Research on Cartilage Repair and Biomimetic Applications of dECM Derived from Various Tissues

Cartilage repair is a common problem in the clinic. Owing to the absence of vascular and lymphatic systems, cartilage exhibits a very limited capacity for self-repair, which complicates related research. The decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM), obtained by removing cellular components, preserves the natural structure and bioactive molecules of native ECM. This offers a biocompatible and bioactive environment for cell growth, making it a suitable and effective biomimetic scaffold material. In recent years, many studies have shown that the dECM has good effects on cartilage regeneration. However, there are no studies on the cartilage regeneration of decellularized matrix from different tissue sources, especially the related mechanisms. This article reviews the preparation methods for dECM and research on decellularized matrix derived from cartilage, fat, synovium, and dermis with respect to cartilage repair and regeneration, and further explores the application value and broad prospects of acellular ECM as a new tissue engineering biomimetic scaffold material. With further progress in dECM research and 3D bioprinting, their combination can better replicate native tissue architecture and function. This approach enables precise control of cells and materials, improves the regenerative niche, and may speed the clinical translation of biomimetic ECM for tissue repair.