ABSTRACT

The loss of function of tissues from disease, injury, or aging causes serious health problems as well as a tremendous social and economic cost. There is an important incentive for nding techniques that promote consistent, robust bone formation for repair and regeneration. The substitution of tissues such as bone or cartilage can currently be performed with allograft materials, but this introduces a risk of infection or graft rejection. Autologous bone grafts have, therefore, been considered for augmenting bone regeneration. This can eliminate immunological rejection and unnecessary pathogen transfer. Unfortunately, autologous transplantation provides a limited volume of bone grafts and is affected by potential donor site morbidity. Articial implants have limitations too due to insufcient bonding to bone and allergic reactions that can be caused through material abrasion. This makes the lifespan for the implant nite and can lead to the need for replacement. Many types of metallic implants have been used including gold, stainless steel and, more recently, chromium alloys.

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