Metallic biomaterials in biopharmaceuticals and biomedical applications

Abstract

Metallic biomaterials have captured a lot of interest because of their distinct mechanical characteristics, biocompatibility, and usefulness in biopharmaceutical and biomedical applications. These materials are essential for the creation of several medical equipment and treatment strategies. They include titanium, cobalt-chromium alloys, stainless steel, and biodegradable metals. Metallic implants in orthopaedics offer strong support for bone mending and joint replacement; they have outstanding load-bearing capacity and are resistant to corrosion and wear. Metallic heart valves and stents provide structural integrity and functionality in cardiovascular applications, enhancing patient outcomes in heart valve and coronary artery illness. Metallic biomaterials are manufactured systems created to give biological tissues intrinsic support, and they are commonly employed in stents, dental implants, orthopaedic fixations, and joint replacements. Increased implant-related issues are linked to higher biomaterial utilization because of weak implant integration, infections, mechanical instability, necrosis, and inflammation, as well as ensuring extended patient care, discomfort, and functional loss. The performance and integration of metallic biomaterials inside biological systems have been improved by developments in surface modification techniques, such as coating with biocompatible polymers and drug-eluting technology. Researchers are exploring the possibility of using biodegradable metals that eventually dissolve within the body reducing the risk of long-term issues and repeat procedures. Metallic nanoparticles have also demonstrated potential in increasing therapeutic efficacy, minimizing systemic adverse effects, and selectively targeting disease locations when included in drug delivery systems. The main metallic biomaterials will be briefly discussed in this review, along with the most important established and new methods for modification, which are used to enhance the durability, flexibility, biointegration, and of the biometals, and boost their suitability for 3D printing.