The native extracellular matrix (ECM) within different origins of tissues provides a dynamic microenvironment for regulating various cellular functions. Thus, recent regenerative medicine and tissue engineering approaches for modulating various stem cell functions and their contributions to tissue repair include the utilization of tissue-specific decellularized matrix-based biomaterials. Because of their unique capabilities to mimic native extracellular microenvironments based on their three-dimensional structures, biochemical compositions, and biological cues, decellularized matrix-based biomaterials have been recognized as an ideal platform for engineering an artificial stem cell niche. Herein, we describe the most commonly used decellularization methods and their potential applications in musculoskeletal tissue engineering.
Keywords: Biomaterials; Decellularization; Extracellular matrix (ECM); Microenvironment; Musculoskeletal tissue regeneration; Scaffold.