The Basics

The fundamental idea of tissue engineering in relation to the vasculature is to replace arteries and veins by restructuring them. The ultimate goal is to create what researchers call "neotissue." Neotissue is comprised of 3 components: cells, a biodegradable scaffold, and signals. Existing cells in the vasculature are required to ensure that the body accepts the new tissue without any complications. The biodegradable scaffold is designed to keep the new vasculature in place temporarily. Eventually, the scaffold biodegrades. By that point, though, the neotissue will be fully functioning an able to support itself. Lastly, signals, or nerves, are required. In order for arteries to pump blood they must receive nerve impulses. It is important that the neotissue receives these signals (through signals) so that the neotissue pumps blood properly. It should be noted that tissue engineering can be used to replace both arteries, which carry blood from the heart, and veins, which carry oxygenated blood.