| Popis: |
Tissue-derived matrices are biomaterials generated from the extracellular matrix (ECM) of specific tissues. The ECM refers to the material in which cells of metazoan organisms are embedded. Its molecular structure is complex and involves approximately 300 proteins. The ECM serves structural functions that include tensile strength, elasticity, resisting compression, filling space, and providing hydration. In addition, the ECM also serves additional biological functions that include interaction with embedded cells and regulation of the activity of other extracellular molecules. These properties of the ECM make tissue-derived matrices promising substrates for use in tissue engineering and biomaterial design. Tissue-derived matrices can be isolated by decellularization using physical, chemical, and biological methods. Furthermore, whole organ matrices can be isolated by perfusion decellularization. Current clinically used tissue-derived matrices include pericardium-derived patches for vascular reconstruction and dermal-, liver-, and intestinal-derived biomeshes for a variety of tissue augmentation and reconstruction applications. Based on current preclinical work, tissue-derived matrices may be further functionalized by reseeding with specific cells that can fulfill additional biological functions. These functions may be generic, such as growth and self-repair, or organ-specific, such as gas exchange for bioengineered lungs or generation of pump function for bioengineered hearts. |
