CaPO4
(calcium orthophosphate) is an ideal class of materials for bone tissue
engineering applications due to the similarity of its set of chemical compositions and
structures with mammalian bones and teeth. The use of CaPO4
-based biomaterials in
dental and orthopedic applications has become widespread in recent years. The
biocompatibility, biodegradability, and varying stoichiometry of CaPO4
scaffolds make
them suitable candidates for drug loading and tissue engineering strategies. Therefore,
calcium phosphate compounds, particularly hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium
phosphates (TCP) are highly attractive as bone grafts or drug delivery agents.
Specifically, three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds and carriers made from calcium
phosphate are created to promote osteogenesis and angiogenesis. These scaffolds are
typically porous and can accommodate a range of drugs, bioactive molecules, and cells.
In recent years, stem cells and calcium phosphate compounds have been used
increasingly as bone grafts. This chapter explores the advantages, sources, and
fabrication methods of CaPO4
scaffolds for possible usage in tissue engineering.
Keywords: Calcium orthophosphates (CaPO4 ), Hydroxyapatite (HA), Tricalcium phosphate (TCP), Scaffolds, Tissue engineering.
