Piezoelectric materials for tissue regeneration: A review

Abstract

The discovery of piezoelectricity, endogenous electric fields and transmembrane potentials in biological tissues has kindled research and the development of technologies using electrical stimulation for tissue regeneration. Piezoelectric materials generate electrical activity in response to deformations and allow for the delivery of an electrical stimulus without the need for an external power source. As a scaffold for tissue engineering, growing interest exists due to its potential of providing electrical stimulation to cells to promote tissue formation. In this review, we cover the discovery of piezoelectricity in biological tissues, its connection to streaming potentials, biological response to electrical stimulation and commonly used piezoelectric materials for tissue regeneration. This review summarizes their potential as a promising scaffold in the tissue engineering field.

Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular response to biophysical cues using synthetic biology approaches

“…In fact, piezoelectric materials are being widely adapted for use as scaffolds for tissue regeneration and repair applications and have even been shown to influence gene expression in the case of cartilaginous implants utilizing the piezoelectric polymer polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). 49,50 Fibroblasts grown on piezoelectrically-activated (presenting charge on surface) implants show enhanced migration, adhesion and secretion and the implants themselves showed higher fibrosis levels in rats in vivo, illustrating wound healing capabilities. 51 However, in order to elucidate the fundamental basis for the observed improved cellular function due to charge, synthetic biology techniques can be employed.…”

Comprehensive biocompatibility of nontoxic and high-output flexible energy harvester using lead-free piezoceramic thin film

“…[21][22][23][26][27][28][29][30]72,73,78 To further directly inspect the chronological/clinical effects of bioimplanted piezoceramics, we are currently conducting biochemistry studies and long-term epidemiologic investigations using canine/porcine models.…”

“…18,24 However, these highly localized and short-term approaches cannot ensure actual biocompatibility over long-term periods, with genotoxic, metabolic, and clinical systems. [26][27][28][29][30] First, generally, heavy metal ion uptake-related symptoms do not occur directly or rapidly during a temporary exposure. 26,[31][32][33][34][35] Second, cell proliferation/adhesion are not seriously affected by surficial compositions, other than surficial topographies.…”

“…[26][27][28][29][30] First, generally, heavy metal ion uptake-related symptoms do not occur directly or rapidly during a temporary exposure. 26,[31][32][33][34][35] Second, cell proliferation/adhesion are not seriously affected by surficial compositions, other than surficial topographies. [67][68][69] In addition, histological inflammation and infection do not easily occur with sterilized extraneous objects without the involvement of germs, viruses, or macroscopic stabs.…”

“…[21][22][23] Several researchers have reported that PZT might be used for biological and in vivo applications, but these reports were only based on cell viability or histology over shortterm periods, 18,24,25 which cannot guarantee actual biocompatibility for long-term periods or repeated exposures. 26 Pb causes severe chronic poisoning and pain with long-term exposure (years-to-decades), even when accumulated in small traces. 27,28 Additionally, compounds containing Pb, e.g., lead oxides, are also classified as hazardous materials because they have been implicated in diverse diseases, including tumors.…”