From self-healing surfaces to living interfaces: A materials–cell biology perspective on next-generation biomaterials

Abstract

Self-healing materials have evolved from passive protective systems into dynamic platforms capable of restoring structural and functional performance after damage. Recent advances in dynamic covalent chemistry, supramolecular interactions, nanocomposites, hydrogels, vitrimer-like networks, and stimuli-responsive polymers have expanded the capabilities of self-healing surfaces and coatings. Meanwhile, cell biology and regenerative medicine have revealed that biological repair is governed by dynamic interactions among the extracellular matrix, cell adhesion, mechanotransduction, redox signaling, inflammation, and biochemical cues. This Perspective proposes a shift from conventional self-healing surfaces toward biointegrated self-healing interfaces, in which material architecture, surface chemistry, cellular microenvironment, and biological signaling are designed as an interconnected system. Key concepts linking dynamic material networks with cellular adhesion, ECM remodeling, cytoskeletal adaptation, oxidative stress regulation, and immune signaling are discussed. Emerging platforms, including self-healing hydrogels, bioactive nanocomposites, conductive and antibacterial surfaces, and cell-interactive coatings, are critically considered. Finally, a research roadmap toward multifunctional interfaces capable of simultaneously restoring material integrity and regulating cellular and tissue responses is proposed.