Variation in properties of bioactive glasses after surface modification

Abstract

Surface modification is one of the most effective ways to improve properties of biomaterials for specific applications in medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, and biotechnology. The surface properties of biomaterials play a significant role in the interaction with the surrounding tissues. This chapter is mainly focused on bioactive silicate glasses, in the following three aspects: (1) ion doping glass, (2) covalent modification of a bioactive glass's surfaces by silanes, and (3) biological surface functionalization of bioactive glass. The incorporation of various ions in the structure of bioactive glasses can improve their bioactivity, stimulating effects on osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and antibacterial activity. The goal of covalent modification by silanes is to improve the interaction with the surrounding bone tissue, to enhance dispersion stability of inorganic particles in various liquids, or to act as anchors for the immobilization of drugs. Biological functionalization of bioactive glasses can improve their bone integration.