Effect of Bioactive Glasses on Angiogenesis: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Evidences

The incorporation of bioactive glass into bone tissue-engineered scaffolds can be widely beneficial based on emerging evidence in the literature about the angiogenic potential of this material, particularly 45S5 Bioglass (R). This article reviews the literature discussing in vitro studies which have demonstrated that increases in angiogenic indicators have been achieved through both direct and indirect contact of relevant cells with 45S5 Bioglass (R) particles or with their dissolution products. A few available in vivo studies confirming the ability of bioactive glass, incorporated into scaffolds, to stimulate neovascularization are also discussed. Suggestions for further research are given, highlighting the need for specific investigations designed to assess the effect of particular ion dissolution products from bioactive glasses and their relative concentration on angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo.