Natural, synthetic and commercially-available biopolymers used to regenerate tendons and ligaments

Abstract

Tendon and ligament (TL) injuries affect millions of people annually. Biopolymers play a significant role in TL tissue repair, whether the treatment relies on tissue engineering strategies or using artificial tendon grafts. The biopolymer governs the mechanical properties, biocompatibility, degradation, and fabrication method of the TL scaffold. Many natural, synthetic and hybrid biopolymers have been studied in TL regeneration, often combined with therapeutic agents and minerals to engineer novel scaffold systems. However, most of the advanced biopolymers have not advanced to clinical use yet. Here, we aim to review recent biopolymers and discuss their features for TL tissue engineering. After introducing the properties of the native tissue, we discuss different types of natural, synthetic and hybrid biopolymers used in TL tissue engineering. Then, we review biopolymers used in commercial absorbable and non-absorbable TL grafts. Finally, we explain the challenges and future directions for the development of novel biopolymers in TL regenerative treatment.

Keywords

• Synthetic biopolymers
• Natural biopolymers
• Hybrid composites
• Tendon scaffolds
• Commercial grafts