ABSTRACT
With the advent of novel fabrication techniques of materials and composites in areas of tissue engineering, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, an understanding and appreciation of recent developments in the field is paramount in order to further propel the science forward. It is well known that for in vivo applications, a material must offer a multitude of factors for adequate response including: (1) biocompatibility, (2) biomimicry, (3) bioactivity, and, in certain applications, (4) biodegradability. These variables are dependent on the material’s source/synthesis, mechanical/morphological characteristics, functionality, and hydrophilic moieties, respectively. A further factor is the level of porosity throughout the structure which determines the efficiency of not only cellular attachment, proliferation, and morphogenesis, but also the overall mechanical response of the biocomposite substrate. While adequate porosity allows for complete cellular penetration and in-growth into the bulk material, highly porous materials have decreased mechanical properties and hindered cellular reaction, among other responses. In this chapter, we highlight the current research relevant to understanding the effect of these variables on the cellular and mechanical responses of bio-composite substrates, paying particular attention to the porosity of the construct and the desired advancements to further enhance the bioefficiency of these scaffolds.
