Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
of a blood vessel), which contribute to inflammation and neointimal formation
[125]. In contrast, nanosurface-modified stents improve endothelial and smooth
muscle cell interaction and consequently lower inflammation compared with
conventional stents [126, 127]. In short, because of their excellent bio-
integration, small particle size, high surface area and energy, and other unique
chemical/physical properties, nanomaterials may serve as improved substitutes
for artificial tissue/organ implant applications.
9.6
Conclusions and future trends
Because natural tissues/organs have hierarchical structures from the macro- or
micro- to nano-level, the introduction of nanostructured biomaterials to the
tissue engineering field has greatly enhanced the integration and growth of
natural tissue. Combined with the unique chemical and physical properties of
nanomaterials, nanotechnology continues to open tremendous opportunities for
biomedical applications. However, there are still numerous unresolved problems
in this research area, such as nanotube/particle toxicity and long-term influences
to the environment and human health. Moreover, extensive research is needed in
the continued design, synthesis and evaluation of highly complex or multi-
structured nanostructured devices. All in all, nanostructured biomaterials are
promising candidates as the next generation of artificial implants for numerous
tissue engineering applications.
9.7 References
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