Chapter 11 - Electrospinning of collagen nanofiber scaffolds for tissue repair and regeneration

Abstract

In the past few decades, the definition of tissue engineering has changed as driven by the scientific progress but, in practice, this technology stands to represent applications that repair or replace structural and functional tissues with any deformities. Biomaterials (nanofiber scaffolds) is an interdisciplinary science aspires to design artefacts with specific characteristics, namely, mimic the natural environment; temporarily fill the gap until tissue is regenerated; and serve as a guide for growing cells/tissue. With this aim, biotechnologists are applying the principles of nanotechnology to design and manufacture scaffolds that can replace the natural extracellular matrix until host cells or tissues regenerate. In most cases, the researchers confine their knowledge in using the instrumental services provided from nanotechnologists, without understanding the basic principles, the ground realities and constraints involved in the process. Here, we try to bridge the gap between biotechnology and nanotechnology by providing the preliminary information about tissue repair and regeneration using biomimetic scaffolds. It is followed by a brief overview of state-of-the-art methods for fabricating nanofibrous scaffolds, including phase separation, freeze drying, self-assembly, and electrospinning. Finally, there is a special emphasis on application of collagen scaffolds in the field of biomedical and tissue engineering.