Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
The functionalization of the system can also be performed using metal nanoparticles such as gold,
copper, and silver. These systems can act as therapeutic agents directly or carry biologically active
molecules. An indication of use of these systems in dentistry is the treatment of head and neck
tumors that needs controlled release of drugs at specific sites
[97
99]
. Bonici et al. (2012)
synthesized and characterized bioactive glasses functionalized with Cu nanoparticles and organic
molecules for use in drug delivery systems
[99]
.
Recent decades have seen the development of regenerative therapies based on stem cells and
molecular factors. Tissue regeneration is oriented by stimulus and regulatory factors such as differ-
ent growth factors and extracellular matrix of the molecular factors that promote specific responses
to the target cells.
As mentioned above, the bioactive glass because of its bioactivity has been responsible for
increasing the proliferation and differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells. Understanding the role of
growth factors, their mechanisms of action, and molecular signaling pathways suggest the way
stem cells could be used as regenerative therapeutics in dentistry.
Bioactive glasses at the nanoscale are emerging as a powerful approach of last generation of
bioactive materials for applications in dentistry. There are substantial advantages of such systems
compared with the conventional scale, allowing the use of these materials in more sophisticated
applications.
15.9
Conclusions
The use of nanotechnology in tissue engineering expands continuously, but pragmatic challenges
have hampered the clinical use of emerging nanobiomaterials. Many research groups are active in
this area to increase the versatility of this technology. On the other hand, the increase in the devel-
opment of new devices in the dental field and its regenerative applications require a thorough
analysis of how they can be assessed before clinical use in humans. The progress in dental therapy
using nanobiomaterials strongly depends on the selection of a preclinical model suitable to evaluate
the safety and efficacy of therapies in humans.
The scientific challenge of tissue engineering involves the understanding of cellular mechanisms
as well as the development of appropriate biomaterials that act as supports for adhesion, migration,
and cell proliferation.
Bioactive glass nanoparticles have shown advantages over (micron-sized) conventional glass
due to their large surface area and increased bioactivity. These nanomaterials inspired researchers
to investigate new routes of synthesis and applications in tissue engineering. However, many tests
are still needed in vivo to complete clinical validation of these materials.
Acknowledgments
The authors are grateful to Rodolfo Cunha Santos for his contribution to the preparation of figures and authors
are also grateful to CNPq for the financial support.
