Methods and apparatuses involving biocompatible structures for tissue
engineering and organ replacement and, more specifically, biocompatible
structures formed by three-dimensional fabrication, are described. In
some embodiments, the biocompatible structures are scaffolds for cells
that can be used as tissue engineering templates and/or as artificial
organs. The structures may be three-dimensional and can mimic the shapes
and dimensions of tissues and/or organs, including the microarchitecture
and porosities of the tissues and organs. Pores in the structure may
allow delivery of molecules across the structure, and may facilitate cell
migration and/or generation of connective tissue between the structure
and its host environment. Structures of the invention can be implanted
into a mammal and/or may be used ex vivo as bioartificial assist devices.