The present invention provides a novel silk-fiber-based matrix having a wire-rope
geometry for use in producing a ligament or tendon, particularly an anterior cruciate
ligament, ex vivo for implantation into a recipient in need thereof. The invention
further provides the novel silk-fiber-based matrix which is seeded with pluripotent
cells that proliferate and differentiate on the matrix to form a ligament or tendon
ex vivo. Also disclosed is a bioengineered ligament comprising the silk-fiber-based
matrix seeded with pluripotent cells that proliferate and differentiate on the
matrix to form the ligament or tendon. A method for producing a ligament or tendon
ex vivo comprising the novel silk-fiber-based matrix is also disclosed.
