Abstract
Applications of natural hyaluronic acid (HYH) for the fabrication of organic-inorganic composites for biomedical applications are described. Such composites combine unique functional properties of HYH with functional properties of hydroxyapatite, various bioceramics, bioglass, biocements, metal nanoparticles, and quantum dots. Functional properties of advanced composite gels, scaffold materials, cements, particles, films, and coatings are described. Benefiting from the synergy of properties of HYH and inorganic components, advanced composites provide a platform for the development of new drug delivery materials. Many advanced properties of composites are attributed to the ability of HYH to promote biomineralization. Properties of HYH are a key factor for the development of colloidal and electrochemical methods for the fabrication of films and protective coatings for surface modification of biomedical implants and the development of advanced biosensors. Overcoming limitations of traditional materials, HYH is used as a biocompatible capping, dispersing, and structure-directing agent for the synthesis of functional inorganic materials and composites. Gel-forming properties of HYH enable a facile and straightforward approach to the fabrication of antimicrobial materials in different forms. Of particular interest are applications of HYH for the fabrication of biosensors. This review summarizes manufacturing strategies and mechanisms and outlines future trends in the development of functional biocomposites.
Highlights
Hyaluronic acid (HYH) is a natural polymer that plays a vital role in many physiological processes in humans and other organisms [1,2]
The addition of HAP to the HYH gels improved the mechanical properties of the composite gels and reduced the water uptake, leading to a lower swelling capacity compared with the pure HYH gels [36,37,38,39]
The addition of HYH allowed for the formation of much more new bone with highly dense mineralization compared with HAP cements [90]. Another interesting strategy was based on the use of composite HYH–alginate microbeads, which were incorporated into the Calcium phosphate cements (CPCs) matrix and facilitated the cement’s injectability [91]
Summary
Hyaluronic acid (HYH) is a natural polymer that plays a vital role in many physiological processes in humans and other organisms [1,2]. There are excellent reviews describing HYH applications for controlled drug delivery [9], treatment of inflammatory skin and joint diseases [10], wound dressing [11], fabrication of hydrogels for tissue engineering [12,13], and other applications in orthopedics, oncology, ophthalmology, and dermatology [14]. HYH is of significant interest for the fabrication of organic-inorganic composites for biomedical applications. Many natural materials, such as bone, are organic-inorganic nanocomposites. This review covers advanced functional materials for biomedical applications, such as scaffolds, gels, Materials 2021, 14, 4982 biocements, and materials for wound dressing Another important area covered by this review is the application of HYH for the fabrication of composite films by electrochemical and colloidal methods. The unique microstructure and functional properties of HYH-based composites are key factors for new emerging developments in various fields of advanced biomaterials
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
