Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
L -lactideunits,andexhibitsarubber-likeelasticityinitsphysically
cross-linked structure. This very elastic PLCL copolymer has also
been fabricated as a macroporous scaffold for tissue engineering
applications. PLCL has been fabricated for microporous scaffolds
using a variety of techniques such as extrusion-particulate leach-
ing, gel spinning, freeze drying, and electrospinning. This chapter
discussessomeoftherecentinsightintothefabricationandappli-
cation of PLCL scaffolds for tissue engineering.
27.1 Introduction
It is well known that mechanical stimulation regulates the spe-
cialized structures and functions of mammalian cells, tissues, and
organs. Mechanical stresses primarily originate either from tension
that is caused by cells themselves or from the extracellular matrix
(ECM) through cell adhesion. Significant recent progress has been
achieved through studies of cardiovascular tissues and skeletal tis-
sues, such as bone and articular cartilage, in mechanical, stress-
related cell biology. 1 - 3
The field of tissue engineering has progressed to develop
means of regenerating damaged tissues and organs using cells
and scaffolds. The fundamental role of a scaffold is not only
to provide a temporary substrate on which transplanted cells
can adhere but also to maintain mechanical integrity during the
healing process and to deliver appropriate mechanical signals
to adherent cells that ultimately comprise dynamic physiologi-
cal systems. 4 - 7 Within tissue engineering, strategies concerning
the mechanical environment of cells or tissues have emerged,
and the resulting field has been termed “mechano-active tissue
engineering.” Specific examples include the development of elas-
tic, mechano-active scaffolds that transmit mechanical stimulation
to cells or protect cells from mechanical forces for use in vas-
cular and cartilage tissue engineering. The mechanical properties
of native blood vessels and of cartilage provide researchers with
key design elements to apply in properly developing a scaffold
that will function under conditions similar to those of the native
tissues.
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search