16 - Hydroxyapatite and tissue engineering

Abstract

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is an essential element required for tissue regeneration of various organs. Different variety of HA have been used for a long time. The era of HA in tissue regenerative field dates back to mid of 20th century when bioceramics were used as filling biomaterial to the bone tissue defects. Calcium phosphate materials have been used in field of chemistry, geology, biology, and medicine for centuries. Emerging approaches have made the dreams of clinicians to realize the use of different form of HA for various regenerative purposes both in vitro and in vivo. Biomaterials scaffold is one the main components required for tissue regeneration. The nanostructured biomaterials are of great interest in synthetic grafts, both injectable and controlled setting, so that such composites will reinforce the strength of nanomaterials. Extensive research is being carried out for tissue regeneration using nanotechnology. The novel technology has made many dreams come true for the researchers and clinicians. On the basis of the extensive literature existing on HA since 1950 in relation to its properties, composition, production, functions, and its uses, this chapter widely highlights the landmark studies on HA functions and its success at laboratory or clinical sciences with changing development in the perceptive of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Tissue engineering is a rapid growing field that pursues to repair or regenerate the damaged tissue or diseased organ. In this aspect, HA has a promising role in regenerative science since the beginning of the history. This chapter gives comprehensive approach into the history, uses, and functions with changing trends in the use of HA for tissue regeneration. In this chapter, we will discuss tissue engineering with special reference to HA and its forms.