Preclinical research studies for treating severe muscular injuries: focus on tissue-engineered strategies

Trends Biotechnol. 2023 May;41(5):632-652. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.09.010. Epub 2022 Oct 18.

Abstract

Severe skeletal muscle injuries are a lifelong trauma with limited medical solutions. Significant progress has been made in developing in vitro surrogates for treating such trauma. However, more attention is needed when translating these approaches to the clinic. In this review, we survey the potential of tissue-engineered surrogates in promoting muscle healing, by critically analyzing data from recent preclinical models. The therapeutic advantages provided by a combination of different biomaterials, cell types, and biochemical mediators are discussed. Current therapies on muscle healing are also summarized, emphasizing their main advantages and drawbacks. We also discuss previous and ongoing clinical trials as well as highlighting future directions for the field.

Keywords: in vivo; preclinical; skeletal muscle injuries; tissue engineering; volumetric muscle loss.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / metabolism
  • Muscle, Skeletal*
  • Regeneration
  • Tissue Engineering*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials