Research progress on applications of bioactive glass matrix composites in bone repair

Bioactive glass (BG) is a biomaterial capable of repairing, replacing, and regenerating body tissues, possessing the ability to form bonds between tissues and materials. The degradation products of BG can promote the generation of growth factors, proliferation of cells, gene expressions of osteoblasts, and regeneration and repair of bone tissues. With the continuous development of materials science and technology, more and more evidence has shown the potential of BG in the development of bone materials. This article not only reviews preparation methods of BG (containing BG particles, BG porous materials, and BG-based composite hydrogels) and BG-based composites (such as BG/polymer, biometallic ions-doped BG, and non-metallic/BG), but also elaborates on their regenerative potential and comprehensive applications in bone repair. Meanwhile, the shortcomings of BG are pointed out, and the future application prospects of BG are also discussed, providing valuable guidance on the effective improvement of the BG performance for bone clinical applications in future.