Overview

When most types of human tissue are damaged, they repair themselves by forming a scar - a mechanically strong 'patch' that restores structural integrity to the tissue without restoring physiological function. Much better, for a patient, would be like-for-like replacement of damaged tissue with something functionally equivalent: there is currently an intense international research effort focused on this goal. This timely book addresses key topics in tissue regeneration in a sequence of linked chapters, each written by world experts; understanding normal healing; sources of, and methods of using, stem cells; construction and use of scaffolds; and modelling and assessment of regeneration. The book is intended for an audience consisting of advanced students, and research and medical professionals.