Challenges in Soft Tissue Engineering

ABSTRACT

Soft tissue engineering strategies targeting restoration of volume loss have inherent critical challenges as they relate to the problem of restoration of defects with a high volume to surface ratio. We outline the problems associated with the limitations of translational applications regarding soft tissue engineering strategies as follows: cell survival, mechanical challenges: macroenvironment (scaffold collapse and on-the-shelf availability), compositional considerations: microenvironment, inducing malignant behavior, cell migration, and cell exhaustion. These are discussed with our alternative suggestions for solutions.

KEYWORDS

Soft tissue engineering - tissue engineering - high volume reconstruction - matrix gradient - multilayered matrix - matrix clearance - breast tissue engineering

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