Strategies for integration of tissue engineered constructs to native cartilage and bone

Strategies for integration of tissue engineered constructs to native cartilage and bone Book Chapter

Dua, R, Ramaswamy, S. (2012). Strategies for integration of tissue engineered constructs to native cartilage and bone . 75-87.

Tissue engineered constructs typically comprise of a cellular and biomaterial component. The latter takes on the role of a scaffold, to permit aggregation and organization of 3-dimensional extracellular matrix or tissue produced by the cells. However, it is clear that in areas of tissue engineering where tissue defects, voids, gaps or spaces need to be filled, proper in situ tissue formation will require sufficient spatial and temporal retention of the engineered construct at the repair site. Thus far, limited efforts have focused on this important design consideration required for the proper implantation of tissue engineered materials. Yet, the integration of the biomaterial with surrounding tissue is critical in maximizing long-term functionality and success. This can be achieved by one of 4 fixation methods: i) chemical, ii) mechanical, iii) biological or iv) some combination of i) through iii). Importantly, it is critical that the methodologies applied do not interfere with the tissue repair and regeneration processes. In this chapter, we review strategies for enhanced integration between biomaterial and native tissues, the ultimate goal being that in situ engineered tissue formation can be augmented. Emphasis is placed in the area of cartilage tissue engineering wherein strong integration between engineered cartilage and subchondral bone is required. © 2012 Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.