Engineered Biomimicry: Chapter 7. Bioscaffolds: Fabrication and Performance

The fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) scaffold architectures that closely approximate or effectively mimic native tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for regenerative success. In tissue engineering, native differentiable cells are incorporated into 3D scaffolds along with growth factors and other proteins. Materials used for the 3D scaffold construction must be biocompatible and bioresorbable to minimize adverse reactions during tissue regeneration. A 3D architecture is created by utilizing materials with specific surface properties, porosity, mechanical strength, etc., to improve desired cell activity and enhance tissue growth. Ideal 3D scaffolds should also not only have hierarchical macroporous structures comparable to those of living tissue, but they should also have surface features on the nanometer scale to improve cell adhesion and accelerate cell in growth.