An overview of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based biomaterials for bone tissue engineering

Int J Mol Sci. 2014 Feb 28;15(3):3640-59. doi: 10.3390/ijms15033640.

Abstract

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) has attracted considerable interest as a base material for biomedical applications due to its: (i) biocompatibility; (ii) tailored biodegradation rate (depending on the molecular weight and copolymer ratio); (iii) approval for clinical use in humans by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); (iv) potential to modify surface properties to provide better interaction with biological materials; and (v) suitability for export to countries and cultures where implantation of animal-derived products is unpopular. This paper critically reviews the scientific challenge of manufacturing PLGA-based materials with suitable properties and shapes for specific biomedical applications, with special emphasis on bone tissue engineering. The analysis of the state of the art in the field reveals the presence of current innovative techniques for scaffolds and material manufacturing that are currently opening the way to prepare biomimetic PLGA substrates able to modulate cell interaction for improved substitution, restoration, or enhancement of bone tissue function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemical synthesis
  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Bone Regeneration
  • Bone and Bones / cytology
  • Bone and Bones / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Lactic Acid / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Polyglycolic Acid / chemistry*
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Tissue Engineering / methods*
  • Tissue Scaffolds / chemistry

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polyglycolic Acid
  • Lactic Acid