Translational development of tailored implants based on new processing approaches and surface modifications for tissue regeneration

Biomaterials are the base components of implants. The field of biomaterials has recently grown rapidly and will continue to emerge and expand the boundaries of the field of tissue engineering. The geometry of both biomaterials and implants plays an important role in their mechanical performance. The optimization of the geometry can be achieved using up-to-data in-silico methods. Certain challenges are associated with the application of such innovative biomaterials, such as the lack of sustainable and smart approaches for the synthesis and their functionalization. Furthermore, the understanding of cell–biomaterial interactions is an important aspect that needs to be explored. Further investigations on pre-clinical performance to learn about cell behavior and tissue regeneration are needed, along with development of new biomaterials.

Although a broad number of medical devices for soft and hard tissue regeneration are already on the market, fundamental understanding of biomaterials and the geometry of the biomaterials and implants and their biological aspects are still unclear. It is of great importance to get deeper insights into the material and geometrical parameters that induce the desired cell and tissue responses and tissue regeneration. Thus, we still need more and deeper insights into new biomaterial synthesis processes, their implementation in certain medical implants and the associated biological and medical responses.

In this special issue we invite researchers to submit studies describing new biomaterial aspects focusing on innovative materials, processing techniques including additive manufacturing and their relation to the healing processes of soft and hard tissues. Contributions in the form of reviews and/or original papers are very welcome.