Biomaterial-assisted gene therapy for bone repair

Bone defects are a prevalent and serious condition that can give rise to pain, deformity, infection, and even serious consequences. However, conventional treatment modalities, whether conservative or surgical, are often limited by suboptimal outcomes, insufficient resources, or potential risks. Biomaterial-assisted gene therapy systems, an emerging interdisciplinary field integrating gene therapy and biomaterial technology, enhance gene therapy targeting, cellular uptake, and gene expression efficiency, facilitating a shift from natural bone grafts to artificial biomaterial substitutes. Below, we present a comprehensive review of current developments in biomaterial-assisted gene therapy for bone repair. Following a brief introduction of bone repair mechanisms and conventional treatment strategies, the foundations of biomaterial-assisted gene therapy for bone repair are elucidated from a holistic perspective, highlighting the three key elements: therapeutic genes, gene vectors, and biomaterials. Furthermore, current challenges and future research directions are discussed. The review is not confined to the summary of a single technology; rather, it aims to establish an overarching concept of biomaterial-assisted gene therapy and serve as a reference for future interdisciplinary studies.