Biomaterials in Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

Physiological regenerative system of human body is incapable of restoring the function when an injury exceeds its normal limits. Conventional methods previously being used for repair and rejuvenation of tissues had certain limitations that have brought the biomaterials to the forefront in the area of regenerative medicine. Biomaterials provide optimal support to the tissue during the process of healing and remodeling. Numerous classes of biomaterials are focused on specific applications; most prominent among them are polymers. Biomaterials are now being used in several areas such as fabrication, hematology and blood cell substitutes, tissue engineering, extracorporeal artificial organs, bone and vascular regeneration, stem cell differentiation and soft tissue repair. However, for the success of biomaterials in regenerative medicine , the focus should not only be on the physical, mechanical and chemical properties of the materials but also the fundamental principles of biological interactions and biocompatibility.