Interface tissue engineering and the formulation of multiple-tissue systems

Abstract

Interface tissue engineering is an exciting field which focuses on the development of tissue engineered grafts capable of promoting integration between different types of tissue and between the implant and surrounding tissue. Focusing on interface tissue engineering, and using the insertion site between the anterior cruciate ligament and bone as an example, this chapter discusses strategies in soft tissue to bone integration as well as current tissue engineering efforts in this area. This review begins with the clinical significance of this problem, followed by a review of existing fixation methods, and tissue engineering efforts aimed at addressing this critical issue. The development of multiphased scaffolds designed for the replacement of more than one type of tissue, as well as novel in vitro co-culture systems will be introduced. Future directions in the field of interface tissue engineering will also be discussed.