Application of biomolecules modification strategies on PEEK and its composites for osteogenesis and antibacterial properties

As orthopedic and dental implants, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is expected to be a common substitute material of titanium (Ti) and its alloys due to its good biocompatibility, chemical stability, and elastic modulus close to that of bone tissue. It could avoid metal allergy and bone resorption caused by the stress shielding effect of Ti implants, widely studied in the medical field. However, the lack of biological activity is not conducive to the clinical application of PEEK implants. Therefore, the surface modification of PEEK has increasingly become one of the research hotspots. Researchers have explored various biomolecules modification methods to effectively enhance the osteogenic and antibacterial activities of PEEK and its composites. Therefore, this review mainly summarizes the recent research of PEEK modified by biomolecules and discusses the further research directions to promote the clinical transformation of PEEK implants.