[Research and application of functional tissue engineered tendons].
OBJECTIVE
To review the research and application of functional tissue engineered tendons (FTETs).


METHODS
Recent literature concerning the research of FTETs was reviewed and analyzed.


RESULTS
Functional tissue engineering (FTE) was a new approach that placed an emphasis on the importance of mechanical stress in determining the success of tissue engineered constructs and the effect of tissue remodeling in vivo. The concept of FTE was introduced into the research of tissue engineered tendons; by measuring in vivo loads of normal tendon and using the information as a guideline, the appropriate tissue engineered tendon which can withstand in vivo loads was designed. It would be possible to solve the problems that the biomechanical function of the tissue engineered tendons could not meet the requirements of the loading environment in vivo.


CONCLUSIONS
FTETs have a more promising future for the treatment of tendon defects.
Ning
Liangju
L
Division of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu Sichuan, 610041, P R China.
Qin
Tingwu
T
D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D010812:Physical Stimulation; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D015607:Stents; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013710:Tendons; D013718:Tensile Strength; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods*