What are the two major scaffold types used for tendon tissue engineering?

In tendon tissue engineering, the two major scaffold types utilized are PLGA (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) and collagen type I. PLGA is a biodegradable polymer that has favorable mechanical properties and tunable degradation rates, making it suitable for supporting the load-bearing requirements of tendons. It provides a structural framework that can promote cell adhesion and proliferation.

Collagen type I is the predominant extracellular matrix protein found in tendons and plays a crucial role in tendon structure and function. It is known for its ability to support cell attachment, migration, and differentiation, which are essential processes in tissue regeneration. The combination of PLGA and collagen type I thus offers an effective scaffold that mimics the natural tendon environment, facilitating the healing and regeneration of tendon tissue.

The use of collagen type II is more relevant to cartilage rather than tendon tissue, which explains why the other combinations involving type II collagen do not fit the context of tendon engineering. The choice of materials must align with the specific structural and biological characteristics of the tissue being engineered, confirming the significance of PLGA and collagen type I in tendon applications.