Gelatin-based porous scaffolds : design concepts, production, and applications in precision regenerative medicine

Abstract

The full functional regeneration of tissue, as targeted in regenerative medicine, is often impossible without biomaterials. These materials actively contribute to in situ tissue formation by providing mechanical support and, importantly, by guiding the tissue ingrowth in a controlled manner through their structure, physicochemical properties, and molecular cues. A well-known bio-derived polymer, gelatin, offers unique features that support tissue regeneration beyond conventional applications. However, dedicated methodologies are required to tailor its properties, convert it into porous and form-stable hydrogels, and reproducibly produce defined materials in sufficient quantities for preclinical and clinical evaluation. This review summarizes the current and emerging strategies to modify or improve gelatin properties. It also analyzes the opportunities and limitations of scaffold fabrication techniques for gelatin and discusses the outcomes of the biomedical evaluation of macroporous gelatin-based scaffolds for precision regenerative medicine.