Table 1.

A summary of problems and biomimetic approaches outlined in this review.

Problem	Biomimetic Approach
Anoikis	Mimicry of cell-cell interactions on benign encapsulation polymers
	Incorporation of ECM mimetics, anti-apoptotic components, and trophic factors
Vascularization	Use of decellularized organs, such as the pancreas
	Scaffold-, nanofiber-based delivery of ECM components and angiogenic growth factors
	In situ oxygen generation
Inflammation	Surface tethering of native anticoagulant or anti-inflammatory agents
	Local release of anti-inflammatory agents
Adaptive immunity	Cellular encapsulation within benign polymers
	Local delivery of immunosuppressive factors via biomaterials
	Immunomodulatory motifs tethered to encapsulating polymers