Role of Nanoparticles and Nanocomposites in Bone Regeneration

Abstract

Bone regeneration is a complex process involving numerous cells like osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts; various pathways and signalling systems. Usually, human body heals the fractures and degenerations by itself. However, in certain cases like severe trauma, infections, carcinomas the self- repair abilities might get impeded. In such circumstances, bone regenerative materials are used. The commonly used materials include autografts, allografts, isografts, alloplasts etc. The advances in bone regenerative materials comprise of demineralized bone matrix xenograft, phytogenic, synthetic materials. The recent researches focus on polymer materials, tissue-engineered bones, nanoparticles etc. Nanoparticles and nanocomposites are gaining popularity due to its effectiveness in combination with tissue engineering process. Nanoparticles are available in the form of nanotubes, nanocrystals, nanoclusters, nanorods, nanofibers, nanofilms to be used for bone regeneration. Various nanoparticles like gold, silver, zinc, hydroxyapatite, titanium dioxide, calcium copper etc are found to have bone regenerative ability. So, the combination of these bone regenerative nanoparticles with compounds with additive effects could develop nanocomposites with synergistic effects in osteogenesis. Nanocomposites with potential benefits in osteogenesis natural, metal, synthetic and ceramic nanocomposites. This review focus on the potential effects of nanoparticles and nanocomposites on bone tissue and its possibility as a future tissue engineering tool for bone regeneration.