Ultrasound-activated piezoelectric biomaterials for cartilage regeneration.

Journal: Ultrasonics sonochemistry
Published Date: Apr 14, 2025

Abstract

Due to the low density of chondrocytes and limited ability to repair damaged extracellular matrix (ECM) in cartilage, many patients with congenital or acquired craniofacial trauma require filler graft materials to support facial structure, restore function, improve self-confidence, and regain socialization. Ultrasound has the capacity to stimulate piezoelectric materials, converting mechanical energy into electrical signals that can regulate the metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation of chondrocytes. This unique property has sparked growing interest in using piezoelectric biomaterials in regenerative medicine. In this review, we first explain the principle behind ultrasound-activated piezoelectric materials and how they generate piezopotential. We then review studies demonstrating how this bioelectricity promotes chondrocyte regeneration, stimulates the secretion of key extracellular components and supports cartilage regeneration by activating relevant signaling pathways. Next, we discuss the properties, synthesis, and modification strategies of various piezoelectric biomaterials. We further discuss recent progresses in the development of ultrasound-activated piezoelectric biomaterials specifically designed for cartilage regeneration. Lastly, we discuss future research challenges facing this technology, ultrasound-activated piezoelectric materials for cartilage regeneration engineering. While the technology holds great promise, certain obstacles remain, including issues related to material stability, precise control over ultrasound parameters, and the integration of these systems into clinical settings. The combination of ultrasound-activated piezoelectric technology with other emerging fields, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cartilage organoid chips, may open new frontiers in regenerative medicine. We hope this review encourages further exploration of ultrasound-activated strategies for piezoelectric materials and their future applications in regenerative medicines.

Authors

  • Yangchen Wei
    The First Affiliated Hospital, Center of Burn & Plastic and Wound Repair, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China; Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101400, PR China.
  • Zhengyang Li
    The First Affiliated Hospital, Center of Burn & Plastic and Wound Repair, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China; Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101400, PR China.
  • Tianjing Yu
    The First Affiliated Hospital, Center of Burn & Plastic and Wound Repair, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China.
  • Yan Chen
    Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
  • Qinglai Yang
    Center for Molecular Imaging Probe, Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China.
  • Kaikai Wen
    Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101400, PR China; School of Nanoscience and Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China. Electronic address: kaikaiwen@binn.cas.cn.
  • Junlin Liao
    Department of Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
  • Linlin Li
    Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Tai'an, Shandong, 271016, China.

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