Small molecule delivery through nanofibrous scaffolds for musculoskeletal regenerative engineering

Musculoskeletal regenerative engineering approach using small bioactive molecules in conjunction with advanced materials has emerged as a highly promising strategy for musculoskeletal repair and regeneration. Advanced biomaterials technologies have revealed nanofiber-based scaffolds for musculoskeletal tissue engineering as vehicles for the controlled delivery of small molecule drugs. This review article highlights recent advances in nanofiber-based delivery of small molecules for musculoskeletal regenerative engineering. The article concludes with perspectives on the challenges and future directions. From the Clinical Editor: In this review, advances in nanofiber-based delivery of small molecules are discussed from the standpoint of their potential role in musculoskeletal regenerative engineering, highlighting both future directions and current challenges. (C) 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.