Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
et al.
2001
). In-depth description for methods of nanostructure production for bio-
logical applications may be found in the later chapters.
4.4
Nanobioengineering
Nanomaterials could be the key component of cellular environment engineering in
various applications ranging from in vitro models to practical clinical purposes.
Nanofabricated materials are used in tissue engineering, neuroprostheses, orthope-
dic implants, and restorative medicine. For example, crystalline nanostructured
(about 15 nm) hydroxyapatite coatings for dental and orthopedic implants are now
commercially available (Sinha et al.
2002
). These coatings with high surface area
provide better osteogenic properties of the implants and signifi cantly improve the
success rate of such implants. Self-assembly on the 2D surface is a promising tech-
nique for fabrication of new generation of biocompatible synthetic biomaterials,
bioselective surfaces, and even biosensors (Chaki and Vijayamohanan
2002
) . Self-
assembling 3D scaffold systems also have a great potential to restore, maintain, or
improve the tissue function. Although nanobioengineering discipline is still in its
infancy, it offers potential promises for nanomaterial-based control of cell functions
and responses (Zhang et al.
2002
). However, extensive research effort and testing of
these nanoscale systems would be required before the actual use in treatment of
pathological conditions and regeneration medicine can be effi ciently implemented.
Rapidly growing area of nanotechnology supplies biologists and biomedical
engineers with new tools to control living cell functions and behavior via precise
design of cellular environment at nanoscale level. While the fundamental knowl-
edge is still being accumulated on how cells interact with their natural or artifi cial
milieu, the molecular mechanisms and processes that govern the cell fate in the
nanoworld remain to be elucidated. It appears clear that concentrated research effort
is certainly directed to the area of nanoscale bioengineering and biosciences.
Integration of nanomaterials with biotechnology to optimize extracellular environ-
ment may eventually lead to new therapies, regenerative medicine strategies, and
diagnostic and bioanalytical methods.
Acknowledgments
This work was supported in part by the grant from Offi ce of Navy Research
(N00014-06-1-0100) and a NIH grant (CA113975).
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