ObjectiveTo review the biological characteristics of self-assembling peptide nanofiber scaffold (SAPNS) and its potential to induce bone repair. MethodsThe literature regarding SAPNS and its application in bone repair was extensively analyzed and reviewed. ResultsSAPNS is derived from natural amino acids, and has the properties of good biocompatibility and non-toxic degradation products. Their microenvironment highly mimics the natural extracellular matrix, and controlled release of growth factors as well as modification with functional motifs can substantially improve their bioactivity. Many studies on cell composite culture and bone defect repair of animal models reveal that SAPNS has the ability to promote the function of bone cells (e.g. adherence, proliferation, and differentiation) in vitro, and enhance new bone tissue formation in vivo. ConclusionSAPNS may be an ideal material for bone repair, but its biologically mechanical properties need further improvement.