary, and mandibular bone properties were based on dynamic stiffness parameters, and bone damage was analyzed using ductile fracture and fracture energy criteria. Results: The results show that at impact velocities of 15 and 20 km/h, the zygomatic bone suffered crush fractures, with impact forces up to 400 kg. At 10 km/h, a combination of crushing and bending was observed, while at 5 km/h, only local damage without complete fracture was detected. The maximum stresses were concentrated at the zygoma–jaw junction, with values above 100 MPa at some critical points. Conclusion: The FEM model developed offers a detailed representation of the mechanical behavior, integrating the main structures of the stomatognathic apparatus of the zygomatic bone under impact, providing valuable information to, for example, advance injury prevention and zygomatic implant design. Higher impact velocities result in severe fractures, underscoring the need for protective measures in clinical and sports settings. Full article
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11 pages, 3472 KiB  
Article
Influence of Trabecular Bone Presence on Osseodensification Instrumentation: An In Vivo Study in Sheep
by Zachary Stauber, Shangtao Wu, Justin E. Herbert, Amanda Willers, Edmara T. P. Bergamo, Vasudev Vivekanand Nayak, Nicholas A. Mirsky, Arthur Castellano, Sinan K. Jabori, Marcelo V. Parra, Estevam A. Bonfante, Lukasz Witek and Paulo G. Coelho
Biomimetics 2024, 9(9), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9090568 - 19 Sep 2024
Viewed by 738
Abstract
Osseodensification enhances the stability of endosteal implants. However, pre-clinical studies utilizing osseodensification instrumentation do not account for the limited presence of trabeculae seen clinically. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of osseodensification instrumentation on osteotomy healing in scenarios with and without the [...] Read more.
Osseodensification enhances the stability of endosteal implants. However, pre-clinical studies utilizing osseodensification instrumentation do not account for the limited presence of trabeculae seen clinically. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of osseodensification instrumentation on osteotomy healing in scenarios with and without the presence of trabecular bone. A ~10 cm incision was made over the hip of twelve sheep. Trabecular bone was surgically removed from twelve sites (one site/animal; negative control (Neg. Ctrl)) and left intact at twelve sites (one site/animal; experimental group (Exp.)). All osteotomies were created using the osseodensification drilling protocol. Each osteotomy received an endosteal implant and was evaluated after 3 or 12 weeks of healing (n = 6 animals/time). Histology revealed increased woven and lamellar bone surrounding the implants in the Exp. group relative to the Neg. Ctrl group. The Exp. group demonstrated the presence of bone fragments, which acted as nucleating sites, thereby enhancing the bone formation and remodeling processes. Bone-to-implant contact (%BIC) and bone area fractional occupancy (%BAFO) were significantly higher in the Exp. group relative to the Neg. Ctrl group both at 3 weeks (p = 0.009 and p = 0.043) and 12 weeks (p = 0.010 and p = 0.008). Osseodensification instrumentation in the presence of trabecular bone significantly improved osseointegration. However, no negative influences such as necrosis, inflammation, microfractures, or dehiscence were observed in the absence/limited presence of trabeculae. Full article
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15 pages, 4246 KiB  
Article
3D Printing and Surface Engineering of Ti6Al4V Scaffolds for Enhanced Osseointegration in an In Vitro Study
by Changyu Ma, Natan Roberto de Barros, Tianqi Zheng, Alejandro Gomez, Marshall Doyle, Jianhao Zhu, Himansu Sekhar Nanda, Xiaochun Li, Ali Khademhosseini and Bingbing Li
Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070423 - 10 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2241
Abstract
Ti6Al4V superalloy is recognized as a good candidate for bone implants owing to its biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and high strength-to-weight ratio. While dense metal implants are associated with stress shielding issues due to the difference in densities, stiffness, and modulus of elasticity compared [...] Read more.
