Document Type : Commentary
Authors
1
Surgery and Trauma Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2
Cancer Epidemiology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3
Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA university of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. & Medical Biotechnology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
4
Toxicology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. & Biomaterials and Medicinal Chemistry Research Centre, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
5
Toxicology Research Center, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Bone has an inherent ability to regenerate; however, this capacity is often insufficient in cases of large, critical-sized, or complex defects caused by trauma, tumor removal, infection, or degenerative diseases. Traditional methods, including autografts, allografts, and xenografts, are limited by donor site issues, immune rejection, infection risks, and poor integration with the host tissue. Bone tissue engineering (BTE) has become a promising alternative, using stem cells, scaffolds, and bioactive substances to create a biomimetic environment that promotes osteogenesis and tissue regeneration. This study provides a comprehensive review of current strategies in BTE, emphasizing cell- and growth factor–based approaches, scaffold design, and nanocomposite systems, while critically discussing the major challenges and future perspectives for advancing the development of effective, translatable therapies for bone regeneration. Scaffolds provide a temporary three-dimensional extracellular matrix, guiding cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation while gradually degrading as new tissue forms. A wide range of materials, including natural and synthetic polymers, bioceramics, and bioactive glasses, has been explored. The integration of nanocomposites with bioactive fillers, such as nano-hydroxyapatite and graphene oxide, further enhances mechanical strength, osteoconductivity, and cellular interactions. Despite these advances, critical challenges remain, including achieving adequate vascularization, matching native bone mechanical properties, ensuring stable host integration, and mitigating inflammatory responses associated with polymer degradation.
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