The effect of extracellular matrix remodeling on material-based strategies for bone regeneration: Review article

Bone defects may cause by a number of acquired or inherited disorders. Tissue engineering strategies aim to induce functional bone regeneration through incorporating biomaterials and cells, which can potentially provide an efficient and personalized treatment option with reduced risk of rejection. Designing the appropriate scaffold for each tissue is critical because of the microenvironment where cell growth can occur. Various types of natural and synthetic polymers were studied in combination with active ceramic and metallic materials to form osteoconductive scaffolds. The purpose of producing composite scaffolds was to obtain a supporting structure with appropriate mechanical and surface properties to mimic the bone extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM is a dynamic bio-environment that continuously undergoes remodeling to control tissue homeostasis. This process is mediated by specific proteases such as metalloproteinases (MMPs) that play an essential role in ECM degradation. The ECM is involved in regulating cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and finally, the functional properties of the mature bone. Many substances have different effects on ECM, which in turn can be effective in bone regeneration. Imitation of ECM is one of the promising ways in designing materials for the bone regeneration. In this review, we investigated the effect of ECM remodeling on material-based strategies for bone regeneration.

Automated summary

Bone defects can be caused by acquired or inherited disorders. Tissue engineering strategies aim to regenerate functional bone by incorporating biomaterials and cells, providing a personalized treatment option with reduced rejection risk. The design of appropriate scaffolds is critical to create a microenvironment for cell growth. Various natural and synthetic polymers have been studied to form osteoconductive scaffolds with ceramic and metallic materials. Mimicking the bone extracellular matrix (ECM) is important for obtaining a supporting structure with suitable mechanical and surface properties. ECM remodeling plays a crucial role in regulating cell behavior and the functional properties of mature bone.