Novel scaffold composites containing octacalcium phosphate and their role in bone repair

Octacalcium phosphate (OCP) can facilitate bone regeneration and is considered as a possible bone substitute. However, due to the multiple water molecules in the structure, OCP cannot be sintered without crystal phase decomposition. Thus formation of materials consisting of OCP alone into suitable shapes and sizes for treatment of bone defects is difficult. Improvements in the formability of OCP-based materials could not only increase ease of handling during surgeries but also enhance osteoconductivity. In this chapter, we review the development of OCP/natural polymer composites. Combining natural polymers with OCP provides a scaffold that has a porous structure and allows use in implanting systems. These composites exhibit higher osteoconductivity compared to OCP alone as reflected by increased osteoblast and osteoclast activity that could be induced by the nature of the polymer and the OCP crystallinity as well as the three-dimensional structure of composites. Based on findings from our studies, OCP-based composites will likely be effective materials for use in orthopedic or dental surgeries to promote healing of damaged bone tissue.