Innovative Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Regeneration of Soft and Hard Tissues

A special issue of Journal of Functional Biomaterials (ISSN 2079-4983). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2023) | Viewed by 32240

Special Issue Editors

1. Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
2. Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
Interests: bone biology; osteogenic mechanisms; bone regenerative strategies; orthopedics; craniofacial surgery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The wide complexity and heterogeneity of human tissues justify the emergence in the 1980s of tissue engineering as a biomedical science area, which underwent an exponential growth thereafter. Tissue engineering aims to regenerate human tissues and organs (e.g., bone, cartilage, skin, and liver), bridging the structure with function as a paramount challenge. Due to its cross-domain nature tissue engineering (TE) gathers scientists, engineers, and physicians in multidisciplinary teams using a variety of methods to construct biological substitutes. Most human native tissues are made of complex three-dimensional (3D) structures, presenting different shapes, architectures, and extracellular matrix compositions. Several efforts have been made, by research groups spread worldwide, to develop constructs that could mimic the complexity of native tissues. However, the achievement of 3D complex organ structures is far from being tangible. Furthermore, these tissues, which are not static, have unique functions suited to dynamic changes in tissue conformations. For this Special Issue, we will include original articles presenting the latest developments on biomaterials and TE strategies for the development of biologically functional products with structural organization. In addition, updated review manuscripts able to stimulate creative thinking will be highlighted.

Prof. Dr. Pedro Morouço
Prof. Dr. Wanda Lattanzi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • biomaterials
  • scaffolds
  • bioprinting
  • regenerative medicine
  • cells
  • mesenchymal stromal cells
  • nanotechnologies
  • nanomaterials

