Peptide decorated nano-hydroxyapatite with enhanced bioactivity and osteogenic differentiation via polydopamine coating

•An innovative bone forming peptide decorated nano-HA was developed via pDA coating.•The peptide-conjugated HA induced the adhesion and proliferation of MG-63 cells.•The osteogenic differentiation of the peptide-conjugated HA was enhanced.•This research establishes a safe, effective and stable strategy for modifying HA.