Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have introduced an innovative “bone bandage” that not only regenerates damaged bones in mice but also holds potential for transforming bone regeneration in humans. This biomimetic scaffold, developed by KAIST scientists, combines piezoelectric materials with the growth-promoting properties of hydroxyapatite (HAp), a mineral found in bones.
The scaffold is a freestanding structure that generates electrical signals when pressure is applied, thanks to the integration of piezoelectric materials and HAp. While piezoelectric materials have been known for their role in bone repair by generating electric charges in response to mechanical stress, the addition of HAp takes this concept to a new level.
Hydroxyapatite, known for enhancing bone strength and regeneration, was combined with a polymer film, polyvinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoro ethylene (P(VDF-TrFE)), to create the scaffold with piezoelectric properties and a surface mimicking the body’s extracellular matrix.
Comparisons between scaffolds with and without HAp in simulated environments showed promising results. The HAp scaffolds exhibited higher cell attachment (10-15%) and cell proliferation (20-30%) after five days of culture. Moreover, osteogenesis levels, the bone formation process, were approximately 30-40% higher on the HAp scaffolds.
In a significant test, the researchers implanted HAp/P(VDF-TrFE) scaffolds in mice with skull bone defects, leaving them in place for six weeks. The mice with HAp scaffolds showed significantly enhanced bone regeneration compared to control groups, with no observed adverse events.
Seungbum Hong, one of the study’s corresponding authors, expressed excitement about the development, stating, “We have developed a HAp-based piezoelectric composite material that can act like a ‘bone bandage’ through its ability to accelerate bone regeneration.” This research marks a significant advancement in regenerative medicine, exploring the potential impact of piezoelectricity and surface properties on bone regeneration.
