3D structural patterns in scalable, elastomeric scaffolds guide engineered tissue architecture

Abstract

Microfabricated elastomeric scaffolds with 3D structural patterns are created by semiautomated layer-by-layer assembly of planar polymer sheets with through-pores. The mesoscale interconnected pore architectures governed by the relative alignment of layers are shown to direct cell and muscle-like fiber orientation in both skeletal and cardiac muscle, enabling scale up of tissue constructs towards clinically relevant dimensions.

Keywords: alignment; heart; microfabrication; muscle; polyglycerol sebacate (PGS).