Competent processing techniques for scaffolds in tissue engineering.

Engineering a functional tissue ex vivo requires a synchronized effort towards developing technologies for ECM mimicking scaffold and cultivating tissue-specific cells in an integrated and controlled manner. Cell-interactive scaffolds in three dimensions (3D), designed and processed appropriately with an apt biomaterial to yield optimal porosity and mechanical strength is the key in tissue engineering (TE). In order to accomplish these facets in a 3D scaffold, multiple techniques and processes have been explored by researchers all over the world. New techniques offering reasonable flexibility to use blends of different materials for integrated tissue-specific mechanical strength and biocompatibility have an edge over conventional methods. They may allow a combinatorial approach with a mix of materials while incorporating multiple processing techniques for successful creation of tissue-specific ECM mimics. In this review, we analyze the material requirement from different TE perspectives, while discussing pros and cons of advanced fabrication techniques for scale-up manufacturing.

ECM analog technology: a simple tool for exploring cell-ECM dynamics.

Cells in a functional tissue display a highly interactive relation with their neighboring cells and associated biochemical milieu. Serious disruption in the existing homeostatic balance in the extra-cellular matrix (ECM) may lead to abnormal response by the cells. With insufficient understanding of Cell-ECM interaction and in absence of simple tools for in vitro cell-culture in 3D, we still have to rely on the data generated by growing cells in 2D. In order to comprehend Cell-ECM dynamics it is important to recreate in vivo like microenvironment in 3D. Senescence and loss of function commonly observed in cells cultured in 2D are expected to be surmounted using such tools. Unlike prevailing belief that 3D culture is required only for tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine, simple and easy to handle tools for ex vivo 3D culture may lead to greater impact. With the potential to improve our understanding about cellular behavior, both in normal and abnormal surroundings, they may eventually influence the diagnosis. Here we discuss some of the tools for cell culture in 3D, made available through novel cell-interactive ECM analog technology.

Comprehension of ECM-cell dynamics: a prerequisite for tissue regeneration.

Tissue regeneration and cell therapy have an enormous potential in healthcare through the creation of artificial human tissues and organs. The possibility of producing functional replica of tissues and organs can offer a common, solitary solution for various kinds of inflictions. It can also provide an ultimate test model for drug discovery. There exists convincing evidence that if cells are cultured in extra-cellular matrix (ECM) mimicking 3D scaffolds infused with tissue-specific biochemical cues they grow and differentiate to express functionality. However, comprehensive understanding of ECM and its dynamic relation with the growing cells is vital for creating functional tissue models ex vivo. Different medical and non-medical groups all over the world are working towards achieving affordable, user friendly and technically viable solutions for improving our understanding of Cell-ECM dynamics for tissue engineering (TE). Successful TE, an ambitious goal that includes tissue neogenesis in vitro and functional tissue mending (regenerative medicine) in vivo, however involves innumerable challenges. Present review discusses some of the major technical hurdles that hinder the pace of progress in tissue regeneration/engineering (TE).

Cell-interactive 3D-scaffold; advances and applications.

Culturing cells ex vivo that differentiate and maintain in vivo characteristics holds great promise not only for the pragmatic revelations of cell function but also in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Lack of de-novo extra-cellular matrix (ECM) milieu, which plays a crucial role in generating physical and chemical signals besides providing structural support is attributed to be the major hurdle in normal cell growth in vitro. Hence, to comprehend the outcome of cell biology research in clinical context, it is important that the cell culture based models should incorporate both the three dimensional (3D) organization and multi cellular complexity of an organ while allowing experimental interventions in a desirable manner. This calls for the development of ECM-mimicking 3D scaffold, which can be integrated with relevant ECM cues to offer cell interactive versatility for different medical and non-medical applications. Present review discusses the status of ECM mimicking for 3D cell culture and its diverse implications.