Medical technology3 min read
Tissue engineering
Tissue engineering combines scaffolds, cells and biologically active molecules into functioning tissue. FDA-approved examples include artificial skin and cartilage, but the field still plays a relatively small role in patient care, and whole organs remain far off.
According to NIBIB, engineered tissues have been implanted in patients, such as supportive bladders, small arteries, skin grafts and cartilage, and even a whole windpipe. But larger tissues do not stay alive because they lack networks of blood vessels to feed them.
Tissue engineering developed out of the field of biomaterials. Heart, lung and liver tissues made in the laboratory are still far from fully reproducible and ready to be implanted in a patient. See Bioprinted organs and 3D printing.
- In widespread clinical use
- Approved for specific uses
- In clinical trials
- Preclinical
- Concept
Certain engineered tissues are approved (such as artificial skin and cartilage) with limited use; complex organs are at the research stage.
- Engineered skin and cartilageApproved for specific uses
Examples of engineered tissues approved by the FDA, with limited use in patients.1
- Heart, lung and liver tissuesPreclinical
Far from being reproducible and ready to be implanted in a patient.1
Status last checked: · What the maturity levels mean
What is it?
Tissue engineering is the practice of combining scaffolds, cells and biologically active molecules into tissues that perform a function.
How does it work?
Cells are seeded onto a scaffold that provides shape and support, with molecules that stimulate their growth and organisation; newer production methods include bioprinting with thin successive layers of a biological gel.
Where is it used today?
Artificial skin and cartilage are examples of engineered tissues approved by the FDA, and supportive bladders, small arteries, skin grafts and a whole windpipe have been implanted in patients.
Limits and risks
Tissue engineering currently plays a relatively small role in patient treatment.
Larger tissues do not stay alive for lack of networks of blood vessels.
Common questions
Can an organ made in the laboratory be transplanted today?
Not in routine use; complex organs such as the heart and liver are still at the research stage, and what is approved are simpler tissues such as skin and cartilage.1
Questions for your doctor
- Is there an approved engineered tissue suitable for my condition, or is the option within a clinical trial?
References
- 1NIBIB (NIH). Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/tissue-engineering-and-regenerative-medicineHealth agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-08
- 2NIBIB (NIH). Path paved for printing replacement organs. www.nibib.nih.gov/news-events/newsroom/path-paved-printing-replacement-organsHealth agencies & guidelines · Accessed 2026-10-08
Review status: Edited content · Last updated:
Change log
- — Page created.
Educational content only — no diagnosis, and no substitute for a clinician.