Induction of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis in cell-embedded biomaterials

The central role of prevascularization of engineered tissue grafts in postimplantational survival and integration is becoming increasingly appreciated. An in-depth understanding of the regulating factors and intricacies of generation of three-dimensional vascular networks in vitro will facilitate effective fabrication of clinically relevant vascularized tissues. In this review we aim to examine the influence of different biomaterials on vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, with particular focus on the impact of various matrix properties, such as composition, stiffness and geometry, on the resulting vasculature. Additionally, the contribution of externally applied mechanical forces, mimicking blood flow patterns, to tissue vascularization efforts is reviewed. We present here pivotal studies focusing on the influence of mechanical forces, such as shear stress and stretching tension, on vascular network formation in biomaterial- based scaffolds. Comprehensive understanding of the key factors dictating the patterns and functionality of engineered vasculature will facilitate more efficient fabrication of viable tissue grafts, with a broad range of medical applications.