Graphene is the thinnest two-dimensional (2D), only one carbon atom thick, but one of the strongest biomaterials. Due to its unique structure, it has many unique properties used in tissue engineering of the nervous system, such as high strength, flexibility, adequate softness, electrical conductivity, antibacterial effect, and the ability to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Graphene is also characterized by the possibility of modifications that allow for even wider application and adaptation to cell cultures of specific cells and tissues, both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, by using the patient's own cells for cell culture, it will be possible to produce tissues and organs that can be re-transplanted without transplant rejection, the negative effects of taking immunosuppressive drugs, and waiting for an appropriate organ donor.
Advanced techniques of reconstructive urology are gradually reaching their limits in terms of their ability to restore urinary tract function and patients’ quality of life. A tissue engineering-based approach to urinary tract reconstruction, utilizing cells and biomaterials, offers an opportunity to overcome current limitations. Although tissue engineering studies have been heralding the imminent introduction of this method into clinics for over a decade, tissue engineering is only marginally applied. In this review, we discuss the role of tissue engineering in reconstructive urology and try to answer the question of why such a promising technology has not proven its clinical usability so far.
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