ABSTRACT
The incorporation of polymeric scaffolds in tissue regeneration occurred in the early 1980s, and it continues to play a vital role in tissue engineering [1-3]. The function of a degradable scaffold is to act as a temporary support matrix for transplanted or host cells so as to restore, maintain, or improve tissue. Scaffolds may be created from various types of materials, including polymers. There are two main classes of polymers, based upon their source: natural or synthetic. Polymeric scaffolds may be used to support a variety of cells for numerous tissues within the body. The design of a polymeric scaffold plays a significant role in proper cell growth. Therefore, several important properties must be considered: fabrication, structure, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical strength. This review will discuss natural and synthetic polymers, as well as the properties that scaffolds exhibit.
