Engineering Spatiotemporal Control in Vascularized Tissues

Abstract

A major challenge in engineering scalable three-dimensional tissues is the generation of a functional and developed microvascular network for adequate perfusion of oxygen and growth factors. Current biological approaches to creating vascularized tissues include the use of vascular cells, soluble factors, and instructive biomaterials. Angiogenesis and the subsequent generation of a functional vascular bed within engineered tissues has gained attention and is actively being studied through combinations of physical and chemical signals, specifically through the presentation of topographical growth factor signals. The spatiotemporal control of angiogenic signals can generate vascular networks in large and dense engineered tissues. This review highlights the developments and studies in the spatiotemporal control of these biological approaches through the coordinated orchestration of angiogenic factors, differentiation of vascular cells, and microfabrication of complex vascular networks. Fabrication strategies to achieve spatiotemporal control of vascularization involves the incorporation or encapsulation of growth factors, topographical engineering approaches, and 3D bioprinting techniques. In this article, we highlight the vascularization of engineered tissues, with a focus on vascularized cardiac patches that are clinically scalable for myocardial repair. Finally, we discuss the present challenges for successful clinical translation of engineered tissues and biomaterials.

Technology for the formation of engineered microvascular network models and their biomedical applications

“…Several methods have been developed to replicate this process by incorporating growth factors into biomaterials to manage vascular growth and development in vitro. The signaling proteins that predominantly affect angiogenesis are vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) [ 140 ]. Son et al mapped the topography of the growth factor gradient using growth factor-secreting cells.…”

Macro, Micro, and Nano-Inspired Bioactive Polymeric Biomaterials in Therapeutic, and Regenerative Orofacial Applications

“… 83 They allow enough time to form neo matrix and progressive re-assimilation via protease activity. 84 Fibrin can be employed as a biological framework with other elements to regenerate primary cells, skin, bones, and so on. 85 Nevertheless, it has the disadvantage of quick degradation, which makes it unsuitable for creating particular scaffolds.…”

Polysaccharides and Structural Proteins as Components in Three-Dimensional Scaffolds for Breast Cancer Tissue Models: A Review

“…It has also been demonstrated that EVs contribute to the increase of drug resistance of cancer cells [ 146 ]. On the other hand, signaling proteins have been mentioned regarding the vascularization of scaffolds and tissue models [ 147 ].…”