ABSTRACT
This chapter is dedicated to provide an overview of the influence of chemical and/or physical properties on immune response to the material used to elaborate the implantable biomaterial devices. The macrophage response to and macrophage based immunomodulation for the different biomaterials types, polymer, metallic and ceramic, is highlighted. Polymeric materials are widely used as an implantable device as they present a good biocompatibility with the human body. They can be also used to change materials surface and rend them more suitable for the desired application. Metallic biomaterials are found in almost all orthopedic and dental devices. However, some can lead to risk of adverse biological reaction by generation of metallic particles and ions that can activate immune system. Ceramic based materials can be ranged from bioinert to bioactive materials for coating of replacement and regenerative materials in orthopedic and dental surgery. The response of macrophages to biomaterials has a strong potential target for controlling clinical outcomes via immunomodulation. Based on the application of the device and the short and long-term responses of macrophages for implantable systems, it is possible to choose the suitable material that can establish a strong communication with host immune system.
