Biofabrication methods for reconstructing extracellular matrix mimetics

• Published in: Bioactive materials 2024-01, Vol.31, p.475-496
• Main Authors: Aazmi, Abdellah, Zhang, Duo, Mazzaglia, Corrado, Yu, Mengfei, Wang, Zhen, Yang, Huayong, Huang, Yan Yan Shery, Ma, Liang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biofabrication; Bioprinting; Electrospinning; Extracellular matrix; Organ-on-a-Chip; Review
• ISSN: 2452-199X; 2452-199X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2023.08.018

In the human body, almost all cells interact with extracellular matrices (ECMs), which have tissue and organ-specific compositions and architectures. These ECMs not only function as cellular scaffolds, providing structural support, but also play a crucial role in dynamically regulating various cellular functions. This comprehensive review delves into the examination of biofabrication strategies used to develop bioactive materials that accurately mimic one or more biophysical and biochemical properties of ECMs. We discuss the potential integration of these ECM-mimics into a range of physiological and pathological in vitro models, enhancing our understanding of cellular behavior and tissue organization. Lastly, we propose future research directions for ECM-mimics in the context of tissue engineering and organ-on-a-chip applications, offering potential advancements in therapeutic approaches and improved patient outcomes. [Display omitted] •ECM are dynamic structures undergo continuous changes.•ECM can be mimicked using natural polymers, synthetic polymers or decellularized ECM.•Four biofabrication methods can be used to construct the ECM-mimics.•Distinct ECM-like models have been developed in line with the specific function and structure of the original tissue.