Tissue engineering application on coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic: A review

Abstract

Background: The use of biomaterials in diagnosing and treating COVID-19 has been investigated in various forms and origins, including natural and synthetic materials. The development of rapid and highly sensitive biosensors based on field-effect transistors and the creation of antiviral platforms, vaccines, and nanomaterials have been the focus of most research on the application of biomaterials. Tissue engineering encompasses the study of tissue development, behavior, and growth factors that are more readily supported in the medical setting. This paper reviews the roles of biomaterials, tissue engineering, drug delivery, microfluidics, and 3D printing technologies in urgently responding to pandemics like COVID-19. In addition, this research covers a broad area of vaccines and treatments, reviewing the most promising candidate drugs and vaccines that have entered clinical trials to date. These engineering methods focus on biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and replacing damaged tissues and organs. Some biodegradable biomaterials, such as chitosan, mesoporous silica rods, and PLGA nanoparticles, have been utilized as vaccine platforms and can be employed in developing a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Notably, the proposed platform's size, shape, and other physicochemical characteristics should be carefully planned to achieve the desired effects on the immune system. Conclusion: Tissue engineers possess unique tools that can significantly advance our understanding of viral illnesses and aid in creating diagnostic and therapeutic platforms. Future research on COVID-19 infection and drug testing will benefit significantly from developing organ-on-a-chip technologies. Developing innovative biomaterial-based techniques for preventing, treating, and monitoring COVID-19 requires collaboration across multiple disciplines.