SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FORMING PATTERNED EXTRACELLULAR MATRIX MATERIALS

摘要

An extracellular matrix (ECM)-based scaffold suitable for artificial skin as well as other structures can be formed using a bioreactor fabricated with a pattern that introduces desired structural features, on the microscale and/or nanoscale, to ECM-precursors gelled in the bioreactor. The bioreactor can produce a finely patterned scaffold - over clinically relevant size scales - sufficiently robust for routine handling. Preformed ECM-based scaffolds can also have microscale and/or nano-scale structural features introduced into a surface thereof. ECM-based scaffolds may be formed with well-defined structural features via microetching and/or remodeling via 'contact degradation.' A surface-activated pattern can be used to degrade the ECM-based scaffold at contact regions between the pattern and the ECM. The produced ECM-based scaffolds can have structures of dimensions conducive to host tissue ingrowth while preserving the fibrous structure and ligand density of natural ECMs.