Understanding cell-matrix interactions is crucial for the development of
suitable three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds for tissue regeneration. Cell adhesion,
migration, proliferation, differentiation, and signaling on two-dimensional (2D) planar
substrates have been extensively studied for over three decades, generating considerable
knowledge suggesting that cells can sense multiple features of the extracellular matrix
(ECM), integrate that information, and respond to it. However, the cells in the body
reside in and interact with a nano-structured 3D ECM network, and increasing evidence
has shown that the cellular responses to the 3D environment are significantly different
from those of 2D substrates. This chapter describes the current advances in controlling
cellular responses to 3D scaffolds. The techniques of tailoring scaffolding chemical
composition, architecture, and rigidity are highlighted from the biomaterials aspect, and
their applications to regulating cell-scaffold interactions are illustrated.
Keywords: Biomaterials, cell-material interaction, scaffold, three-dimensional,
tissue engineering.
