Spinning conditions for nano-hydroxyapatite-containing precursor polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers have been developed and their effects oil the structure and properties of nanocomposite PAN fibers have been assessed. The precursor PAN fibers prepared under the developed conditions are characterized by high strength, with their total pore content being at a level of 0.25 cm(2)/g. After carbonization, these fibers are designed for use as implants that support and stimulate the process of bone reconstruction. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.