Nanoparticles combined with growth factors: recent progress and applications

Increasing attention has been focused on the applications of nanoparticles combined with growth factors (NPs/GFs) due to the substantial functions of GFs in regenerative medicine and disease treatments. Recently, redesigning materials and structures of the advanced modified NPs/GFs has provided improved effects compared with those of the original models. NPs/GFs with ideal biological functions are designed to fulfill desired goals. However, NPs/GFs need to overcome numerous obstacles in vivo, particularly with oral administration. This article reviews the recent studies of NPs/GFs with a focus on materials, structures, functions and obstacles and thus, highlights the existing challenges and perspectives.