Ti6Al4V superalloy is recognized as a good candidate for bone implants owing to its biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and high strength-to-weight ratio. While dense metal implants are associated with stress shielding issues due to the difference in densities, stiffness, and modulus of elasticity compared to bone tissues, the surface of the implant/scaffold should mimic the properties of the bone of interest to assure a good integration with a strong interface. In this study, we investigated the additive manufacturing of porous Ti6Al4V scaffolds and coating modification for enhanced osteoconduction using osteoblast cells. The results showed the successful fabrication of porous Ti6Al4V scaffolds with adequate strength. Additionally, the surface treatment with NaOH and Dopamine Hydrochloride (DOPA) promoted the formation of Dopamine Hydrochloride (DOPA) coating with an optimized coating process, providing an environment that supports higher cell viability and growth compared to the uncoated Ti6Al4V scaffolds, as demonstrated by the higher proliferation ratios observed from day 1 to day 29. These findings bring valuable insights into the surface modification of 3D-printed scaffolds for improved osteoconduction through the coating process in solutions. Full article
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15 pages, 2371 KiB  
Article
Radiographic Study of Transcrestal Sinus Floor Elevation Using Osseodensification Technique with Graft Material: A Pilot Study
by Khrystyna Sulyhan-Sulyhan, Javier Barberá-Millán, Carolina Larrazábal-Morón, Julián Espinosa-Giménez and María Dolores Gómez-Adrián
Biomimetics 2024, 9(5), 276; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9050276 - 4 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1183
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to evaluate the level of implant success after transcrestal sinus floor elevation (tSFE) using the osseodensification technique (OD) combined with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) by analyzing clinical and radiographic results. Moreover, the increase in bone height was analyzed immediately after [...] Read more.
This pilot study aimed to evaluate the level of implant success after transcrestal sinus floor elevation (tSFE) using the osseodensification technique (OD) combined with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) by analyzing clinical and radiographic results. Moreover, the increase in bone height was analyzed immediately after surgery, 3 months after, and before loading by taking standardized radiographic measurements. Thirteen patients, four males and nine females, with a mean age of 54.69 ± 5.86 years, requiring the placement of one implant in the upper posterior maxilla, with a residual bone height of <8 mm and a minimum bone width of 5 mm, participated in the study. The bone gain data was obtained using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) immediately after surgery and twelve months after the placement. The correlation between initial and final bone height with implant stability was also assessed. The results were analyzed using SPSS 23 software (p < 0.05). The results of the study indicated a 100% implant success rate after a follow-up period of twelve months. Preoperative main bone height was 5.70 ± 0.95 mm. The osseodensification technique allowed a significant increase of 6.65 ± 1.06 mm immediately after surgery. After a twelve-month follow-up, a graft material contraction of 0.90 ± 0.49 mm was observed. No correlation was observed between the bone height at the different times of the study and the primary stability of the implant. Considering the limitations of the size sample of this study, the osseodensification technique used for transcrestal sinus lift with the additional bone graft material (β-TCP) may provide a predictable elevation of the maxillary sinus floor, allowing simultaneous implant insertion with adequate stability irrespective of bone height limitations. Full article
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16 pages, 2853 KiB  
Article
Clinical Outcomes and Return-to-Sport Rates following Fragment Fixation Using Hydroxyapatite/Poly-L-Lactate Acid Threaded Pins for Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans: A Case Series
by Taichi Shimizu, Yoichi Murata, Hirotaka Nakashima, Haruki Nishimura, Hitoshi Suzuki, Makoto Kawasaki, Manabu Tsukamoto, Akinori Sakai and Soshi Uchida
Biomimetics 2024, 9(4), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9040232 - 13 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1640
Abstract
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee is an uncommon injury in young active patients. There is currently a lack of knowledge regarding clinical outcomes and return-to-sport rates after fragment fixation surgery using hydroxy appetite poly-L-lactic acid (HA/PLLA) threaded pins for knee OCD among [...] Read more.
Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee is an uncommon injury in young active patients. There is currently a lack of knowledge regarding clinical outcomes and return-to-sport rates after fragment fixation surgery using hydroxy appetite poly-L-lactic acid (HA/PLLA) threaded pins for knee OCD among athletes. Our purpose was to investigate the clinical outcomes and return-to-sport rates following osteochondral fragment fixation using HA/PLLA pins for the treatment of knee OCD lesions among athletes. A total of 45 patients were retrospectively reviewed. In total, 31 patients were excluded, and 14 patients were included. Pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcome scores (PROSs), including the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS), were compared. In addition, patients were categorized into four groups according to postoperative sports status: higher, same, lower than preinjury, or unable to return to sports. The mean age was 14.4 years (SD 1.67). All patients were male. All PROSs significantly improved at 6, 12, and 24 months postsurgery compared to presurgery. 50% of the patients returned to sports at the same or higher level after surgery. Fragment fixation using HA/PLLA pins leads to favorable clinical outcome scores and high return-to-sport rates in the treatment of athletes with knee OCD. Full article
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Review

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17 pages, 481 KiB  
Review
The Applicability of Nanostructured Materials in Regenerating Soft and Bone Tissue in the Oral Cavity—A Review
by Giorgiana Corina Muresan, Sanda Boca, Ondine Lucaciu and Mihaela Hedesiu
