BOLAND CELL NANOTECHNOLOGY

Nanotechnology, including bioengineering and tissue engineering, is important as regards biological scaffolds (cell carriers) needed for tissue transfer during cell therapies. There is a great need in the area of tissue engineering to create natural three-dimensional environments or scaffolds for better cell and tissue growth (see Biomaterials 2005, 26: 5330-5338). Electro spinning is used to fabricate the biodegradable scaffolds that are destined to carry the newly cultured cells (this could well be fibroblasts to neural cells). Scanning electron microscopy ( SEM) can be used to define the fine fibre architecture. Zong et al from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, have emphasized that electrospinning is a versatile manufacturing tool and technique for design of biomaterials with potentially recognizable architecture for cell and tissue growth (for instance fibroblasts, myoblasts and cardiomyocytes). Synthetic and natural polymers can be utilized to create the biodegradable cell matrix. The intent is to target biomedical applications, including the production of scaffolds for wound healing, drug delivery and medical implants. Interesting work has been reported by Yang et al (2004) regarding the application of nanofibrous scaffold and support of neural stem cells. These electro spun nanofibrous biological scaffolds will clearly play a significant role in neural tissue engineering (aimed at nerve and spinal cord damage). PPLLA nanostructured porous scaffolds, produced by electrospinning resemble the natural ECM in the human body. This architecture may well in the neurological field favour neurite outgrowth. Nanotechnology has also recently been considered for ligament reconstruction (see Biomaterials 26: 1261-1271, 2005). Interesting other data that has emerged is that nanotechnology is relevant to the culture and incorporation of smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. Nanotechnology and tissue engineering may well be the road ahead to address donor tissues that are often in short supply. Quality control of membranes is also important during tissue engineering to ensure proper physiological function and optimal maintenance of cell differentiation. Blood vessel tissue engineering is a critical focus of research to address aging, ischaemia and atherosclerosis. More recent work indicates that the phenotype of cells can be preserved during tissue engineering.