Scaffold
Scaffold (medicine)
Scaffold (pronunciation: /ˈskafəld/) is a term used in various fields of medicine and biology, particularly in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Etymology
The term 'scaffold' originates from the Old French escafaut, meaning a temporary platform or structure. In a medical context, it refers to a structure that supports the growth and development of new cells or tissues.
Definition
In medicine, a scaffold is a three-dimensional structure used to support the growth and differentiation of cells or tissues. It provides a suitable environment for the cells to adhere, proliferate, and differentiate, thereby facilitating tissue regeneration or repair.
Types of Scaffolds
There are various types of scaffolds used in medicine, including:
- Natural scaffolds: These are derived from natural materials, such as collagen, fibrin, and hyaluronic acid.
- Synthetic scaffolds: These are made from synthetic materials, such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), and polycaprolactone (PCL).
- Composite scaffolds: These are made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials.
Applications
Scaffolds are used in a variety of medical applications, including:
- Tissue engineering: Scaffolds are used to support the growth and development of new tissues in the lab, which can then be transplanted into patients.
- Regenerative medicine: Scaffolds are used to facilitate the regeneration of damaged or diseased tissues in the body.
- Drug delivery: Scaffolds can be used to deliver drugs directly to a specific area of the body.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Scaffold
- Wikipedia's article - Scaffold
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