Biomaterials Regulating Cell Function and Tissue Development

The primary goal of tissue engineering is to create natural living tissue to restore normal mechanical, metabolic or aesthetic function to an individual. The appropriate design of biomaterials, however, plays a key role in regulating cell behavior and tissue response, and is a key part of tissue regeneration strategy. Consequently, the realm of tissue engineering has come to encompass many materials-based disciplines. This book focuses on the modification and characterization of both natural and synthetic materials to alter the human body's regenerative response. More specifically, the volume consists of three sections. The design, preclinical and clinical evaluation of biomaterials and biomaterial-cell constructs aimed at functional tissue reconstruction is the primary focus of Part I. Control of cell interactions by tailoring biomaterial chemistry or surface properties is highlighted in Part II. Part III features orthopedic applications of cell interactive biomaterials.