Stem cell-based organ replacements-airway and lung tissue engineering

Abstract

Tissue engineering requires the use of cells seeded onto scaffolds, often in conjunction with bioactive molecules, to regenerate or replace tissues. Significant advances have been made in recent years within the fields of stem cell biology and biomaterials, leading to some exciting developments in airway tissue engineering, including the first use of stem cell-based tissue-engineered tracheal replacements in humans. In addition, recent advances within the fields of scaffold biology and decellularization offer the potential to transplant patients without the use of immunosuppression.

Keywords: Airway management; Artificial organs; Biocompatible materials; Bioreactors; Larynx; Regenerative medicine; Stem cells; Tissue engineering; Tissue scaffolds; Trachea; Transplantation.