Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine as applied to the gastrointestinal tract

Abstract

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a complex system characterized by multiple cell types with a determined architectural arrangement. Tissue engineering of the GI tract aims to reinstate the architecture and function of all structural layers. The key point for successful tissue regeneration includes the use of cells/biomaterials that elucidate minimal immune response after implantation. Different biomaterial choices and cell sources have been proposed to engineer the GI tract. This review summarizes the recent advances in bioengineering the GI tract with emphasis on cell sources and scaffolding biomaterials.

Temporal and spatial analysis of enteric nervous system regeneration in the sea cucumber Holothuria glaberrima

“…It is possible that factors similar to what have been found in other species are released from the extrinsic or intrinsic nerves and are involved in the formation of the new intestine. On the other hand is the increasing number of bioengineering studies aimed at obtaining functional intestines for transplantation (Bitar & Raghavan ; Orlando et al ; Bitar & Zakhem ). Studies of ENS regeneration could provide insights into the type of cells needed or the timing at which ENS precursors should be incorporated to develop a functional organ.…”

Advances in Neo-Innervation of the Gut

“…Therefore, the factors involved in enteric neural subset activation must be identified so that the efficacy of restoring specific neural subsets can be tested. Recently, the use of stem cells or neural progenitor cells for the treatment of enteric neuropathies has gained a great deal of attention [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28]. Preclinical studies are generating exciting results regarding the use of regenerative medicine for the treatment for ENS disorders and will be addressed next.…”

Chitosan Hydrogels for Regenerative Engineering

“…Surgery is the commonly used method for the treatment of intestinal diseases but it has the limitation of not being a long-term solution. Several regenerative strategies are currently under investigation [133]. Rabbani et al used an innovative approach to repair intestinal fistulas using chitosan hydrogels.…”