Which aspect of the scaffold design process is concerned with deciding between using a scaffold with pores on the scale of 50 to 1000 microns?

The aspect of the scaffold design process that relates to choosing the pore size, specifically between 50 to 1000 microns, is fundamentally linked to the 3-D architecture of the scaffold. Pore size in this range is crucial because it directly influences the scaffold's ability to support cell infiltration, nutrient diffusion, and waste removal.

In tissue engineering, an appropriate pore size is necessary for promoting cell viability and tissue regeneration. Pores that are too small may restrict cell migration and nutrient transport, while those that are excessively large might lead to inadequate mechanical support and cell attachment.

Three-dimensional architecture encompasses not only the size of the pores but also their distribution, geometry, and connectivity, which are critical for determining the scaffold's performance in a biological environment. Properly designed pore architecture allows for optimal tissue ingrowth and integration, facilitating the desired cellular processes necessary for effective tissue regeneration.

While scaffold material, mechanical properties, and surface chemistry are important considerations in scaffold design, they do not specifically address the functional implications of pore size and structure like 3-D architecture does.