(394a) Regenerative Engineering: The Present and Future of Tissue Regeneration

We define Regenerative Engineering as a Convergence of Advanced Materials Science, Stem Cell Science, Physics, Developmental Biology, and Clinical Translation. Our focus has been musculoskeletal tissue regeneration and involves a transdisciplinary approach. Polymeric nanofiber systems create the prospect for biomimetics that recapitulate connective tissue ultrastructure allowing for the design of biomechanically functional matrices, or next generation matrices that create a niche for stem cell activity. Polymer and polymer-ceramic systems can be utilized for the regeneration of bone. Hybrid matrices possessing micro and nano architecture can create advantageous systems for regeneration, while the use of classic principles of materials science and engineering can lead to the development of three dimensional systems suitable for functional regeneration of tissues of the knee. Engineered systems for soft tissues take advantage of architectural, biomechanical and biochemical cues. Principles found in embryological development and in developmental morphogenesis will ultimately be critical for addressing grand challenges in regeneration. Drug Delivery approaches utilize conventional and unconventional concepts. Through the deep integration of a number of technologies, we can approach regeneration in a more holistic way.