Engineered fibrillar extracellular matrix networks for three-dimensional (3D) cellular support systems

Abstract

Synthetic cellular support systems in the form of engineered extracellular matrices are provided. The cellular support system may include a three-dimensional scaffold structure comprising at least one void. At least one suspended fibril spans across the at least one void in the three-dimensional scaffold structure. The suspended fibril comprises at least one extracellular matrix protein, such as fibronectin, and at least one glycan, such as a hyaluronic acid. The suspended fibril is capable of supporting cells and promoting three-dimensional cellular growth. In various aspects, a plurality of suspended fibrils may span the void to form a three-dimensional suspended fibrillar network.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.