Evaluation Strategies for Tissue-engineered Tracheas: From In Vitro Characterization to In Vivo Assessment

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• The trachea is vital for respiration, but defects pose significant clinical challenges.
• Current tracheal reconstruction methods have limitations in feasibility and outcomes.
• Tissue-engineered tracheal scaffolds (TETs), especially 3D bioprinted ones, offer potential solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review current in vitro and in vivo evaluation methodologies for 3D-printed TETs.
• To assess the safety, biocompatibility, mechanical integrity, and functional performance of these scaffolds.
• To propose essential components for a standardized preclinical evaluation framework for TETs.

Main Methods:

• Systematic analysis of existing in vitro and in vivo studies on 3D-printed TETs.
• Evaluation of diverse assessment techniques for mechanical, physicochemical, and biocompatibility properties.
• Review of methodologies for assessing functional performance and integration.

Main Results:

• A gap exists between technological advancements in 3D-printed TETs and established clinical applications.
• Current evaluation methods vary widely, lacking standardization for robust preclinical assessment.
• Key parameters for assessing TETs include mechanical strength, biocompatibility, degradation, and host integration.

Conclusions:

• Standardized preclinical evaluation frameworks are crucial for the clinical translation of 3D-printed TETs.
• A comprehensive approach combining in vitro and in vivo testing is necessary.
• Further research should focus on developing and validating robust assessment methodologies for TETs.