Nanotechnology and orthopedics: a personal perspective.
Bone is a nanocomposite material comprised of hierarchically arranged collagen fibrils, hydroxyapatite and proteoglycans in the nanometer scale. Cells are accustomed to interact with nanostructures, thus providing the cells with a natural bone-like environment that potentially enhance bone tissue regeneration/repair. In this direction, nanotechnology provides opportunities to fabricate as well as explore novel properties and phenomena of functional materials, devices, and systems at the nanometer-length scale. Recent studies have provided significant insights into the influence of topographical features in regulating cell behavior. Topographical features provide essential chemical and physical cues that cells can recognize and elicit desired cellular functions including preferential adhesion, migration, proliferation, and expression of specific cell phenotype to bring desired effects. The current article will address some of the nanotechnology implications in addressing issues related to orthopedic implants performance and tissue engineering approach to bone repair/regeneration.
Laurencin
Cato T
CT
Dean, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030-3800, USA.|Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.|Department of Chemical, Materials and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06269-3222, USA.
Kumbar
Sangamesh G
SG
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.|Department of Chemical, Materials and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06269-3222, USA.
Nukavarapu
Syam Prasad
SP
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.|Department of Chemical, Materials and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT 06269-3222, USA.
D018786:Bone Substitutes / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000639:trends*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000639:trends*
D018786:Bone Substitutes