Advanced three-dimensional platforms for tissue regeneration: when microenvironment matters

A number of recent studies have shed light on the intimate relationship between cells and their surroundings not only in physiological conditions but also in artificial micro-environments. These are often three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds or supportive materials which host organoids or (stem) cell colonies and are powerful resources for studying the behavior of single cells, cell-cell interactions, and how cells bio-mechanically interplay with materials and structures. Moreover, it is generally acknowledged that three-dimensionality, together with suitable biochemical cues, also plays a pivotal role in guiding cells to develop organized constructs resembling native tissues. However, several mechanisms underlying the successful organization of (stem) cells toward complex (e.g. multi-layered) patterns are still unknown or poorly mastered, which limits the potential of 3D micro-scaffolds as sources for regenerating tissues.

This Research Topic aims at collecting the most novel progresses in 3D micro-environments, broadly intended as synthetic or naturally-derived, variously fabricated and functionalized milieus, whose aim is to promote the development of tissues for regenerative purposes. In particular, the collection intends to gather new knowledge about how dimensionality, structure, and possible post-production modifications influence cells behaviors in the regenerative processes.

These factors cooperate not only in micro-structured scaffolds but also in gel-based growth media which chemo-mechanically support cell expansion. Therefore, the palette of possible approaches to address the regeneration challenge is significantly broad, with multi-disciplinary techniques and methods required to achieve the optimal conditions for enhancing regeneration and to fulfill the regulatory aspects concerning in vivo applications. Development of new biomaterials, innovation in scaffolds fabrication and characterization methods, as well as progress in stem cells differentiation protocols contribute from different perspectives to reproducing the physiological conditions which favor tissue development.

The main areas covered by this Research Topic include, but are not limited to:
(i) novel 3D micro-scaffolds fabrication;
(ii) (precision) biomaterials design and characterization;
(iii) innovative organoid cultures;
(iv) cell-structure and/or cell-material interaction studies;
(v) bioprinting, lab on chip and other integrated approaches;
(vi) regulatory aspects and clinical trials.

In all cases, the proposed research should be specifically aimed at regenerating tissues (of any kind), either for in vitro or in vivo applications. Papers reporting clinical trials will also be subjected to revision, if within the scope of the Research Topic.

Authors are encouraged to submit either original research manuscripts or (mini-)reviews collecting state-of-the-art contributions in the aforementioned fields.

Keywords: 3D scaffolds, organoids, stem cells, microfabrication, bioprinting, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, tissue replacement, development, 3D cell culture, biomaterials, layered scaffolds, precision biomaterials

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.