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Several in vitro and in vivo experiments have shown that nanostructured materials, which mimic the nanometer topography of the native tissues, improve biocompatible responses, and result in better tissue integration in medical implants. Understanding various aspects of nanotopography is extremely important for better designs of these devices. In this review paper, recent progress in the fabrication, characterization, biological responses, and application of nanostructured materials are discussed. Specifically, materials such as ceramics and polymers used to manufacture nanostructured surfaces are briefly introduced. Techniques for fabrication and characterization of nanostructured materials are also explored. Cellular responses such as morphology, alignment, adhesion, proliferation, and profiles of gene expression of various cell types after their exposure to nanofeatured materials are particularly reviewed. Finally, the paper briefly discusses some application of nanostructured materials including those in biosensor and tissue engineering fields.

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Traumatic fractures cause structurally unstable sites due to severe bone loss. Such fractures generate a high yield of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can lead to oxidative stress. Excessive and prolonged ROS activity impedes osteoblast differentiation and instigates long healing times. Stimulation of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD1), are crucial to reduce ROS, stimulate osteogenesis, and strengthen collagen and mineral formation. Yet, no current fixative devices have shown an ability to enhance collagen matrix formation through antioxidant expression. This study reports plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition based amorphous silicon oxynitride (Si(ON)x) as a potential new fracture healing biomaterial that adheres well to the implant surface, releases Si(+4) to enhance osteogenesis, and forms a surface hydroxyapatite for collagen mineral attachment. These materials provide a sustained release of Si(+4) in physiological environment for extended times. The dissolution rate partially depends on the film chemistry and can be controlled by varying O/N ratio. The presence of Si(+4) enhances SOD1, which stimulates other osteogenic markers downstream and leads to rapid mineral formation. In vivo testing using a rat critical-sized calvarial defect model shows a more rapid bone-regeneration for these biomaterials as compared to control groups, that implies the clinical significance of the presented biomaterial.

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