Porous Biocomposites for Functional Tissue Interface and Regenerative Engineering

Abstract

Porous polymer-ceramic composites have progressed from traditional bone regeneration roles into multifunctional platforms supporting vascularized soft-tissue repair, biosensing, and drug delivery. These systems enable regeneration across composite biological interfaces involving both soft and hard tissues, such as the enthesis and osteochondral junction, by integrating bioactive ceramics with flexible polymers. This synergy provides modular, tunable platforms that replicate tissue gradients and promote vascularization for sustained function. This chapter elucidates the expanding role of bioceramics beyond osteoconductivity toward immunomodulation, neurogenesis, and soft-tissue remodeling. It examines extracellular matrix biology, the hierarchical design of soft-hard tissue interfaces, and the critical influence of scaffold porosity on cellular infiltration and angiogenesis. Advances in hierarchical porosity, biochemical signaling, and stimuli-responsive architectures enable these materials to replicate native tissue interfaces such as the enthesis and osteochondral junction. Modern fabrication techniques, including electrospinning, freeze-drying, and additive manufacturing, have expanded their capabilities, allowing fine control over pore architecture, degradation, and multimodal functionality. Additionally, self-healing ceramic-polymer composites offer solutions to scaffold durability under physiological stresses. Emerging innovations such as self-healing scaffolds and MXene-based electroactive nanofibers position these composites at the forefront of regenerative medicine. This chapter consolidates key concepts, design strategies, applications, and translational challenges, underscoring the potential of porous bioceramic-polymer hybrids in advancing next-generation personalized therapies.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

2D materials; biocomposites; Bioprinting; vascularization; wound healing

International Standard Book Number (ISBN)

978-044330131-5;978-044330130-8

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2026

Link to Full Text

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