Imaging approaches in functional assessment of implantable myogenic biomaterials and engineered muscle tissue

The fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine utilize implantable biomaterials and engineered tissues to regenerate damaged cells or replace lost tissues. There are distinct challenges in all facets of this research, but functional assessments and monitoring of such complex environments as muscle tissues present the current strategic priority. Many extant methods for addressing these questions result in the destruction or alteration of tissues or cell populations under investigation. Modern advances in non-invasive imaging modalities present opportunities to rethink some of the anachronistic methods, however, their standard employment may not be optimal when considering advancements in myology. New image analysis protocols and/or combinations of established modalities need to be addressed. This review focuses on efficacies and limitations of available imaging modalities to the functional assessment of implantable myogenic biomaterials and engineered muscle tissues.