Table 1.

Capabilities likely to be important for the biofabrication of soft matter systems that mimic biological tissue.

Creation of stratified interconnected multilayered systems that enable the emergence of complex biological contexts Matrix-forming materials/methods that: are biologically compatible; allow control of shape; can provide appropriate physical, chemical and biological properties; and can dynamically respond to external or internal cues Mechanical properties: match requirements for compliance and viscoelasticity, enable spatial variation (patterned anisotropies and topographies), and allow dynamic responses (to degrade, respond, heal and reconfigure) Transport properties: permit selective cellular ingress and control of molecular transport, delivery and release Chemical properties: provide surface-bound chemical cues to promote/preclude adhesion, spreading, migration and differentiation