Initiation and early control of tissue regeneration - bone healing as a model system for tissue regeneration.

INTRODUCTION: Tissue regeneration in itself is a fascinating process that promises repeated renewal of tissue and organs. AREAS COVERED: This article aims to illustrate the different strategies available to control tissue regeneration at a very early stage, using bone as an exemplary tissue. The aspects of a controlled inflammatory cascade to achieve a balanced immune response, cell therapeutic approaches for improved tissue formation and angiogenesis, guiding the organization of newly formed extracellular matrix by biomaterials, the relevance of mechanical signals for tissue regeneration processes, and the chances and limitations of growth factor treatments are discussed. EXPERT OPINION: The currently available knowledge is reviewed and perspectives for potential new targets are given. This is done under the assumption that early identification of risk patients as well as the application of early intervention strategies is possible.