Integrating Conductive Biomaterials with Electrical Stimulation to Improve Bone Regeneration

Abstract: Bone regeneration remains a critical challenge for orthopedic scaffolds. This review explores the synergistic contribution of conductive biomaterials with electrical stimulation as a strategy to improve bone scaffold efficacy. Bone scaffolds aim to aid in the regeneration and repair of bone tissue by creating an environment that can support and direct the healing tissue. Studies have shown that electrically conducive scaffolds with external electrical stimulation have resulted in improved bone growth compared to nonconductive scaffolds. Understanding how to optimally fabricate a scaffold utilizing these properties will result in more effective bone scaffolds. This article summarizes the synergistic potentiality of conductive biomaterials, and electrical stimulation for bone tissue engineering application, and necessity of its future research. Lay Summary: Bone regeneration remains a challenging task in orthopaedic medicine. This review elaborates the inventive approach of synergistic contribution of conductive biomaterials and electrical stimulation in order to improve bone repair and regeneration. Conductive scaffolds exhibit bone-like natural conductivity and in the presence of electrical signals, augment cell growth and bone regeneration. Materials such as conductive polymer and nanomaterials are biocompatible, which promote attachment and differentiation of cells. Moreover, electrical stimulation amplifies these effects and thereby further supports bone repair. Although, challenges associated with toxicity and safe electrical parameters exist, ongoing research focuses on further improving those methods. This synergy holds great promise for treating complex bone injuries, offering hope for earlier recovery and quality of life for patients.