Electroactive Biomaterials: Orchestrating Electrical Cues for Enhanced Osseointegration and Bone Regeneration- A Narrative Review

Electroactive biomaterials are emerging as a transformative approach to enhance osseointegration and bone regeneration by mimicking the intrinsic electrical microenvironment of native bone. This review synthesizes recent advancements in piezoelectric, conductive, and composite electroactive materials, highlighting their capacity to modulate cellular behavior, promote osteogenesis, and combat implant-associated infections. Studies demonstrate that optimized 3D topographies and nanoarrays on piezoelectric substrates, coupled with conductive polymer coatings and antimicrobial surface modifications, significantly improve bone-implant integration and regeneration. Furthermore, the development of self-powered systems and multifunctional coatings exemplifies the pursuit of autonomous, biomimetic implants. Future directions should focus on integrating smart sensors for real-time feedback, developing biodegradable and self-healing materials, elucidating cellular mechanotransduction mechanisms, and establishing robust clinical translation pathways. By harmonizing electrical stimulation, antibacterial properties, and advanced material design, electroactive biomaterials hold immense promise for revolutionizing orthopedic and dental therapies.