Design of gene-activated matrix for the repair of skin and cartilage

Abstract

Recently, tissue engineering has advanced markedly in the development of the regeneration of injured or diseased tissues and organs. Gene-activated matrix combines gene therapy and tissue engineering to create a promising solution with great potential for the restoration of the structure and function of damaged or dysfunctional tissues. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the developments, applications and future prospects of gene-activated matrix as a substitute for tissue repair and regeneration. Our current research on skin and cartilage regeneration with gene-activated matrix is presented, and the key issues for future studies are also proposed. © 2014 The Society of Polymer Science, Japan (SPSJ). All rights reserved.