Nanoparticle-based bioactive agent release systems for bone and cartilage tissue engineering

Abstract

a b s t r a c tThe inability to deliver bioactive agents locally in a transient but sustained manner is one of the challenges on the development of bio-functionalized scaffolds for tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine. The mode of release is especially relevant when the bioactive agent is a growth factor (GF), because the dose and the spatiotemporal release of such agents at the site of injury are crucial to achieve a successful outcome. Strategies that combine scaffolds and drug delivery systems have the potential to provide more effective tissue regeneration relative to current therapies. Nanoparticles (NPs) can protect the bioactive agents, control its profile, decrease the occurrence and severity of side effects and deliver the bioactive agent to the target cells maximizing its effect. Scaffolds containing NPs loaded with bioactive agents can be used for their local delivery, enabling site-specific pharmacological effects such as the induction of cell proliferation and differentiation, and, consequently, neo-tissue formation. This review aims to describe the concept of combining NPs with scaffolds, and the current efforts aiming to develop highly multi-functional bioactive agent release systems, with the emphasis on their application in TE of connective tissues.

Local delivery of controlled-release simvastatin to improve the biocompatibility of polyethylene terephthalate artificial ligaments for reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament

“…Several techniques have been used to modify the surface of synthetic biomaterial scaffolds such as plasma treatment, chemical methods, UV irradiation, and co-electrospinning of active agents and polymers. 28 Nanoparticle-based coating is also an effective strategy that can increase wettability, roughness, and the effective surface area of materials. Nano-microspheres are probably the largest category of nanosized particles used in the drug delivery field.…”

Polysaccharide‐Based Controlled Release Systems for Therapeutics Delivery and Tissue Engineering: From Bench to Bedside

“…Polysaccharide‐based micro‐/nanoparticles provide protection to the protein‐based growth factors, offering a versatile release profile in a controlled manner while reducing the risk of having site effects, and are able to deliver the bioactive agent to target cells. In addition, stimulation can form different types of protein cargos, and the cellular signaling will then influence the cellular process, such as attachment, proliferation, migration, and differentiation, demonstrating the potential for applying these strategies for promoting tissue regeneration …”

Biodegradable polymers suitable for tissue engineering and drug delivery systems

“…Furthermore, the success of regenerative treatments has been encouraged by growth factors [52] and other biological agents encapsulated into controlled release systems [53].…”