Research progress in degradable metal-based multifunctional scaffolds for bone tissue engineering

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of orthopedic-related diseases necessitates the development of effective orthopedic implants. Conventional metal scaffolds used in orthopedic devices have limitations such as poor biocompatibility and the need for a second surgery to remove the scaffold. Degradable metal-based scaffolds, including metal-based scaffolds and multifunctional scaffolds doped with metal elements, are a rapidly developing tissue engineering strategy aimed at utilizing the mechanical and biological properties of metal elements to create a support structure that matches the complex bone regeneration environment. Repairing bone defects involves the regeneration of various tissues, and incomplete repair can negatively affect bone function and overall recovery. Therefore, combining metal-based degradable materials with other active components has great potential for enhancing the versatility and clinical applications of scaffolds. Multifunctional scaffolds doped with metal elements have better biocompatibility, osteoinductivity, biodegradability, matching mechanical, and microenvironmental adjustment capabilities. Moreover, these metal-doped scaffolds possess the advantages of controlled release of metal ions, multifunctionality, and faster degradation. This review focuses on the materials and techniques used for constructing degradable metal-based scaffolds. Furthermore, this study discussed the potential for designing and constructing multifunctional biodegradable metal-based scaffolds doped with metal elements by integrating multiple strategies.