Rare earth dual-doped multifunctional hydroxyapatite particles for potential application in preventive medicine

Abstract

Composite biomaterials based on nano hydroxyapatite (HAp) are the subject of numerous studies in reconstructive medicine. Multifunctional and nanoparticulate systems based on HAp and biodegradable polymers are successfully designed as systems for controlled and systemic drug delivery suitable for use in reconstructive medicine [1, 2]. Thanks to the stability and flexibility of the apatite structure, Ca ions can be replaced with various elements (Zn, Sr, Mg, Co, etc.) [3, 4]. Doping the apatite structure enables potential application of this material in preventive medicine, too. Multimodal imaging (MI) is a new and promising technique for improved diagnosis and it is patient-friendly because it saves time. MI has recently attracted much attention due to the advantageous combination of various imaging modalities, such as computer tomography, photoluminescence and magnetic resonance imaging.