Nanoclay-Engineered Scaffolds for the Controlled Delivery of Biomolecules in Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

Regenerative medicine combines biomaterials, cells, scaffolds, and bioactive agents via modern technologies to aid in the reconstruction and repair of damaged tissues. Among these, nanoclay scaffolds have demonstrated unique advantages in facilitating the delivery of therapeutic agents. This review investigates the structural and physicochemical features of various nanoclays—such as laponite, montmorillonite, and halloysite—that improve the mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and adjustable release properties when incorporated into polymeric scaffolds. Nanoclays encapsulated in scaffolds protect and facilitate the long-term release of bioactive substances, such as growth factors, extracellular vesicles, and nucleic acids, thereby promoting tissue healing processes such as angiogenesis, osteogenesis, and stem cell recruitment and differentiation. Furthermore, recent developments in hydrogels, microspheres, and 3D-printed scaffolds containing nanoclays have emphasized their performance in preclinical models. Despite their potential, challenges with scalability, long-term safety, and exact control of release still remain. Overall, scaffolds based on nanoclays represent a versatile and multipurpose approach to regenerative therapies, bridging nanotechnology and biomedical engineering for future clinical uses.