Static culturing is often characterized by non-homogenous cell distribution, confining the majority of the cells to the outer surfaces of the scaffold, which in turn results to an inhomogeneous distribution of the in vitro generated extracellular matrix. Most of the alternative culturing systems developed so far have the ability to achieve good mixing of the culturing media near the construct outer surface, but not to its interior, which represents a major drawback, particularly for the reconstruction of large defects.

The main aim of this research vector is to develop adequate culturing methodologies, alternatively to static culturing, including the use of dynamic culturing and bioreactors.

To develop new culturing systems that should also attempt to achieve uniform distribution of cells into the 3D scaffolds, provide adequate levels of oxygen, nutrients, cytokines and growth factors and expose the cultured cells to mechanical stimuli.

To define advanced culturing procedures to achieve microenvironments that encourage the cell and matrix organization to recapitulate the tissue´s natural structure and function.