Biomimetic Approach for the Controlled Drug Delivery through 3D Bioactive Scaffolds: A Novel Strategy for Tissue Engineering Applications

A suitable drug delivery system may accelerate the growth and repair of a new tissue. Small-molecule chemicals, proteins, peptides, cytokines, etc. typically known as drugs have a positive effect on cellular function and tissue regeneration. Controlled drug delivery can be achieved by the physical or chemical adsorption of the drug to the scaffold matrix, thereby entrapping the drug inside the scaffold, and then release takes place by the process of diffusion or with the degradation of the scaffold. The minimum threshold is essential for drugs to be effective, but as a result of short half-life in vivo, the challenge lies in supplying the appropriate dose at the injured site for an increased period. To overcome the challenge, various biomimetic materials are being employed for delivering drugs in a controlled manner, which includes porous materials, hydrogels, nanofibrous scaffolds, etc. made from natural and synthetic polymers.