About this Research Topic
Recent advancements in biomimetic nano- and micro-technologies have revolutionized the field of in vitro modelling and tissue engineering, offering unprecedented opportunities to recreate the complex architecture and functionality of living tissues in a laboratory setting. Unlike traditional 2D cell cultures, 3D models better replicate the physiological environment of living tissues and organs. They offer more realistic spatial organization, cell-cell interactions, and nutrient/oxygen gradients, which are crucial for studying complex biological processes and accurately assessing drug responses. Moreover, 3D in vitro models provide a platform for studying disease mechanisms in a more physiologically relevant context, better reflecting the in vivo conditions. By replicating tissue architecture and cellular interactions, these models offer insights into disease progression, pathophysiology, and the efficacy of potential therapeutics with greater accuracy than traditional models.
The goal of this collection is to highlight the latest developments in the design, fabrication, and application of biomimetic approaches for constructing intricate 3D in vitro models and engineering functional tissues. This Research Topic focuses on the role of advanced nano- and microtechnology in enabling the fabrication of biomimetic scaffolds with features that mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues and on the integration of nano- and microtechnological systems to provide functional properties to the models. For example, nanotechnology enables the integration of biosensors and diagnostic platforms into 3D in vitro models for real-time monitoring of biochemical and biophysical parameters, such as the production of specific biomolecules, pH changes, oxygen levels, and mechanical forces within tissue constructs, providing valuable insights into cellular responses and disease progression. Nanomaterials, such as nanofibers, nanocomposites, and hydrogels, can be engineered to mimic the biochemical and mechanical properties of native tissues, promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation for tissue regeneration and repair. Nano- and microscale fabrication techniques, such as microfluidics and 3D bioprinting, allow for the precise patterning of vascular structures within engineered tissues, enhancing their viability and functionality.
The articles of this collection, both in the form of reviews or research articles, cover a broad spectrum of topics, including novel biomaterials with tunable properties for mimicking the ECM, innovative microfabrication techniques for precise control over cellular microenvironments, and cutting-edge biofabrication strategies for building complex 3D tissue constructs. Additionally, the collection explores the integration of biomimetic nano- and micro-structures, such as nanoparticles and nanofibers, into in vitro models to enhance cellular interactions, signaling, and functionality.
The insights gathered from these studies hold significant promise for advancing our understanding of tissue physiology, disease mechanisms, and drug responses, as well as for facilitating the development of personalized medicine and regenerative therapies. Overall, this collection underscores the transformative potential of biomimetic nano- and micro-technologies in advancing the field of in vitro modelling and tissue engineering, paving the way for the development of next-generation biomedical applications with unprecedented complexity and functionality.
The goal of this collection is to highlight the latest developments in the design, fabrication, and application of biomimetic approaches for constructing intricate 3D in vitro models and engineering functional tissues. This Research Topic focuses on the role of advanced nano- and microtechnology in enabling the fabrication of biomimetic scaffolds with features that mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues and on the integration of nano- and microtechnological systems to provide functional properties to the models. For example, nanotechnology enables the integration of biosensors and diagnostic platforms into 3D in vitro models for real-time monitoring of biochemical and biophysical parameters, such as the production of specific biomolecules, pH changes, oxygen levels, and mechanical forces within tissue constructs, providing valuable insights into cellular responses and disease progression. Nanomaterials, such as nanofibers, nanocomposites, and hydrogels, can be engineered to mimic the biochemical and mechanical properties of native tissues, promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation for tissue regeneration and repair. Nano- and microscale fabrication techniques, such as microfluidics and 3D bioprinting, allow for the precise patterning of vascular structures within engineered tissues, enhancing their viability and functionality.
The articles of this collection, both in the form of reviews or research articles, cover a broad spectrum of topics, including novel biomaterials with tunable properties for mimicking the ECM, innovative microfabrication techniques for precise control over cellular microenvironments, and cutting-edge biofabrication strategies for building complex 3D tissue constructs. Additionally, the collection explores the integration of biomimetic nano- and micro-structures, such as nanoparticles and nanofibers, into in vitro models to enhance cellular interactions, signaling, and functionality.
The insights gathered from these studies hold significant promise for advancing our understanding of tissue physiology, disease mechanisms, and drug responses, as well as for facilitating the development of personalized medicine and regenerative therapies. Overall, this collection underscores the transformative potential of biomimetic nano- and micro-technologies in advancing the field of in vitro modelling and tissue engineering, paving the way for the development of next-generation biomedical applications with unprecedented complexity and functionality.
Keywords: Nanotechnology, Microtechnology, In vitro Models, Tissue Engineering, Biomimetism, Bioinspiration
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
