Biomaterials that function as tissue surrogates ought to form three dimensional structures which are conducive to cell proliferation and regeneration. Since the extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of proteoglycans (long chain polysaccharides) and proteins, the combination of proteins and polysaccharides presents a logical strategy to mimic the ECM and guide cell growth and proliferation. Polysaccharides are distinctive scaffold materials for regeneration due to their biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, biodegradability and functional groups which may be modified to improve mechanical properties and cell signalling. However, modification of polysaccharides is often time consuming, and requires extensive chemical reactions. Therefore, to improve physiological signalling, tissue response and mechanical strength, polysaccharides are combined with proteins. This review will focus on naturally occurring proteins and polysaccharide combinations as well as draw attention to their specific use within the tissue engineering field.
Keywords: Alginate; Biomimicry; Chitosan; Crosslinking; Hyaluronic acid; Hydrogel; Proteosaccharide.
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