Auricular repair: symphony between scaffolds and stem cells

Although stem cell technology has demonstrated considerable potential in correcting external auditory canal defects, conventional 2D differentiation techniques do not adequately replicate the in situ microenvironment, thereby hindering auricular chondrocyte differentiation. By contrast, 3D tissue-engineered scaffolds combined with bioprinting can delicately mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM), spatiotemporally releasing bioactive molecules in a controlled manner, thus enhancing stem cell differentiation. However, the mechanisms by which these scaffolds promote auricular chondrogenic differentiation remain largely unexplored. This review provides an overview of advancements in stem cell and tissue-engineered scaffolds for ear cartilage regeneration. By bridging the gap between cellular differentiation and material design, this review underscores how integrating bioengineering with developmental biology can facilitate auricular repair, offering novel strategies for the advancement of regenerative medicine.