Arch Plast Surg.  2014 May;41(3):231-240. 10.5999/aps.2014.41.3.231.

Nanotechnology Biomimetic Cartilage Regenerative Scaffolds

• Lim EH
• Sardinha J
• Myers S

• KMID: 2120868
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2014.41.3.231

Abstract

Cartilage has a limited regenerative capacity. Faced with the clinical challenge of reconstruction of cartilage defects, the field of cartilage engineering has evolved. This article reviews current concepts and strategies in cartilage engineering with an emphasis on the application of nanotechnology in the production of biomimetic cartilage regenerative scaffolds. The structural architecture and composition of the cartilage extracellular matrix and the evolution of tissue engineering concepts and scaffold technology over the last two decades are outlined. Current advances in biomimetic techniques to produce nanoscaled fibrous scaffolds, together with innovative methods to improve scaffold biofunctionality with bioactive cues are highlighted. To date, the majority of research into cartilage regeneration has been focused on articular cartilage due to the high prevalence of large joint osteoarthritis in an increasingly aging population. Nevertheless, the principles and advances are applicable to cartilage engineering for plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Keyword

Nanotechnology; Biomimetics; Cartilage; Tissue scaffolds; Guided tissue regeneration

MeSH Terms

Aging
Biomimetics*
Cartilage*
Cartilage, Articular
Cues
Extracellular Matrix
Guided Tissue Regeneration
Joints
Nanotechnology*
Osteoarthritis
Prevalence
Regeneration
Tissue Engineering
Tissue Scaffolds