The Extracellular Matrix as a Biologic Scaffold for Tissue Engineering

This chapter describes the composition and organization of extracellular matrix (ECM) in tissues and organs. It also identifies the utility of scaffolds derived from ECM in the field of tissue engineering and comprehends the importance of mechanical behavior and mechanical design in the use of ECM scaffolds for tissue repair. Scaffolds composed of extracellular matrix are useful in many tissue engineering applications throughout the body. The scaffolds promote constructive remodeling of host tissue and elicit various biologic responses including angiogenesis, chemotaxis, and antimicrobial properties. Scaffolds are used to support the constructive remodeling of injured or missing tissues or organs that can be composed of synthetic or naturally occurring materials. Such scaffolds can be degradable or non-degradable, and these scaffolds can be engineered to have specific mechanical and material properties that closely approximate those of the tissue to be replaced.