Applications of nanobioceramics to healthcare technology

Abstract

The development of functional, biological solutions to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs is the goal of tissue engineering. This involves an interplay of cells, scaffolds and biomolecules that would generate a favourable response when implanted into patients, thus restoring functions lost or impaired due to injuries or diseases. Advances in nanotechnology have enabled the design and fabrication of novel materials at the nanometre scale. Hailed as the next generation of advanced materials, nanomaterials possess advantages of being biochemically and nanostructurally similar to that of physiological tissues. Moreover, nanotopological cues are incorporated, ensuring appropriate cellular responses, thereby enhancing the success of tissue regeneration. Nanobioceramics play a crucial role in bone tissue engineering due to its close chemical similarity to physiological bone and excellent biocompatibility. In addition, nanoscale engineering of these materials has the ability to enhance mechanical and biological properties. This review will begin with an introduction to nanomaterials and its associated considerations that should be taken into account. Next, the role of nanobioceramics achieving these considerations will be discussed. An overview of the current form of nanobioceramics being developed will be provided, concluding with an outlook of nanobioceramics for the healthcare industry.