Bones

We've already heard about implantable materials with a scaffolding-like microstructure, that help heal broken bones by giving bone cells a place to migrate into. A new one could work even better, though, by also providing electrical stimulation.

A substance known as calcium phosphate cement is commonly used to repair broken bones, both holding them together and encouraging the growth of new bone tissue. Now, scientists have added carbon fibers to the material to also make it self-healing.

Paleontologists in Australia have uncovered a strange new species of dinosaur. It's an elaphrosaur, placing it in the theropod family along with the Tyrannosaurus rex and Velociraptor – but this one had a long neck, no teeth and an unusual diet.

Ordinarily, when a body is found, the time of death is estimated via insect activity or body temperature. Unfortunately, that doesn't apply if the corpse is in the water. Now, a new study suggests that bone proteins could still provide at least part of the answer.

Most fossils are just bones, but occasionally striking specimens turn up bearing skin or feathers, encased in gemstones, and even preserving traces of DNA against all odds. Here's a look at some of the most incredible fossil finds of recent years.

A combination of two commonly used drugs may boost the release of stem cells from bone marrow and accelerate the healing of broken bones. The researchers suggest clinical trials could progress rapidly as the drugs have already been shown to be safe.

Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory drugs can slow wound healing and bone repair. New research reveals our natural circadian clocks play a major role in healing, and anti-inflammatory drugs may be more effective if taken in the morning.

Air pollution has long been associated with health problems such as respiratory diseases, and has more recently even been linked to psychotic experiences. New research now reinforces the theory that it may also cause osteoporosis.

When it comes to repairing bone injuries or defects, some scientists have been experimenting with what's known as bone morphogenetic protein. It does have some limitations, but those could soon be overcome through the use of a new biomaterial.

Scientists have uncovered what may have been the “last stand” of Homo erectus. Previously thought to have disappeared about 300,000 years ago, Homo erectus could have survived in Indonesia until as recently as 108,000 years ago.

When a bone-break occurs, the body floods the injury site with a healing biochemical known as adenosine. A new bandage is designed to absorb that substance, keeping it around so it can do more work.

Thanks to a new understanding of how bones maintain their strength, we may someday see bone-inspired materials used in longer-lasting products such as aircraft wings. The findings could also lead to better treatments for conditions like osteoporosis.