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Review
. 2024 Mar;19(3):135-143.
doi: 10.2217/rme-2023-0230. Epub 2024 Mar 5.

The challenges and prospects of smooth muscle tissue engineering

Christofer S Baldwin  1 , Shilpa Iyer  2 , Raj R Rao  1
Affiliations
Review

The challenges and prospects of smooth muscle tissue engineering

Christofer S Baldwin et al. Regen Med. 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Many vascular disorders arise as a result of dysfunctional smooth muscle cells. Tissue engineering strategies have evolved as key approaches to generate functional vascular smooth muscle cells for use in cell-based precision and personalized regenerative medicine approaches. This article highlights some of the challenges that exist in the field and presents some of the prospects for translating research advancements into therapeutic modalities. The article emphasizes the need for better developing synergetic intracellular and extracellular cues in the processes to generate functional vascular smooth muscle cells from different stem cell sources for use in tissue engineering strategies.

Keywords: biochemical; biophysical; cardiovascular; mitochondria; regenerative engineering • smooth muscles; stem cells; tissue engineering.

Plain language summary

This paper explores the potential of engineering smooth muscle tissues to treat vascular diseases, focusing on challenges like sourcing the right cells and creating supportive environments for cell growth. It highlights advances in materials that mimic the body's conditions and the use of 3D fabrication methods for creating complex structures. Additionally, it discusses the significance of mitochondrial function in blood vessel muscle cells. The research emphasizes interdisciplinary efforts and personalized treatments as key to developing effective therapies. The goal is to engineer lab-grown tissues that can repair or replace damaged blood vessels, offering hope for addressing major health challenges associated with vascular diseases.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests disclosure

The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, stock ownership or options and expert testimony.

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