What is the correct order of major steps in tissue engineering?

The correct sequence of major steps in tissue engineering begins with the extraction of living cells, which is essential as it provides the foundational biological material necessary for creating tissue constructs. This step includes isolating cells from a tissue source, whether they are stem cells, primary cells, or cells from a biopsy.

Next, after cells are extracted, the process continues with cell culturing. During culturing, the isolated cells are grown and expanded in a controlled environment, allowing researchers to increase the number of viable cells and maintain their functionality. This step ensures that there are enough cells available for subsequent processes.

Following successful cell culturing, the cells are then seeded onto scaffolds. Scaffolds serve as the three-dimensional framework that supports cellular attachment, growth, and differentiation, mimicking the natural extracellular matrix. Proper seeding is crucial, as it lays the groundwork for tissue formation and influences the subsequent cellular behavior.

The final step in the sequence is implantation, where the engineered tissue is placed into the body, and it is expected to integrate with the host environment. Implantation is the culmination of the tissue engineering process, as it applies the developed tissue for therapeutic purposes.

Together, these steps illustrate the process of tissue engineering from cellular extraction to functional application in a clinical setting