A review on thiolated sodium carboxymethyl cellulose scaffolds in bone tissue engineering

Thiolated carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC-SH) has proven to be a promising material for next-generation scaffold design to promote bone regeneration. The material’s uncommon chemical structure allows for the creation of highly porous 3D scaffolds that are not just biodegradable and biocompatible but also conducive to the survival and integration of osteoblast-like cells. These scaffolds degrade at a controlled rate, creating a very beneficial environment for the growth of cells and the development of tissue. Interestingly, they also support robust osteogenic differentiation and exhibit inherent osteoconductive capabilities, both attributes that are needed for successful bone repair and healing. The current review specifically aims to assess such composite scaffolds based on structure, cell growth, osteogenic ability, and capability to mineralize, as well as the advantages of polymer modifications and their methods and processes, and how thiolation of carboxymethyl cellulose can (CMC) help in bone regeneration and healing. It also highlights the physical, chemical, and structural properties of CMC-SH scaffolds and composites. Especially its improved crosslinking, mucoadhesion, and drug delivery capabilities. This review also evaluates the scaffold composition, cellular behavior, mineralization potential, and CMC-SH role in composite systems for load-bearing, minimally invasive procedures, and controlled delivery of growth factors. The review ultimately aims to guide future research directions and promote interdisciplinary efforts to optimize these materials for clinical applications in regenerative medicine.