Smart biomaterials - regulating cell behavior through signaling molecules

Abstract

Important advances in the field of tissue engineering are arising from increased interest in novel biomaterial designs with bioactive components that directly influence cell behavior. Following the recent work of Mitchell and co-workers published in BMC Biology, we review how spatial and temporal control of signaling molecules in a matrix material regulates cellular responses for tissue-specific applications.

Figure 1

Examples of signaling molecules modulating cell behavior in bioactive materials for tissue engineering. The ability of cells to respond to the biomaterial in a controllable manner is a decisive factor in successful disease treatments using engineered implant materials. Signaling molecules involve multifunctional proteins such as growth factors and cytokines, as well as small molecules like neurotransmitters.