Elastin-like materials for tissue regeneration and repair

Abstract Elastin-like recombinamers (ELRs) are novel biomaterials inspired by natural elastin, a fibrous and insoluble protein that constitutes one of the most important structural and functional components of the extracellular matrix. ELR-based hydrogels are biocompatible, have specific mechanical properties and can also interact with the organism to improve the “nativeness” of regenerated tissue. Furthermore, bioactive groups can be incorporated into ELR peptides to obtain stronger and faster cell responses on tissues or coated biomaterial interfaces, thus promoting better regeneration or implant integration. Studies into the use of ELRs in tissue regeneration have increased steadily over the last 10 years, and the range of applications for tissue engineering has also increased. Indeed, recent studies have shown how different types of ELRs can be applied in some of the most challenging fields in tissue regeneration, such as cardiovascular, ocular prostheses, and osteochondral applications. One of the greatest advantages of ELRs is that their biological and mechanical properties can be readily tailored at the genetic level to satisfy end-user applications, thus offering numerous choices for the development of cell-culture matrices for tissue engineering.