Which property is essential for scaffolds to promote cell infiltration?

Pore size is crucial for scaffolds in tissue engineering because it directly influences cell infiltration, which is vital for effective tissue regeneration. The pores within the scaffold must be adequately sized to allow cells to migrate into the scaffold structure. If the pores are too small, they may hinder cellular movement, reducing the ability of cells to permeate the scaffold and form the necessary three-dimensional tissue architecture. Conversely, if the pores are too large, they may not provide sufficient surface area for cell attachment or support the mechanical integrity required for tissue formation.

The importance of pore size extends to nutrient and oxygen diffusion, which are critical for cell survival and function. Adequate pore size not only supports cell infiltration but also enhances the scaffold's overall biocompatibility and effectiveness in promoting tissue regeneration. Therefore, understanding and optimizing pore size is a key consideration in scaffold design for tissue engineering applications.