Decellularized tissues as platforms for digestive system cancer models

Synergistic strategies in tissue engineering: The role of exosomes and decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels

Tissue engineering aims to mimic the natural microenvironment of biological structures by utilizing the distinctive characteristics of extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds. The combination of decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels (dECMHs) with exosomes (EXs) represents an innovative therapeutic approach for tissue regeneration. These dECMHs, sourced from diverse tissues, provide biocompatible scaffolds that conform to irregular defect geometries, thereby addressing the limitations of conventional ECM scaffolds. EXs, which are nanovesicles secreted by virtually all cells, play crucial role in cell communication and tissue regeneration. However, their short half-life presents challenges for systemic administration. The incorporation of EXs into dECMHs enables localized and prolonged release, thereby enhancing their therapeutic merits. This review thoroughly explains the techniques for decellularization, the characteristics of dECM, as well as the preparation and applications of dECMHs in tissue engineering. It also explores the synergistic effects of EX-dECMH systems on cellular activities essential for tissue repair, including proliferation, differentiation, and neovascularization. The mechanisms of EX release from dECMHs and their applications in the regeneration of skin, intervertebral disc, cartilage, and nerve tissues are elucidated, highlighting the considerable potential of this integrated strategy to improve tissue engineering techniques. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of EX-dECMH systems in tissue healing is investigated. Finally, the limitations associated with the clinical application of EX, dECM, and dECMH as well as the future prospect are included.

Three-dimensional in vitro models in head and neck cancer: current trends and applications

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is the sixth most prevalent malignancy worldwide and includes a variety of upper gastrointestinal abnormalities. HNC includes oral, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, and salivary gland cancers. Squamous cells in the mouth, nose, and throat cause HNC. Drugs, alcohol, poor diets, smoking, and genetics all contribute to this condition. Cancer research has focused on three-dimensional (3D) models in HNC biology in recent decades. An adequate microenvironmental system and cancer cell culture are the initial steps to understanding cancer cells' complicated interactions with their surroundings. New 3D models claim to bridge in vivo and in vitro investigations and erase the gap. Interdisciplinary cell biology and tissue engineering researchers are creating 3D cancer tissue models to better understand the illness and develop more accurate cancer medicines. Tissue engineering researchers, who are always exploring novel approaches to treat cancer, have been able to include the third dimension into laboratory settings and mimic cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions by recreating the tumor microenvironment using 3D models and so make research on cancer easier. This review addresses recent developments in tissue engineering with an emphasis on 3D models in HNC.

Interlacing biology and engineering: An introduction to textiles and their application in tissue engineering

Tissue engineering (TE) aims to provide personalized solutions for tissue loss caused by trauma, tumors, or congenital defects. While traditional methods like autologous and homologous tissue transplants face challenges such as donor shortages and risk of donor site morbidity, TE provides a viable alternative using scaffolds, cells, and biologically active molecules. Textiles represent a promising scaffold option for both in-vitro and in-situ TE applications. Textile engineering is a broad field and can be divided into fiber-based textiles and yarn-based textiles. In fiber-based textiles the textile fabric is produced in the same step as the fibers (e.g. non-wovens, electrospun mats and 3D-printed). For yarn-based textiles, yarns are produced from fibers or filaments first and then, a textile fabric is produced (e.g. woven, weft-knitted, warp-knitted and braided fabrics). The selection of textile scaffold technology depends on the target tissue, mechanical requirements, and fabrication methods, with each approach offering distinct advantages. Braided scaffolds, with their high tensile strength, are ideal for load-bearing tissues like tendons and ligaments, while their ability to form stable hollow lumens makes them suitable for vascular applications. Weaving, weft-, and warp-knitting provide tunable structural properties, with warp-knitting offering the greatest design flexibility. Spacer fabrics enable complex 3D architecture, benefiting applications such as skin grafts and multilayered tissues. Electrospinning, though highly effective in mimicking the ECM, is structurally limited. The complex interactions between materials, fiber properties, and textile technologies allows for scaffolds with a wide range of morphological and mechanical characteristics (e.g., tensile strength of woven textiles ranging from 0.64 to 180.4 N/mm2). With in-depth knowledge, textiles can be tailored to obtain specific mechanical properties as accurately as possible and aid the formation of functional tissue. However, as textile structures inherently differ from biological tissues, careful optimization is required to enhance cell behavior, mechanical performance, and clinical applicability. This review is intended for TE experts interested in using textiles as scaffolds and provides a detailed analysis of the available options, their characteristics and known applications. For this, first the major fiber formation methods are introduced, then subsequent used automated textile technologies are presented, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Finally, we analyze how these textile and fiber structures are utilized in TE, organized by the use of textiles in TE across major organ systems, including the nervous, skin, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and musculoskeletal systems.