Researchers have developed a biomimetic scaffold that generates electrical signals upon the application of pressure by utilizing the unique osteogenic ability of hydroxyapatite (HAp). HAp is a basic calcium phosphate material found in bones and teeth.

The manufacturing process fuses HAp with a polymer film. The flexible and free-standing scaffold developed through this process demonstrated its remarkable potential for promoting bone regeneration through in-vitro and in-vivo experiments in rats. The team also identified the principles of bone regeneration that their scaffold is based on. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), they analyzed the electrical properties of the scaffold and evaluated the detailed surface properties related to cell shape and cell skeletal protein formation. They also investigated the effects of piezoelectricity and surface properties on the expression of growth factors.

The research not only suggests a new direction for designing biomaterials but is also significant in having explored the effects of piezoelectricity and surface properties on bone regeneration. (Image credit: KAIST)

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Topics:
Biomimetics Calcium Materials Medical Medical equipment and supplies Medical, health and wellness Metals Pressure Smart Patches and Bandages

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    This article first appeared in the April, 2024 issue of Medical Design Briefs Magazine.

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