Patterning Nanomaterials for the Delivery of Growth Factors for Tissue Repair/Regeneration

Abstract

Growth factors are proteins secreted by cells that regulate the cellular process like migration, proliferation, differentiation, and activation of other growth factors during tissue regeneration. So the introduction of growth factors can augment the healing ability of patients. However, their translation into clinical applications is imperfect due to their poor half-life, less effectiveness, low stability, and rapid inactivation by the components in physiological conditions. To exploit the effectiveness of growth factors, an extensive variety of nanomaterials have been developed to improve the regeneration process. Smart multifunctional nanomaterials have unique chemical properties and flexibility in design, which augment tissue regeneration by controlling how much, where, and when to release the growth factors. This chapter discusses detailed information about the different types of nanomaterials and the strategies to stimulate regeneration by delivery of growth factors. It also covers information about nanomaterial properties, including mechanical stability, biocompatibility, biological activity, and growth factor release properties. Additionally, nanomaterial applications in both pre-clinical and clinical trials for tissue regenerations are discussed. Finally, we discuss the next-generation nanomaterials, advanced delivery strategies, and future implications to enhance tissue repair and regeneration.