Biomaterial-Based Regenerative Strategies for Volumetric Muscle Loss: Challenges and Solutions

Significance: Volumetric muscle loss (VML) is caused by the loss of significant amounts of skeletal muscle tissue. VML cannot be repaired by intrinsic regenerative processes, resulting in permanent loss of muscle function and disability. Current rehabilitative-focused treatment strategies lack efficacy and do not restore muscle function, indicating the need for the development of effective regenerative strategies. Recent Advances: Recent developments implicate biomaterial-based approaches for promoting muscle repair and functional restoration post-VML. Specifically, bioscaffolds transplanted in the injury site have been utilized to mimic endogenous cues of the ablated tissue to promote myogenic pathways, increase neo-myofiber synthesis, and ultimately restore contractile function to the injured unit. Critical Issues: Despite the development and preclinical testing of various biomaterial-based regenerative strategies, effective therapies for patients are not available. The unique challenges posed for biomaterial-based treatments of VML injuries, including its scalability and clinical applicability beyond small-animal models, impede progress. Furthermore, production of tissue-engineered constructs is technically demanding, with reproducibility issues at scale and complexities in achieving vascularization and innervation of large constructs. Future Directions: Biomaterial-based regenerative strategies designed to comprehensively address the pathophysiology of VML are needed. Considerations for clinical translation, including scalability and regulatory compliance, should also be considered when developing such strategies. In addition, an integrated approach that combines regenerative and rehabilitative strategies is essential for ensuring functional improvement.