Shear Forces

61.1 Introduction: cells and Shear Forces Modulation of cell function is a common, crucial aspect of tissue engineering approaches. It has been well understood from the very beginning that the success of tissue engineered constructs depends on the capacity of the cellular component to generate an extracellular matrix (ECM) that closely resembles the native one. This resemblance occurs at different levels; not only is it important to obtain an ECM with a molecular composition similar to that found in vivo, but it must also posses topographical and morphological assets that provide the cells an in vivo-like surface where they can properly function. Both aspects will in turn regulate cell function at the site of implantation and thereby affect tissue formation. It is therefore important to stimulate cells to generate an ECM with the aforementioned characteristics.