Research Progress on Biodegradable Magnesium Phosphate Ceramics in Orthopaedic Application

Abstract

To overcome from critical size bone defects, calcium phosphate (CaP) based ceramics have been widely explored. The compositional similarity with bone matrix and degradability are the main reasons for their selection in orthopaedic biomaterials. However, the low solubility rate under in vivo conditions raises concerns about these CaP groups of ceramics. Therefore, reliable and suitable degradable ceramics for bone defect repair are always a research thurst for researchers. The magnesium phosphate (MgP) group of bioceramics have been studied for orthopaedic application and is comparatively new to traditional CaP ceramics. The role of magnesium in the different biochemical processes, such as DNA stabilization, bone density maintenance, regulating Ca and Na ion channels, and cell proliferation and differentiation enhancement, is the key parameter of the development of MgP bioceramics. This article aims to give a compressive review of MgP ceramics in bone tissue engineering. Here, we have highlighted several preparation techniques, the existence of porosity, and the impact of metal ion doping on MgP bioceramics. Finally, in vitro and in vivo responses of MgP bioceramics in bone formation are discussed.