Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers said they found a way to control cell development by growing them on a surface with nanoscale patterning.

The scientists said engineered blood vessels might one day be transplanted into tissues such as the kidneys, liver, heart or any other organs that require large amounts of vascular tissue, which moves nutrients, gases and waste to and from cells.

"We are very excited about this work," said Professor Robert Langer, an author of the study. "It provides a new way to create nano-based systems with what we hope will provide a novel way to someday engineer tissues in the human body."

A paper on the work appeared in the online issue of the journal Advanced Materials.