Current Advances on the Regeneration of Musculoskeletal Interfaces

Abstract

The regeneration of the musculoskeletal system has been widely investigated. There is now detailed knowledge about the organs composing this system. Research has also investigated the zones between individual tissues where physical, mechanical and biochemical properties transition. However, the understanding of the regeneration of musculoskeletal interfaces is still lacking behind. Numerous disorders and injuries can degrade or damage tissue interfaces. Their inability to regenerate can delay the repair and regeneration process of tissues, leading to graft instability, high morbidity and pain. Moreover, the knowledge of the mechanism of tissue interface development is not complete. This review presents an overview of the most recent approaches of the regeneration of musculoskeletal interfaces, describing the latest in vitro, preclinical and clinical studies.

A bioprinted complex tissue model for myotendinous junction with biochemical and biophysical cues

“…Furthermore, most of the research has been focused on biomaterials and processing techniques to regenerate muscle and tendon tissues, although the MTJ function is a critical component in force transmission through the muscle-tendon, much less research has been conducted on the regeneration of the muscle and tendon interface. 15,16 In general, to regenerate MTJ substitutes, a typical scaffold-based strategy has been used. Using scaffold-based regeneration with synthetic or acellularized biomaterials and biomimetic hydrogels with or without cells, several advantageous factors, such as controllable pore geometry and physical properties, can be adapted as engineering substitutes.…”

“…Although significant progress has been made in MTJ regeneration through the use of biomaterials and printing technologies, engineered biomaterials showing the unique physical/biological characteristics of MTJ are still required to obtain a perfect junction structure. Furthermore, most of the research has been focused on biomaterials and processing techniques to regenerate muscle and tendon tissues, although the MTJ function is a critical component in force transmission through the muscle–tendon, much less research has been conducted on the regeneration of the muscle and tendon interface 15,16 …”

Extracellular Matrix Hydrogels Promote Expression of Muscle-Tendon Junction Proteins

“…1 In addition to acute injuries, muscle and tendon disorders can be caused by aging, dystrophies and inflammation. 2 Muscle and tendon tissue are inherently capable of healing after minor injuries, but in the case of massive defects or disease, loss of function can occur. Regenerative medicine is a promising new area to combat loss of function, and greatly improve the quality of life for those affected.…”

“…While there is some understanding of the cellular response to various disorders in muscle and tendon tissue individually, there is less understanding of how disorders in a single tissue may further inhibit reparative processes and decrease function of the muscle-tendon unit. 2…”

“…1 In addition to acute injuries, muscle and tendon disorders can be caused by aging, dystrophies and inflammation. 2 Muscle and tendon tissue are inherently capable of healing after minor injuries, but in the case of massive defects or disease, loss of function can occur.…”