Nearly 2-2.5 million bone grafting procedures are performed annually worldwide, with a cost greater than $2.5 billion (2016) and it is expected to increase at 5.5% annually by 2024, mainly due to increased life expectancy. Traditionally, bone grafts have been used to restore damaged bone. As such, autologous or allogeneic bone transplants have serious disadvantages, the field of bone tissue engineering is growing fast.
The project BioBon3D will develop 3D nanocomposite scaffolds, mimicking structurally and morphologically the native extracellular matrix, with suitable porosity and mechanical properties to promote the regeneration of damaged bone. The aim of the project is to develop a functional biomimetic composite scaffold which compromise pore structure and mechanical stiffness in order to have an optimum environment to enhance and accelerate osteogenesis and angiogenesis, resulting in:
(a) Enhancement of research, innovation and technological development with the creation of a unique 3D scaffold for bone tissue engineering and the acquired know-how.
(b) Economic benefits that will arise for the health and insurance systems through the effective treatment of bone defects, which will increase health quality and reduce the time of absence from work.
(c) Upgrading of the services, offered by the health system, through the new knowledge.
(d) Benefits for the higher education sector through the cooperation of young scientists with noteworthy companies in the specific area.
