Calcium phosphate biomaterials for bone tissue engineering: Properties and relevance in bone repair

Abstract

Bone defects are common and are associated with a significant burden of disease threatening the health of many people around the globe. Since the last decade, data obtained from case studies have demonstrated that 20% of patients who experience an osteoporotic hip break are unable to endure the primary year after medical treatment. Many similar cases suggest that there is a huge requirement for better treatment of unhealthy and broken bones. Human bone comprises of about 70% of calcium phosphate (CaP) mineral, therefore CaPs are possible alternative materials to fix a broken bone. CaP is broadly utilized for bone fixation because of its bioactive properties like osteoinductivity, osteoconductivity, and biodegradability. Therefore, examination of these properties and the impact of their different affecting factors are crucial for balancing CaP during the fabrication procedure to maximally fulfill required clinical prerequisites. The aim of this chapter is to highlight the systems behind the CaP-assisted bone development in the initial phase, specifically as a biocompatible bone graft substitute. In this study, the latest developments in the biological properties of CaP biomaterials, including hydroxyapatite (HA), tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and biphasic CaP (BCP), have been summarized. Moreover, recent advances on how their properties are altered by different factors are reviewed. Finally, perspectives regarding future developments of CaP materials are provided.