Next-generation osteoimmunomodulatory biomaterials and smart surfaces for bone regeneration: From bioactive coatings to hybrid scaffolds

Bone loss resulting from infection, tumor resection, or impaired regeneration after high-energy fractures remains a major clinical challenge affecting millions of patients worldwide. Osteonecrosis, in particular, represents a complex pathological scenario involving disruption of vascular supply and dysregulation of the immune–inflammatory response. Traditional grafts and implants can restore mechanical stability but often fail to recreate the dynamic biological microenvironment necessary to support osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and long-term tissue integration.Recent advances in functional biomaterials, including nanostructured surfaces, bioactive coatings, hybrid hydrogels, and polymer–ceramic systems, have shifted the approach from passive structural replacement toward active, bioinstructive strategies. These new materials can regulate cellular behavior, modulate immune responses, and orchestrate bone remodeling processes. In parallel, progress in additive manufacturing, advanced in vitro and organotypic models, and multiscale characterization is enabling the rational design of clinically translational materials that integrate biological functionality with manufacturability and regulatory feasibility.This Research Topic aims to consolidate and expand current knowledge on biomaterial-based strategies for enhancing bone regeneration, with a particular focus on the osteoimmunomodulatory and vascular aspects of osteonecrosis. We encourage submissions that elucidate, from a mechanistic perspective, how material chemistry, architecture, and nanotopography regulate cellular signaling networks governing osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and immune modulation.We particularly value studies that move beyond fundamental proofs of concept toward reproducible and scalable tissue repair platforms. Representative areas of interest include macrophage-polarizing coatings, hybrid scaffolds combining mechanical strength and biological cues, and responsive delivery systems that integrate therapeutic and regenerative capabilities. Emphasis is placed on experimental rigor and validation in biologically relevant models to establish functional correlations.Key translational aspects are also welcome, including sterilization, process reproducibility, sustainability, and performance standardization. By connecting materials science, bioengineering, and emerging clinical needs, this initiative intends to drive the development of next-generation scaffolds and intelligent surfaces capable of achieving durable bone integration and meaningful functional recovery.We welcome original research articles, methods, reviews, and systematic reviews covering, but not limited to, the following themes:o Bioactive and nanostructured coatings for metallic implantso Hybrid scaffolds (polymer–ceramic systems, biomimetic composites) promoting osteogenesis and angiogenesiso Immunomodulatory and antimicrobial surface interfaces for bone healingo Injectable biomaterials, hydrogels, and stimuli-responsive systems for localized therapeutic deliveryo Additive manufacturing (3D and 4D printing) and patient-specific scaffold designo Multiscale material characterization and degradation–bioactivity correlationso Disease-relevant models of osteonecrosis integrating vascular and inflammatory componentso Translational studies addressing manufacturability, process control, safety, and long-term in vivo performance Topic editors: Mehdi Sanati, Gopalu Karunakaran, Qian Li Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83223/next-generation-osteoimmunomodulatory-biomaterials-and-smart-surfaces-for-bone-regeneration-from-bioactive-coatings-to-hybrid-scaffolds