ABSTRACT
The term “functional biomaterials” is a broad deŠnition of biomaterials that carry biologically relevant function(s). These may include all the contemporary biomaterials used in medical implants and devices and are classiŠed traditionally as metals, ceramics, composites, and polymers. As the development of biomaterials relies more and more heavily on the understanding and adaptation of principles in biology, functional biomaterials often refer to materials that combine biological molecules, such as proteins, peptides, and nucleic acids, forming systems that actively interact with biological entities (such as cells) and modulate biological processes. Functional biomaterials are also responsive materials that are able to recognize signals in biological environment, change their structures, and carry out their functions accordingly.
