What is an important factor in determining the success of tissue engineering strategies?

Efficient nutrient diffusion is a crucial factor in the success of tissue engineering strategies because it directly affects the health and functionality of engineered tissues. Tissues require a continuous supply of nutrients and oxygen to survive, proliferate, and function optimally. In the context of three-dimensional tissue constructs, the distance from cells to the nearest blood supply can be significant. If nutrients cannot diffuse adequately throughout the tissue, cell populations may face hypoxia and starvation, leading to cell death and poor tissue quality.

Moreover, effective nutrient diffusion supports metabolic activities, promotes cell viability, and encourages tissue maturation and integration with host tissues. Therefore, ensuring that engineered constructs allow for sufficient nutrient and waste transport is essential for creating viable and functional tissues that can ultimately perform as intended in clinical applications.