Novel advances in the design of three-dimensional bio-scaffolds to control cell fate: translation from 2D to 3D

Recreating the most critical aspects of the native extracellular matrix (ECM) is fundamental to understand and control the processes regulating cell fate and cell function. From the ill-defined complexity to the controlled simplicity, we discuss the different strategies that are being carried out by scientists worldwide to achieve the latest advances in the sophistication of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds, stressing their impact on cell biology, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Synthetic and naturally derived polymers like polyethylene glycol, alginate, agarose, etc., together with micro- and nano-fabrication techniques are allowing the creation of 3D models where biophysical and biochemical variables can be modified with high precision, orthogonality and even in real-time.