Biomolecules and Materials Based Approaches in Biomedical Field

To date, biomolecules and materials-based approaches have gained tremendous attention in the biomedical field as they represent advanced strategies that are rapidly transforming the areas of biomedical diagnostics, therapeutics, pharmaceutics, and drug delivery. Biomolecules range from small molecules, such as amino acids, vitamins, fatty acids, neurotransmitters, and hormones, to macromolecules, which include proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and enzymes. Intense research activity in the field has highlighted their crucial roles in both biological processes and pathologies. Besides their well known role within the human body, they are potential therapeutic molecules and biomarkers for disease diagnostics, and pharmaceutical development. Materials-based systems, fabricated in many forms, including films, membranes, tubes, fibers, particles and capsules, nanofiber scaffolds and hydrogels, made of natural, synthetic or blend polymers, and bioreactors, are used in a wide range of biomedical applications. Material characteristics, including morphological, mechanical, physico-chemical, and transport properties, influence the viability, growth, and functions of cells and, consequently, affect new tissue formation. Therefore, the selection of materials plays a key role in the design and development of biomedical products. The challenge is providing biofunctionality, biophysical, mechanical and topographical features of the target tissue in order to improve its repair and regeneration. Currently, different types of materials are used as implants to mimic the structure and function of tissues/organs, organ regeneration, tissue engineering, wound healing, diagnosis of diseases and treatment, and delivery of drugs. Recently, material systems are emerging as investigational tools in preclinical research.