Cardiovascular regenerative biology.

et al. (pp. 48–59), Naito et al. (pp. 60–72), Majesky et al. (pp. 73–81), and Peter et al. (pp. 82–93) provide an excellent overview of the importance of the microenvironmental niche for cell fate. These manuscripts also contribute to our understanding of the importance of the innate immune response to cell fate after implantation. The clinical applications related to the formation of blood vessels and vascular networks, and insights gained from models thereof, by Chappell et al. (pp. 94–107), Peng et al. (pp. 108–121), Sacharidou et al. (pp. 122–143 ), and Peck et al. (pp. 144–158) provide an excellent overview of advances in blood vessel engineering and the concepts that drive their optimal design. These manuscripts provide a clear sense of optimism that a functional vascular graft will be developed to replace or complement autologous tissues in patients with acquired or congenital vascular disease. Finally, contributions by Wainwright et al. (pp. 159–170) and Freytes et al. (pp. 171–182) provide a look at next generation myocardial replacement materials and methods for creating functional myocardium. In all, this issue provides a resource of current findings in cardiovascular regenerative medicine. Although significant challenges remain, optimism is high and the future will be very exciting.