Scaffolds for tissue engineering

Scaffolds used in tissue engineering must meet a complex set of requirements. They must simulate the function of the compromised tissue, provide a favorable environment for the formation of new tissue, and decompose once their role is fulfilled. For tissue regeneration to be successful, scaffolds must therefore have specific physical, mechanical and chemical properties. They must also be biocompatible, and are often seeded with cells or bioactive molecules to promote tissue growth. Successfully meeting these requirements is essential for effective tissue repair.

This cross-journal Collection between Nature Communications, Communications Materials and Scientific Reports brings together the latest developments in scaffolds for hard and soft tissue regeneration. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• All classes of biomaterials for scaffolds
• Controlling scaffold architecture and surface properties
• Optimizing scaffold properties and function
• Mechanistic understanding, including cell-scaffold interactions and cell behavior
• Design and manufacturing approaches
• In-vitro and in-vivo demonstrations of functionality

We welcome the submission of all papers relevant to biomaterial scaffolds for tissue engineering. Nature Communications and Communications Materials will publish research papers, Reviews and Perspectives, and Scientific Reports will publish research papers. All submissions will be subject to the same review process and editorial standards as regular submissions at the participating journals.