Nano bioceramics: Properties, applications, hydroxyapatite, nanohydroxyapatite and drug delivery

Bone is the second organ of the human body that has the most transplants. The concept of bone repair has evolved over the past five decades and is known as the third generation of biomaterials. During the integration of nanotechnology with bioceramics, an emerging research field called nanobioceramics has been born within the third generation of biomaterials. Due to the chemical similarity with the mineral content of human bone, nanobioceramics are included in the definition of a new generation of biomaterials whose main purpose is to create a microenvironment to improve cellular responses leading to osteogenesis. Hydroxyapatite is a member of the calcium phosphate family. This substance, which is a bioactive and biocompatible compound, is considered the main mineral component of bone tissue. Due to the chemical and structural similarity of this compound with bone, it is widely used in the field of bone tissue repair and dental and orthopedic applications. Many of the basic properties of hydroxyapatite can be improved and improved by changing the scale of its particles to nanoparticles. Therefore, in recent years, various methods for the synthesis of nanohydroxyapatite have been reported. Using different characterization methods, the quality of synthesized nanostructures can be checked. In addition to bone-related fields, nanohydroxyapatite is also used as a carrier in the transfer of various materials, including drugs, vitamins, and proteins. In this article, in modern times, advances in the field of biomedical research focusing on the use of bioceramics in the treatment of various diseases, the function of vital organs, and tissue engineering have brought new hopes to regenerative medicine. Various methods are being investigated to synthesize bioceramic materials using natural and synthetic materials. There are several challenges to enable cost-effective material synthesis and minimize the rejection of bioceramics in biological systems. One of the major challenges in incorporating foreign materials into body systems is to improve their acceptance and reduce their rejection by humans and other organisms by studying their immune responses. When developing biocompatible ceramic materials, the mechanical and chemical properties of the ceramic material are one of the most important parameters for their acceptance in humans. The evaluation criteria of mechanical, chemical and biological properties of bioceramics using various existing approaches play a crucial role in validating the use of bioceramics. State-of-the-art techniques for synthesis and evaluation of bioceramic properties can improve their biomedical applications.