On the relevance and requirements of biomaterials

The technological orientation of current medical practice is reflected in t he effective utilization of a number of diagnostic and therapeutic devices. Synthetic and natural biomaterials alone or in combination form the basis for development of such devices that are in contact with different tissues. The effect of materials on tissues and vice versa needs to be understood t o ensure safety and effectiveness of the devices. This calls for biological evaluation of materials and devices, in addition to a spectrum of recommen ded toxicological testing of materials depending upon the duration and the type of tissue in contact with. Besides being non-toxic, the material is re quired to meet the functional requirements with the appropriate host respon se which is termed as biocompatibility. This paper reviews the evolution and the requirements of biomaterials. The in vitro and in vivo evolution methodologies are highlighted based on our e xperience in developing blood bag, dental composite, hydroxyapatite and fib rin glue. The requirements of biomaterials in the current context of advanc es in the fields of tissue engineering and biomimetics is outlined.