Unraveling Molecular Mechanisms of Doped Bioglasses -Mediated MicroRNA Modulation in Bone Regeneration

Abstract

This narrative review elucidates the molecular mechanisms by which doped bioglass scaffolds enhance bone regeneration through microRNA (miRNA) regulation and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation. Bioglasses, modified with trace elements like strontium, magnesium, and europium, exhibit superior osteoinductive and angiogenic properties by releasing bioactive ions that modulate miRNAs. For instance, strontium-doped bioglass upregulates miR-26a, targeting GSK3β to activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling, thereby promoting Runx2 expression and osteoblast differentiation. Drawing on literature from 2020 to 2025, we explore how doped bioglasses regulate key pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, BMP/Smad, MAPK) to optimize bone repair. Challenges, such as optimizing miRNA delivery and scaffold biocompatibility, are addressed, alongside strategies like nanoparticle-based systems and 3D-printed mesoporous scaffolds for enhanced therapeutic outcomes. This review highlights the potential of doped bioglass and miRNA-based therapies to revolutionize regenerative medicine, offering insights for researchers and clinicians aiming to address bone defects through innovative biomaterial applications.