Bone and Cartilage Tissue Engineering Scaffolds With Nanocellulose

Abstract

Nanocellulose has emerged as a promising biomaterial for tissue engineering applications, particularly in the regeneration of bone and cartilage. This chapter explores the unique properties of and synthesis methods for nanocellulose and its potential in development of hybrid systems for bone and cartilage tissue engineering. The physicochemical properties of nanocellulose, including its high mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and surface modification capabilities, make it an ideal candidate for creating scaffolds that mimic the natural extracellular matrix. The chapter discusses various nanocellulose-based hybrid systems, such as nanocellulose–ceramic, nanocellulose–polymer, and nanocellulose–metal composites, and their applications in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. The biocompatibility and biodegradability of these hybrid systems are also examined, along with their ability to support cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the challenges and future research directions in the field, emphasizing the need for scalable production methods, regulatory compliance, and long-term in vivo studies. Overall, this chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of nanocellulose-based hybrid systems in advancing bone and cartilage tissue engineering, offering insights into developing innovative scaffolds for regenerative medicine applications.