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060348 - 8 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1256
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Two of the most exciting new technologies are biotechnology and nanotechnology. The science of nanostructures, or nanotechnology, is concerned with the development, testing, and use of structures and molecules with nanoscale dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nm. The development [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Two of the most exciting new technologies are biotechnology and nanotechnology. The science of nanostructures, or nanotechnology, is concerned with the development, testing, and use of structures and molecules with nanoscale dimensions ranging from 1 to 100 nm. The development of materials and tools with high specificity that interact directly at the subcellular level is what makes nanotechnology valuable in the medical sciences. At the cellular or tissue level, this might be converted into focused clinical applications with the greatest possible therapeutic benefits and the fewest possible side effects. The purpose of the present study was to review the literature and explore the applicability of the nanostructured materials in the process of the regeneration of the soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. Materials and Methods: An electronic search of articles was conducted in several databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, to conduct this study, and the 183 articles that were discovered were chosen and examined, and only 22 articles met the inclusion criteria in this review. Results: The findings of this study demonstrate that using nanoparticles can improve the mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and osteoinductivity of biomaterials. Conclusions: Most recently, breakthroughs in tissue engineering and nanotechnology have led to significant advancements in the design and production of bone graft substitutes and hold tremendous promise for the treatment of bone abnormalities. The creation of intelligent nanostructured materials is essential for various applications and therapies, as it allows for the precise and long-term delivery of medication, which yields better results. Full article
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19 pages, 4310 KiB  
Review
Biological Surface Layer Formation on Bioceramic Particles for Protein Adsorption
by Reo Kimura, Daichi Noda, Zizhen Liu, Wanyu Shi, Ryota Akutsu and Motohiro Tagaya
Biomimetics 2024, 9(6), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9060347 - 8 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 925
Abstract
In the biomedical fields of bone regenerative therapy, the immobilization of proteins on the bioceramic particles to maintain their highly ordered structures is significantly important. In this review, we comprehensively discussed the importance of the specific surface layer, which can be called “non-apatitic [...] Read more.
In the biomedical fields of bone regenerative therapy, the immobilization of proteins on the bioceramic particles to maintain their highly ordered structures is significantly important. In this review, we comprehensively discussed the importance of the specific surface layer, which can be called “non-apatitic layer”, affecting the immobilization of proteins on particles such as hydroxyapatite and amorphous silica. It was suggested that the water molecules and ions contained in the non-apatitic layer can determine and control the protein immobilization states. In amorphous silica particles, the direct interactions between proteins and silanol groups make it difficult to immobilize the proteins and maintain their highly ordered structures. Thus, the importance of the formation of a surface layer consisting of water molecules and ions (i.e., a non-apatitic layer) on the particle surfaces for immobilizing proteins and maintaining their highly ordered structures was suggested and described. In particular, chlorine-containing amorphous silica particles were also described, which can effectively form the surface layer of protein immobilization carriers. The design of the bio-interactive and bio-compatible surfaces for protein immobilization while maintaining the highly ordered structures will improve cell adhesion and tissue formation, thereby contributing to the construction of social infrastructures to support super-aged society. Full article
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Other

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19 pages, 731 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Nano-Hydroxyapatite Scaffold Enrichment on Bone Regeneration In Vivo—A Systematic Review
by Dijana Mitić, Jelena Čarkić, Jelena Jaćimović, Miloš Lazarević, Milica Jakšić Karišik, Boško Toljić and Jelena Milašin
Biomimetics 2024, 9(7), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9070386 - 25 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1695
Abstract
Objectives: In order to ensure improved and accelerated bone regeneration, nano-hydroxyapatite scaffolds are often enriched with different bioactive components to further accelerate and improve bone healing. In this review, we critically examined whether the enrichment of nHAp/polymer scaffolds with growth factors, hormones, polypeptides, [...] Read more.
Objectives: In order to ensure improved and accelerated bone regeneration, nano-hydroxyapatite scaffolds are often enriched with different bioactive components to further accelerate and improve bone healing. In this review, we critically examined whether the enrichment of nHAp/polymer scaffolds with growth factors, hormones, polypeptides, microRNAs and exosomes improved new bone formation in vivo. Materials and Methods: Out of 2989 articles obtained from the literature search, 106 papers were read in full, and only 12 articles met the inclusion criteria for this review. Results: Several bioactive components were reported to stimulate accelerated bone regeneration in a variety of bone defect models, showing better results than bone grafting with nHAp scaffolds alone. Conclusions: The results indicated that composite materials based on nHAp are excellent candidates as bone substitutes, while nHAp scaffold enrichment further accelerates bone regeneration. The standardization of animal models should be provided in order to clearly define the most significant parameters of in vivo studies. Only in this way can the adequate comparison of findings from different in vivo studies be possible, further advancing our knowledge on bone regeneration and enabling its translation to clinical settings. Full article
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