How can microengineering revolutionize our understanding of tissue function? This review explores the use of microfabrication technologies to engineer cell-substrate, cell-cell, and cell-medium interactions at the micrometer scale. Traditional in vitro studies often involve random cell seeding on homogeneous substrates, which do not accurately mimic the complex architecture of tissues in vivo. Microengineering allows for precise control over the cellular environment, enabling researchers to study cellular interactions in a more controlled and relevant manner. Understanding tissue formation is key to developing effective biomedical engineering strategies and tissue engineering for complex architecture. The review highlights past research on engineering cell-substrate interactions, demonstrating the ability to design surfaces that reproduce aspects of tissue architecture. Additionally, it covers engineering cell-cell interactions, allowing researchers to study cell communication and organization. Also covered in the review are engineering cell-medium interactions. Microengineering provides powerful tools for studying fundamental biological processes and has broad implications for tissue engineering, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. This approach facilitates the design of surfaces that reproduce aspects of that architecture, potentially leading to a better understanding of tissue function and the development of new therapeutic strategies.
As a publication in the Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering, this review perfectly aligns with the journal's focus on surveying the latest advances in biomedical engineering. The article synthesizes a broad range of research in microengineering cellular interactions, providing a valuable overview of the field for biomedical engineers and researchers in related areas. The review is aligned with advanced understanding in tissue engineering and design.