Abstract

Micro- and nano-structured membranes designed and operated according to well-defined engineering criteria are able to sustain cellular specific functions, to provide adequate mass transfer of molecules throughout the cellular compartment and to supply appropriate biomechanical stimuli of the developing tissue. In this paper the author shows bioinspired approaches such as those related to the use of different tailor-made bioengineered membrane systems using liver cells, stem cells, neuronal cells, and keratinocytes. Membrane bioreactors may simulate the in vivo complex physiological environment ensuring an adequate mass transfer of nutrients and metabolites and the molecular and mechanical regulatory signals. Membrane bioreactors developed to create a liver organotypic system and a neuronal network with defined functional, geometric and neuroanatomical features will be presented.