Applications of Biomaterials for Immunosuppression in Tissue Repair and Regeneration

Abstract

The immune system is essential for tissue repair and regeneration. Regardless of innate or adaptive immune responses, immunosuppressive strategies such as macrophage polarization and regulatory T (Treg) cells induction can be utilized to modulate the immune system to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. Biomaterials provide an ideal platform which can serve as scaffolds to support damaged tissues and function as carriers to deliver immunosuppressive factors such as cytokines, drugs, microRNA, growth factors and stem cells. Herein, we present an overview of the immunosuppressive modulation by biomaterials in tissue regeneration and highlight the mechanisms of macrophage polarization and Treg cells induction. Overall, we propose that future biomaterials for regenerative strategies will not only involve more interactions between biomaterials and the immune system, but also require more knowledge about mechanisms of immune suppression, which will further enhance the clinical application of biomaterials.