Biomimetic osteochondral regeneration of the TMJ condyle: integrating BMP-2 osteoinduction, MSC-mediated fibrochondrogenesis, and gradient 3D-printed scaffolds.

Authors

Bernardo Correia Lima, Michelle Alonso Coutinho, Pedro Américo Felizardo Dos Santos, Ricardo Grillo, Mariana Aparecida Brozoski, Fernando Melhem-Elias

Published in

Journal of oral biology and craniofacial research. Volume 16. Issue 4. Pages 101501. Epub Aug 17, 2026.

Abstract

Biological and biomaterial-based approaches for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condylar reconstruction have advanced substantially, yet no unified regenerative strategy currently reproduces the native osteochondral unit, particularly the fibrocartilage-bone hierarchy and its biomechanical demands.
An integrative evidence synthesis was performed across four translational domains relevant to biomimetic condylar regeneration: (1) ultra-low-dose rhBMP-2 osteoinduction, (2) bilaminar osteochondral scaffolds, (3) MSC/TGF-β3-driven chondrogenesis, and (4) zonal or gradient 3D-printed constructs. Evidence was interpreted through mechanistic plausibility, scaffold design, safety constraints, and translational readiness for oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Convergent findings support the feasibility of biomimetic osteochondral regeneration. Controlled BMP-2 delivery enables potent osteoinduction when spatially confined and dose-restricted. Bilaminar constructs reproducibly generate stratified cartilage-bone organization and improve interface integrity. MSC/TGF-β3 approaches promote fibrocartilage-like matrix formation, particularly when combined with instructive scaffolds. Gradient 3D printing enhances anatomical fidelity and transitional biomechanics, improving construct coherence across zones.
A multimodal regenerative framework integrating controlled osteoinduction, scaffold-based interface engineering, and biologically guided fibrocartilage regeneration may represent a promising translational pathway toward biologically engineered TMJ condylar reconstruction, although current evidence remains predominantly preclinical.

PMID:
42694986
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 04 Sep 2026.

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