Cell-Derived Matrix, Stem Cell Rejuvenation, and Tissue Regeneration

Extracellular matrix (ECM), the major component of tissue, plays a critical role in tissue engineering and regeneration. It is well-known that tissue-derived ECM, via serving as a biological scaffold, is actively involved in tissue engineering by guiding stem cells’ specific lineage differentiation. In the last decade, cell-derived ECM (CDM) has become more attractive in promoting stem cells’ rejuvenation in terms of proliferation and differentiation preference through acting as an ex vivo culture substrate. Given the importance of providing a large amount of high-quality stem cells for tissue engineering, this chapter summarizes recent progress in the influence of CDM-donated cells on stem cells’ rejuvenation, the influence of CDM culture microenvironment on stem cells’ differentiation, and the contribution of CDM on stem cells’ rejuvenation and tissue regeneration. The goal of this chapter is to help readers better understand the interaction between stem cells and matrix microenvironment, which facilitates promotion of stem cells’ quantity and quality in developing high-quality tissue-engineered tissues.