Implantaatioa

Implantaatioa is the Basque term for implantation, describing the process by which something becomes embedded in tissue or attached to a larger structure. In medicine and biology, it is used to refer to natural events such as embryo attachment as well as the surgical placement of artificial devices or tissues inside the body. The concept spans developmental biology, reproductive science, and bioengineering.

In humans, embryo implantation is a key step in establishing pregnancy. After fertilization, a blastocyst interacts with the receptive endometrium during a limited window. The process includes apposition, adhesion, and invasion of trophoblast cells, occurring roughly six to ten days after ovulation. Progesterone-driven decidualization of the endometrium supports the embryo and forms the maternal-embryonic interface. Implantation depends on endometrial receptivity, immune modulation, and signaling molecules such as LIF and various integrins. Disruptions can lead to infertility, early pregnancy loss, or ectopic implantation.

Implantation also refers to the surgical placement of artificial materials or tissues inside the body. Common examples include dental implants, orthopedic implants, electronic medical devices, and engineered tissues. Successful implants rely on biocompatibility and, for load-bearing devices, on osseointegration with surrounding bone. Materials such as titanium alloys and bioceramics are frequently used. Procedures carry risks including infection, inflammation, implant loosening, or mechanical failure.

Dental implants are a prominent subset, where a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth, followed by osseointegration before attaching a crown. Healing periods vary, and long-term success depends on factors such as bone quality, oral hygiene, and absence of peri-implant disease. In research, implantation also describes placing cells or tissues into an organism to study development, disease, or regenerative therapies.