| Abstract Scope |
Hydroxyapatite (HA), a calcium phosphate similar to human bone mineral, has long been used as a bone graft for its bioactivity, osteoconductivity, and biocompatibility. Recent advances highlight nanohydroxyapatite (nHA), which offers a higher surface area, improving bioactivity and bone integration. nHA is often incorporated into hydrogels, creating biomimetic matrices for bone regeneration. Research also focuses on tailoring scaffold porosity, especially nanopores, to enhance protein adsorption and stimulate osteoblast differentiation. Natural HA from sources like crab shells, and bovine bones presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative. Innovative strategies include hybrid scaffolds using biopolymers such as keratin, crosslinked with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, producing porous, cytocompatible structures with suitable mechanical properties for alveolar bone repair. Additive manufacturing, including 3D printing, allows precise customization of HA-based scaffolds. Additionally, doping HA with ions like Cu²⁺ and Sr²⁺ enhances antimicrobial, osteogenic, and mechanical properties. These biomimetic composites emulate natural bone structure and function, advancing synthetic bone graft development. |