TENDON REGENERATION: Understanding Tissue Physiology and Development to Engineer Functional Substitutes

In recent years, research has focused more attention to tendon tissues, unveiling
aspects of tendon’s intrinsic morphology, architecture, and functionality. The pivotal role
of tendons in joint mechanics and movement implies well-established natural mechanisms
of action under permanent and fine-tuned adjustments to balance the forces and
loadings in order to adapt to changes in the environment. Although walking, running, or
standing may be simple and easily achieved mechanisms in daily activities, the complex
dynamics involved challenges researchers to combine creativity and knowledge aiming
at restoring tissue morphology, architecture, and ultimately tissue functionality.