Key Concepts in the Use of Biomaterials

Biological testing

Biological testing

The process of evaluating the safety and efficacy of medical devices through experiments and assessments on biological systems.

Cell and molecular biology

The study of the structure, function, and interactions of cells and molecules, which is important for understanding biological interactions and testing.

Body's protective and reparative responses

The natural responses of the body to protect and repair itself when exposed to foreign materials, such as medical devices.

Sequence of events after biomaterial implantation

The chronological order of reactions and cellular responses that occur when a biomaterial is placed in a biological environment.

Era of the Physician-Hero

A historical period when innovative physicians applied high-performance materials originally manufactured for other purposes to medical problems.

Intraocular lenses

Artificial lenses implanted in the eye to replace the natural lens, developed by Sir Harold Ridley.

Dialysis machine

A medical device invented by Willem Kolff using a modified washing machine to perform dialysis for patients with kidney failure.

Arteriovenous shunt

A device developed by Belding Scribner and Wayne Quinton to create a connection between an artery and a vein for chronic dialysis.

Medical Device Amendments

Legislation passed in 1976 to ensure the safety and effectiveness of medical devices, including the requirement for premarket approval by the FDA.

Biocompatibility

The ability of a biomaterial to perform its intended function without causing harmful effects or adverse reactions in the biological system.

Intersection of biology and materials

The field of biomaterials that focuses on the interaction between biological systems and materials used in medical devices.

Biologically relevant testing

Testing methods and experiments that mimic the conditions and responses of biological systems to assess the compatibility and effectiveness of biomaterials.

Cell phenotype

The observable characteristics and behaviors of a cell, determined by its specific gene expression and differentiation.

Extracellular matrix (ECM)

The biological material produced by cells and residing between cells, providing physical support and regulating cell behavior.

Integrins

Receptors that bind to extracellular matrix proteins and mediate cell-matrix interactions.

Growth factors

Cell signaling molecules that promote cell proliferation, differentiation, and various cellular activities, crucial for tissue repair and wound healing.

Cytokines

Cell signaling molecules that regulate immune cells and influence cellular activities, such as interferons, interleukins, and tumor necrosis factors.

Chemokines

Cell signaling molecules that guide cell migration in response to a chemical gradient.

Cell injury

Damage or harm to cells caused by various factors, such as toxic agents, trauma, or surgery, leading to cell death or inflammation.

Macrophages

Immune cells that play a key role in the response to tissue injury and foreign materials, involved in eliminating damaged tissues and initiating repair processes.

Fibrous encapsulation

The formation of fibrous tissue around foreign bodies or implants to isolate them from the surrounding biological environment.

Foreign body reaction (FBR)

The biological response of the body to foreign materials, characterized by inflammation, encapsulation, and immune reactions.

Implantation is an injury

The recognition that the placement of a biomaterial in a biological system triggers a series of reactions and responses similar to an injury.

Innate immune system

The body's first line of defense against pathogens and foreign materials, providing immediate protection through non-specific immune responses.

Adaptive immunity

The immune response that develops over time and is specific to particular antigens, involving the activation of immune cells and the production of antibodies.

Water molecules and ions

Substances that rapidly reach the surface of a biomaterial upon implantation, initiating the initial reactions and interactions with the biological environment.

Blood coagulation

The process of clot formation to prevent excessive bleeding and maintain hemostasis when a biomaterial is implanted in the body.