Synergistic effects of Zn/Fe dual-additives on Ca5(PO4)2SiO4 bioceramics: Induced biomineralization of scaffolds with enhanced osteogenesis for bone tissue engineering

Abstract

The imperative need for bone defect repair has driven the pursuit of advanced bone tissue engineering scaffolds, which are perceived to have a transformative impact on clinical applications. However, the enhancement of biological performance, bioactivity of these materials, and efficiency of their synthesis remain enigmatic challenges. The integration of ZnO and Fe₂O₃ into the composition of calcium phosphate silicate (CPS) bioceramics has been previously established to substantially fortify their mechanical properties. Yet, the academic discourse on the amalgamation of Zn and Fe within bioceramic matrices is strikingly sparse, and the synergistic interplay between these elements on the sintering process and the ensuing biological attributes has scarcely been probed. In a pioneering effort to address this lacuna, a novel Zn/Fe-CPS bioceramic has been meticulously crafted with a dual additive approach, wherein the judicious balancing of Zn and Fe ratios has culminated in a material that boasts exceptional mechanical resilience, the propensity to induce apatite formation, and exhibits commendable degradation rates and biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo. Most notably, this material is expected to be an excellent bone repair scaffolds with comprehensive performance attributed to it enhanced biomineralization and osteogenic capabilities, as well as its promotion of angiogenesis.