Integrated Biomaterials Science Integrated Biomaterials Science provides an intriguing insight into the world of biomaterials. It explores the materials and technology which have brought advances in new biomaterials highlighting the way in which modern biology and medicine are synergistically linked to other key scientific disciplines physics chemistry and engineering. In doing so Integrated Biomaterials Science contains chapters on tissue engineering and gene therapy standards and parameters of biomaterials applications and interactions within the industrial world as well as potential aspects of patent regulations. Integrated Biomaterials Science serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding this dynamic field yet is designed so that chapters may be read and understood independently depending on the needs of the reader. Integrated Biomaterials Science is attractive to a broad audience interested in a deeper understanding of this evolving field and serves as a key resource for researchers and students of biomaterials courses providing all with an opportunity to probe further. Biological Materials Structure and Properties of Polymeric Materials Fundamentals of Polymeric Composite Materials Biodegradable Polymers Bioceramics and Biological Glasses Metallic Materials Degradation Processes on Metallic Surfaces Characterization of Biomaterials Tissues Soft Tissue The Eye Articular Cartilage The Material and Mechanical Properties of the Healthy and Degenerated Intervertebral Disc Soft Tissue Replacement Mechanics of Hard Tissues Hip Joint Prosthesis Knee Joint Replacements Biomaterial Applications: Elbow Prosthesis Biomaterial Applications: Shoulder Prosthesis Acrylic Bone Cements Mechanical Properties of Tooth Structures Dental Materials and Implants Materials Biological Environment Interactions Protein Adsorption and Cellular Tissue Interactions Inflammatory Response to Polymeric Materials Inflammatory Response to Metals and Ceramics Biocompatibility and Biological Tests Infection and Sterilization Drug Delivery Systems Gene Delivery as a New Therapeutic Approach Tissue Engineering Assist Devices Standards on Biomaterials Biomaterials and Patents.