CHAPTER 8: Smart Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering of Cartilage

Smart materials have made significant changes within the realm of tissue engineering research. Smart biomaterials have the unique ability to respond to their environments, and interact with different biological systems in turn producing specific responses. In this chapter, we focus on the tissue engineering of cartilage with the use of smart materials. Specifically, we will discuss the desired properties of such materials for optimal biological responses and why certain natural and synthetic materials are used. We also examine the use of smart matrices in the context of those that are thermo-responsive, pH-responsive, bioactive agent releasing, and self-assembling matrices. Response to dynamic loading, as well as the use of matrix metalloproteinase and shape-memory systems are explored. Finally, future applications of smart materials within a broad scope are considered.