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 4019 KiB  
Article
Stabilizing A Vascularized Autologous Matrix with Flexible Magnesium Scaffolds to Reconstruct Dysfunctional Left Ventricular Myocardium in a Large-Animal Feasibility Study
by Tobias Schilling, Serghei Cebotari, Tim Kaufeld, Igor Tudorache, Gudrun Brandes, Dagmar Hartung, Frank Wacker, Michael Bauer, Axel Haverich and Thomas Hassel
J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(2), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14020073 - 29 Jan 2023
Viewed by 1215
Abstract
The surgical reconstruction of dysfunctional myocardium is necessary for patients with severe heart failure. Autologous biomaterials, such as vascularized patch materials, have a regenerative potential due to in vivo remodeling. However, additional temporary mechanical stabilization of the biomaterials is required to prevent aneurysms [...] Read more.
The surgical reconstruction of dysfunctional myocardium is necessary for patients with severe heart failure. Autologous biomaterials, such as vascularized patch materials, have a regenerative potential due to in vivo remodeling. However, additional temporary mechanical stabilization of the biomaterials is required to prevent aneurysms or rupture. Degradable magnesium scaffolds could prevent these life-threatening risks. A left ventricular transmural defect was reconstructed in minipigs with a piece of the autologous stomach. Geometrically adaptable and degradable scaffolds made of magnesium alloy LA63 were affixed on the epicardium to stabilize the stomach tissue. The degradation of the magnesium structures, their biocompatibility, physiological remodeling of the stomach, and the heart’s function were examined six months after the procedure via MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), angiography, µ-CT, and light microscopy. All animals survived the surgery. Stable physiological integration of the stomach patch could be detected. No ruptures of the grafts occurred. The magnesium scaffolds showed good biocompatibility. Regenerative surgical approaches for treating severe heart failure are a promising therapeutic alternative to the currently available, far from optimal options. The temporary mechanical stabilization of viable, vascularized grafts facilitates their applicability in clinical scenarios. Full article
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17 pages, 4082 KiB  
Article
Decellularized Pancreatic Tail as Matrix for Pancreatic Islet Transplantation into the Greater Omentum in Rats
by Zuzana Berkova, Klara Zacharovova, Alzbeta Patikova, Ivan Leontovyc, Zuzana Hladikova, David Cerveny, Eva Tihlarikova, Vilem Nedela, Peter Girman, Daniel Jirak and Frantisek Saudek
J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(4), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13040171 - 30 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1876
Abstract
Infusing pancreatic islets into the portal vein currently represents the preferred approach for islet transplantation, despite considerable loss of islet mass almost immediately after implantation. Therefore, approaches that obviate direct intravascular placement are urgently needed. A promising candidate for extrahepatic placement is the [...] Read more.
Infusing pancreatic islets into the portal vein currently represents the preferred approach for islet transplantation, despite considerable loss of islet mass almost immediately after implantation. Therefore, approaches that obviate direct intravascular placement are urgently needed. A promising candidate for extrahepatic placement is the omentum. We aimed to develop an extracellular matrix skeleton from the native pancreas that could provide a microenvironment for islet survival in an omental flap. To that end, we compared different decellularization approaches, including perfusion through the pancreatic duct, gastric artery, portal vein, and a novel method through the splenic vein. Decellularized skeletons were compared for size, residual DNA content, protein composition, histology, electron microscopy, and MR imaging after repopulation with isolated islets. Compared to the other approaches, pancreatic perfusion via the splenic vein provided smaller extracellular matrix skeletons, which facilitated transplantation into the omentum, without compromising other requirements, such as the complete depletion of cellular components and the preservation of pancreatic extracellular proteins. Repeated MR imaging of iron-oxide-labeled pancreatic islets showed that islets maintained their position in vivo for 49 days. Advanced environmental scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that islets remained integrated with the pancreatic skeleton. This novel approach represents a proof-of-concept for long-term transplantation experiments. Full article
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15 pages, 2808 KiB  
Article
Polycaprolactone-Based 3D-Printed Scaffolds as Potential Implant Materials for Tendon-Defect Repair
by Merle Kempfert, Elmar Willbold, Sebastian Loewner, Cornelia Blume, Johannes Pitts, Henning Menzel, Yvonne Roger, Andrea Hoffmann, Nina Angrisani and Janin Reifenrath
J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(4), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13040160 - 23 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1759
Abstract
Chronic tendon ruptures are common disorders in orthopedics. The conventional surgical methods used to treat them often require the support of implants. Due to the non-availability of suitable materials, 3D-printed polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds were designed from two different starting materials as suitable candidates [...] Read more.
Chronic tendon ruptures are common disorders in orthopedics. The conventional surgical methods used to treat them often require the support of implants. Due to the non-availability of suitable materials, 3D-printed polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds were designed from two different starting materials as suitable candidates for tendon-implant applications. For the characterization, mechanical testing was performed. To increase their biocompatibility, the PCL-scaffolds were plasma-treated and coated with fibronectin and collagen I. Cytocompatibility testing was performed using L929 mouse fibroblasts and human-bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. The mechanical testing showed that the design adaptions enhanced the mechanical stability. Cell attachment was increased in the plasma-treated specimens compared to the control specimens, although not significantly, in the viability tests. Coating with fibronectin significantly increased the cellular viability compared to the untreated controls. Collagen I treatment showed an increasing trend. The desired cell alignment and spread between the pores of the construct was most prominent on the collagen-I-coated specimens. In conclusion, 3D-printed scaffolds are possible candidates for the development of tendon implants. Enhanced cytocompatibility was achieved through surface modifications. Although adaptions in mechanical strength still require alterations in order to be applied to human-tendon ruptures, we are optimistic that a suitable implant can be designed. Full article
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Review

