[Research progress of scaffold materials for tissue engineered meniscus].

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Orthopedic Research

Background:

• The meniscus plays a crucial role in knee joint function.
• Meniscus injuries are common and often lead to osteoarthritis.
• Current treatment options have limitations, driving the need for tissue engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze the advancements in scaffold materials for tissue engineered meniscus.
• To understand the characteristics and limitations of different scaffold types.
• To identify future research directions in meniscus tissue engineering.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of domestic and international research.
• Classification of scaffold materials based on their composition.
• Analysis of bionic design principles applied to meniscus scaffolds.

Main Results:

• Scaffold materials include synthetic polymers, hydrogels, extracellular matrix components, and tissue-derived materials.
• Single materials have disadvantages; composite scaffolds offer synergistic benefits and are a key research focus.
• Bionic design, mimicking meniscus structure and mechanics, holds significant potential.

Conclusions:

• A variety of scaffold materials are available for tissue engineered meniscus.
• No single material currently replicates the natural meniscus perfectly.
• Further research is essential to develop ideal meniscus scaffold materials.