Tissue Engineering of the Nervous System

This chapter covers the challenges and approaches associated with tissue engineering (TE) in the peripheral and central nervous system. The molecular and cellular environment of each tissue demands particular emphasis, as do the natural anatomical structure and relevant animal models for repair. Given the complex interactions between neurons, glia, and the immune system in vivo, it is important to note that to date TE has only encompassed limited areas of neuroscience. The induction of neurite outgrowth and nerve regeneration has attracted the most attention, while materials for neuroprotection strategies have so far been more limited in their application.