1. Introduction

When approached to put together this compilation on recent advances on the material component of tissue engineering, we first asked ourselves whether there was a need for another book in this field. Tissue engineering books abound; however, a review of the existing literature soon made clear that no other work exists that focuses specifically on the material aspects of tissue engineering science and the approach that we and others use within our own research. Namely, we operate under the principle that rational material design, directed and informed by native tissue structure and function, will enhance the generation of engineered constructs with functional utility. Moreover, as advances are being made in this arena at an exceedingly rapid pace, it is important to routinely update the field. To address this important need, we asked several emerging experts, who we thought may contribute a fresh perspective on this topic, to contribute reviews on past and current work on a range of materials and the formation of engineered tissues from these materials. Further, we asked that each contributor provide their own opinion on the new directions that the field is taking, so as to identify the emerging consensus areas of focus for the future.