Calcium Phosphate-Silk Fibroin Composites: Bone Cement and Beyond

Abstract

Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) are promising substitute materials for current nonbiodegradable poly(methyl methacrylate)-based bone cements due to their outstanding biocompatibility, biodegradability, and osteoconductivity. However, the applications of calcium phosphates (CaPs) are relatively limited due to the inferior mechanical strength. Silk fibroin (SF), a natural fibrous protein that originated from silkworm or spider which has good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties, has been used to reinforce the mechanical properties and improve the performance of CPCs. In addition to bone cement, CaP-SF composites have also been used as bone-repairing materials and carrier systems. In this chapter, we aim to provide a brief overview of recent progress in the use of CaP-SF composites as bone cement and for other purposes. The properties, processing techniques, and applications of CaPs and SF are first introduced, and the emerging challenges for CPCs are also discussed. Then the application of CaP-SFs as reinforced bone cements as well as the reinforcing mechanisms is reviewed. Finally, other applications of CaP-SF composites in bone tissue engineering are also discussed. We also provide our perspectives on the future development of CaP-SF composites for clinical applications.