A hierarchical integration pyramid to increase translation of biomaterials based on recent successes in multiscale synthetic biomaterials research

The success of science and engineering in increasing life span and quality of life has generated difficult challenges to sustaining health span. Aging populations and poor health patterns have increased the need for replacement organs, tissues, and limbs that must do more, longer. To meet this need, advanced synthetic biomaterials that mimic or encourage native tissue regrowth are needed. We highlight recent advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine for bone, skin, and cardio scaffolds, grafts, and replacements. Recognizing the complexity of multiscale development and testing, we use these as case studies to propose a hierarchical integration pyramid to assist the rapid translation of these developments from benchtop to bedside.