In vivo microscopic and mechanical characteristics of bioengineered and biodegradable tissue scaffolds and nanomaterials
Abstract
A number of growth and differentiation factors are involved during tissue healing to restore cells, tissue matrix, and microvascular bed. These processes may be targeted and promoted by in vivo implantation of bioengineered meshes and fibres.
This chapter reviews chemical composition, dimensions, surface modifications and spatial properties (spacing and porosity) of these scaffolds. We present modifications of the scaffolds that affect adhesion, migration, proliferation and differentiation of cells as well as formation of new extracellular matrix.
We give an overview of biomechanical methods characterizing biomaterials prior and after in vivo implantation. We give examples of studies performed using animal models for in vivo evaluation of biomaterials.
We present four histological analyses of in vivo experiments with implanted biomaterials, namely healing of hyaline cartilage, healing of skin wounds, healing of abdominal closure, and implantation of arterial banding. Next, we review present methods for histological evaluation of biodegradability of nanomaterials.