The development of polymeric biomaterials inspired by the extracellular matrix

The field of biomaterials science has exhibited astounding growth during the last half century. This growth can be attributed to a more thorough understanding of cellular behaviours, new mechanistic insights into cell-materials interactions, advances in polymer synthesis, and the development of innovative fabrication techniques. This progress has enabled biomaterials to transition from materials that fill in for damaged or diseased tissues to implants that actively work with biology to aid in the healing process. In this review, we will discuss several of these advances including emerging knowledge on mechanotransduction, the use of substrate topography in modulating cellular behaviour, and the incorporation of bioactive molecules to foster specific cellular adhesion, promote tissue morphogenesis, and enable biologically driven degradation. We will then consider future challenges and directions in the field.