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22 pages, 2868 KiB  
Review
Ceramic Materials for Biomedical Applications: An Overview on Properties and Fabrication Processes
by Lorenzo Vaiani, Antonio Boccaccio, Antonio Emmanuele Uva, Gianfranco Palumbo, Antonio Piccininni, Pasquale Guglielmi, Stefania Cantore, Luigi Santacroce, Ioannis Alexandros Charitos and Andrea Ballini
J. Funct. Biomater. 2023, 14(3), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb14030146 - 04 Mar 2023
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6096
Abstract
A growing interest in creating advanced biomaterials with specific physical and chemical properties is currently being observed. These high-standard materials must be capable to integrate into biological environments such as the oral cavity or other anatomical regions in the human body. Given these [...] Read more.
A growing interest in creating advanced biomaterials with specific physical and chemical properties is currently being observed. These high-standard materials must be capable to integrate into biological environments such as the oral cavity or other anatomical regions in the human body. Given these requirements, ceramic biomaterials offer a feasible solution in terms of mechanical strength, biological functionality, and biocompatibility. In this review, the fundamental physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of the main ceramic biomaterials and ceramic nanocomposites are drawn, along with some primary related applications in biomedical fields, such as orthopedics, dentistry, and regenerative medicine. Furthermore, an in-depth focus on bone-tissue engineering and biomimetic ceramic scaffold design and fabrication is presented. Full article
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23 pages, 901 KiB  
Review
Conductive Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering: Current State and Future Outlook
by Damion T. Dixon and Cheryl T. Gomillion
J. Funct. Biomater. 2022, 13(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb13010001 - 21 Dec 2021
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 11645
Abstract
Bone tissue engineering strategies attempt to regenerate bone tissue lost due to injury or disease. Three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds maintain structural integrity and provide support, while improving tissue regeneration through amplified cellular responses between implanted materials and native tissues. Through this, scaffolds that show [...] Read more.
Bone tissue engineering strategies attempt to regenerate bone tissue lost due to injury or disease. Three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds maintain structural integrity and provide support, while improving tissue regeneration through amplified cellular responses between implanted materials and native tissues. Through this, scaffolds that show great osteoinductive abilities as well as desirable mechanical properties have been studied. Recently, scaffolding for engineered bone-like tissues have evolved with the use of conductive materials for increased scaffold bioactivity. These materials make use of several characteristics that have been shown to be useful in tissue engineering applications and combine them in the hope of improved cellular responses through stimulation (i.e., mechanical or electrical). With the addition of conductive materials, these bioactive synthetic bone substitutes could result in improved regeneration outcomes by reducing current factors limiting the effectiveness of existing scaffolding materials. This review seeks to overview the challenges associated with the current state of bone tissue engineering, the need to produce new grafting substitutes, and the promising future that conductive materials present towards alleviating the issues associated with bone repair and regeneration. Full article
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24 pages, 2613 KiB  
Review
Osteogenic Peptides and Attachment Methods Determine Tissue Regeneration in Modified Bone Graft Substitutes
by George Bullock, Joss Atkinson, Piergiorgio Gentile, Paul Hatton and Cheryl Miller
J. Funct. Biomater. 2021, 12(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb12020022 - 31 Mar 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3491
Abstract
The inclusion of biofunctional molecules with synthetic bone graft substitutes has the potential to enhance tissue regeneration during treatment of traumatic bone injuries. The clinical use of growth factors has though been associated with complications, some serious. The use of smaller, active peptides [...] Read more.
The inclusion of biofunctional molecules with synthetic bone graft substitutes has the potential to enhance tissue regeneration during treatment of traumatic bone injuries. The clinical use of growth factors has though been associated with complications, some serious. The use of smaller, active peptides has the potential to overcome these problems and provide a cost-effective, safe route for the manufacture of enhanced bone graft substitutes. This review considers the design of peptide-enhanced bone graft substitutes, and how peptide selection and attachment method determine clinical efficacy. It was determined that covalent attachment may reduce the known risks associated with growth factor-loaded bone graft substitutes, providing a predictable tissue response and greater clinical efficacy. Peptide choice was found to be critical, but even within recognised families of biologically active peptides, the configurations that appeared to most closely mimic the biological molecules involved in natural bone healing processes were most potent. It was concluded that rational, evidence-based design of peptide-enhanced bone graft substitutes offers a pathway to clinical maturity in this highly promising field. Full article
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17 pages, 775 KiB  
Review
Challenges and Innovations in Osteochondral Regeneration: Insights from Biology and Inputs from Bioengineering toward the Optimization of Tissue Engineering Strategies
by Pedro Morouço, Cristiana Fernandes and Wanda Lattanzi
J. Funct. Biomater. 2021, 12(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb12010017 - 27 Feb 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4851
Abstract
Due to the extremely high incidence of lesions and diseases in aging population, it is critical to put all efforts into developing a successful implant for osteochondral tissue regeneration. Many of the patients undergoing surgery present osteochondral fissure extending until the subchondral bone [...] Read more.
Due to the extremely high incidence of lesions and diseases in aging population, it is critical to put all efforts into developing a successful implant for osteochondral tissue regeneration. Many of the patients undergoing surgery present osteochondral fissure extending until the subchondral bone (corresponding to a IV grade according to the conventional radiographic classification by Berndt and Harty). Therefore, strategies for functional tissue regeneration should also aim at healing the subchondral bone and joint interface, besides hyaline cartilage. With the ambition of contributing to solving this problem, several research groups have been working intensively on the development of tailored implants that could promote that complex osteochondral regeneration. These implants may be manufactured through a wide variety of processes and use a wide variety of (bio)materials. This review aimed to examine the state of the art regarding the challenges, advantages, and drawbacks of the current strategies for osteochondral regeneration. One of the most promising approaches relies on the principles of additive manufacturing, where technologies are used that allow for the production of complex 3D structures with a high level of control, intended and predefined geometry, size, and interconnected pores, in a reproducible way. However, not all materials are suitable for these processes, and their features should be examined, targeting a successful regeneration. Full article
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