Multiscale Imaging and Biomechanical Characterization of Biomaterials, Scaffolds, and Implants for Musculoskeletal Repair

Recent advances in biomaterials have driven significant progress in addressing critical challenges in musculoskeletal (MSK) medicine, from bone-graft substitutes and engineered cartilage to tendon and ligament scaffolds, intervertebral disc replacements, and next-generation orthopedic implants. Translating these materials into clinical solutions depends not only on synthetic ingenuity but also on comprehensive and accurate analysis of their structural, mechanical, and biological behavior within the complex, load-bearing environment of MSK tissues. In light of an ageing population, rising rates of MSK injury and degeneration, and growing demand for regenerative solutions that restore function across hierarchical length scales, there is increasing emphasis on imaging and diagnostic strategies that facilitate nuanced observation and quantification of biomaterial performance in living systems. State-of-the-art methodologies now allow detailed investigation into the distribution, integration, remodeling, and mechanical contribution of MSK biomaterials, yet notable gaps remain in our ability to measure and interpret these processes in situ, across scales, and with clinical relevance.

This Research Topic seeks to compile interdisciplinary contributions that advance the imaging, characterization, and diagnostic monitoring of biomaterials, scaffolds, tissue-engineered constructs, and implants designed for the musculoskeletal system. The goal is to highlight and encourage the use of innovative approaches, such as synchrotron and laboratory micro- and nano-CT, quantitative and functional MRI, ultrasound and shear-wave elastography, optical coherence tomography, second-harmonic generation, photoacoustic and molecular imaging, in situ and image-guided mechanical testing, digital volume correlation, atomic force microscopy, and image-based computational modelling, to capture the structural, mechanical, and biological communication between MSK biomaterials and their host tissues. We especially welcome studies that deepen our understanding of biomaterial-tissue interfaces, scaffold integration and degradation, construct mechanics, and therapeutic efficacy through robust, quantitative, and mechanobiology-aware techniques. Contributions that connect experimental findings with next-generation methodologies, machine-learning-driven analysis, and translational potential are especially valued.

The scope of this Research Topic encompasses original research and reviews focused on the use of advanced imaging and diagnostic approaches to dissect biomaterial behavior in musculoskeletal contexts. We invite articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Development and assessment of imaging probes and contrast agents for MSK biomaterials, scaffolds, and implants
- Multiscale and correlative imaging of scaffold integration, degradation, and remodeling in bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament, intervertebral disc, and muscle
- In situ and image-guided biomechanical characterization of MSK tissue-engineered constructs and biomaterial-tissue interfaces
- Innovations in biosensors and diagnostic tools for monitoring implant performance, infection, and healing in MSK applications
- Quantitative imaging of mechanobiological responses at the biomaterial-tissue interface, including strain mapping and digital volume correlation
- Image-based computational modelling and machine-learning approaches for predicting and evaluating MSK biomaterial performance
- Translational imaging and diagnostic strategies for clinical monitoring of orthopedic implants, bone-graft substitutes, and regenerative therapies