Natural-based Nanocomposites for Bone Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine: A Review

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine has been providing exciting
technologies for the development of functional substitutes aimed to repair and
regenerate damaged tissues and organs. Inspired by the hierarchical nature of
bone, nanostructured biomaterials are gaining a singular attention for tissue
engineering, owing their ability to promote cell adhesion and proliferation, and
hence new bone growth, compared with conventional microsized materials.
Of particular interest are nanocomposites involving biopolymeric matrices and
bioactive nanosized fi llers. Biodegradability, high mechanical strength, and
osteointegration and formation of ligamentous tissue are properties required
for such materials. Biopolymers are advantageous due to their similarities with
extracellular matrices, specifi c degradation rates, and good biological performance.
By its turn, calcium phosphates possess favorable osteoconductivity,
resorbability, and biocompatibility. Herein, an overview on the available natural
polymer/calcium phosphate nanocomposite materials, their design, and properties
is presented. Scaffolds, hydrogels, and fi bers as biomimetic strategies for
tissue engineering, and processing methodologies are described. The specifi c
biological properties of the nanocomposites, as well as their interaction with
cells, including the use of bioactive molecules, are highlighted. Nanocomposites
in vivo studies using animal models are also reviewed and discussed.