Nanotechnological Strategies for Engineering Complex Tissues

The article, entitled 'Nanotechnological Strategies for Engineering Complex Tissues' is freely available online through Nature Nanotechnology at the following address: http://www.nature.com/nnano/index.html

Abstract:

Tissue engineering aims at developing functional substitutes for damaged tissues and organs. Before transplantation, cells are generally seeded on biomaterial scaffolds that racaptiulate the extracellular matrix and provide cells with information that is important for tissue development. Here we review the nanocomposite nature of the extracellular matrix, describe the design considerations for different tissues and discuss the impact of nanostructures on the properties of scaffolds and their uses in monitoring the behaviour of engineered tissues. We also examine the different nanodevices used to trigger certain processes for tissue development, and offer our view on the principal challenges and prospects of applying nanotechnology in tissue engineering.