HA is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in connective tissues. The human body contains approximately 15g of HA, with 30% undergoing degradation. HA forms hydrated gels when bound to water molecules
Robert Langer initially studied chemical engineering without understanding its fundamentals. He combined engineering and medicine at Children's Hospital. His idea for tissue engineering came at age 25-28. He worked with Judah Folkman as a postdoctoral fellow
Tissue is an aggregate of cells with similar structure and function. Histology studies tissues using microscopes. Cells in multicellular organisms usually function together
3D bioprinting uses biological materials to create functional implants and test devices. Technology began with Gabor Forgacs' observation of cell organization. Biocompatible materials began being used in regenerative healthcare around 2000
Scaffolds support cell growth and facilitate nutrient transport. Natural scaffolds include hydrogels that mimic ECM but have poor mechanical properties. Synthetic scaffolds offer better control but lack cell recognition sites. Composites combine different materials to improve mechanical properties
Tissue engineering combines scaffolds, cells and bioactive molecules to create functional tissues. Global market reached USD 5 billion in 2016, expected to reach USD 11.5 billion by 2022. North America leads market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific