Recent advancements in polymer matrix nanocomposites for bone tissue engineering applications

Several polymer-based nanocomposites have been studied and used for tissue engineering applications in recent years. These biodegradable nanocomposites have proven advantageous for bone tissue cultivation and production. Materials such as polymers, metals, and ceramics are commonly used to fabricate biomaterials. Although some polymeric materials are biodegradable and bioactive in bone tissue engineering applications, they do not match the strength of the bone. On the other hand, metals come in various shapes and sizes, including screws, pins, plates, and stents. These metallic implants are mechanically strong and can temporarily support bones, joints, and teeth. They are neither absorbed/resorbed by the body nor transformed into bone. With metal implants, there is also a possibility of infection and secondary operations. In contrast, polymer nanocomposites have bioinertness, low chemical reactivity, biocompatibility, osseointegration, regeneration, and deposition of mineral components capability. They can mimic bones, joints, and teeth in orthopedic applications to repair and replace damaged or diseased tissues. This study reviews current research on bone regeneration technology and potential treatment options for bone tissue regeneration in specific bone abnormalities with nanocomposites. The incorporation of growth factors into nanocomposite scaffolds for osteogenesis and bone remodeling is also discussed.