The role of magnesium hydrogels in bone regeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#animals #humans #biocompatible-materials #bone-regeneration #hydrogels

The role of magnesium hydrogels in bone regeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Chen et al., 2025 | J Mater Sci Mater Med | Meta Analysis

Citation

Chen Zhifeng, Yang Dan, ... Hao Chunbo. The role of magnesium hydrogels in bone regeneration: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Mater Sci Mater Med. 2025-Aug-18;36(1):66. doi:10.1007/s10856-025-06881-8

Abstract

Magnesium, an essential element in human physiology, is predominantly located in bone tissue. Since the early 20th century, magnesium-based biomaterials have demonstrated osteoinductive and angiogenic potential, positioning them as promising candidates for bone regeneration strategies. Hydrogels, composed of crosslinked hydrophilic polymers, provide a three-dimensional microenvironment mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM), thereby supporting cell adhesion, nutrient diffusion, and controlled release of bioactive ions such as Mg²⁺. Recent advances in material science have enabled the design of multifunctional magnesium-loaded hydrogels that synergistically combine mechanical stability, immunomodulation, and spatiotemporal Mg²⁺ release to address critical-sized bone defects. This review systematically examines hydrogel classifications and elucidates magnesium-mediated biological signaling pathways that drive bone repair. A meta-analysis of 10 studies retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase was performed to assess the efficacy of magnesium-containing hydrogels in bone repair. The findings demonstrate that magnesium significantly enhances bone repair processes, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for bone defect treatment.

Key Findings

The findings demonstrate that magnesium significantly enhances bone repair processes, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for bone defect treatment.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 10
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Bone Regeneration
  • Hydrogels
  • Magnesium

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: magnesium-osteoporosis

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09