스캐폴드 기술 시장 : 세계 산업 규모, 점유율, 동향, 기회, 예측, 유형별, 질병 유형별, 용도별, 최종 사용자별, 지역별, 경쟁사별(2019-2029년)

Global Scaffold Technology Market was valued at USD 1.84 Billion in 2023 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.66% through 2029. Advancements in biotechnology have significantly accelerated the development of scaffold technology. In recent years, Biomimetic scaffolds aim to replicate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) environment by incorporating bioactive molecules, such as growth factors, peptides, and proteins. These scaffolds provide cues for cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, promoting tissue regeneration, have allowed for the creation of more effective and safer scaffold technology, thereby opening new prospects for the growth of global scaffold technology market in the next few years.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Geriatric Population

The increasing geriatric population plays an important role in driving the growth of Global Scaffold Technology Market. With an aging population and increasing rates of obesity and trauma, the prevalence of osteoarthritis is expected to continue to increase worldwide. With increasing age, the chances of having various chronic diseases and conditions increases. There is more prevalence of age related conditions in geriatric population such as osteoarthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and organ failure. Scaffold technology offers potential solutions for tissue repair and regeneration in these conditions, thereby driving the demand for scaffold-based therapies increases the growth of Global Scaffold Technology Market. With increasing age, the individual's tissues and organs naturally undergo degeneration and damage. Scaffold technology provides a means to replace or regenerate damaged tissues, offering improved quality of life for the geriatric population. Scaffold-based therapies, such as tissue-engineered skin grafts and cartilage regeneration, are increasingly being used to address these needs the increasing need drives the growth of Global Scaffold Technology Market.

Increasing Investment in Research & Development

Increasing investment in research and development (R&D) activities are a key driver of the growth of the global scaffold Technology market. Laminated bio piezoelectric scaffolds can reconstruct desired tissue EM through noninvasive ultrasound stimulation. This behavior of time-dependent changes in the functionality of 3D structures when exposed to external stimuli is also defined as four-dimensional (4D) printing." With the increased investment in R&D grants companies and research institutions to allocate resources for the development of new and innovative scaffold technologies. This investment enables the exploration of advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and design techniques. As a result, new scaffold products with improved properties, functionality, and performance can be developed, driving the growth of Global Scaffold Technology Market. With increased investment in R&D allows companies to conduct more extensive and broad research on scaffold technology. This leads to an extreme understanding of the underlying science and enables the development of more advanced and effective scaffold products. Enhanced product development attracts customers and increases the demand of Global Scaffold Technology Market.

Increasing Demand for Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine

The increasing demand for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine plays a significant role in the growth of the Global Scaffold Technology market. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine aim to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged or diseased tissues and organs using biological materials and cellular therapies. Scaffold technology plays a crucial role in these fields by providing a three-dimensional framework to support cell growth, tissue formation, and organ regeneration. Tissue engineering is another form of regenerative therapy that uses scaffolds made of biocompatible materials such as polymers and ceramics in combination with biological components such as growth factors and cells. It helps rebuild tissue that has been damaged or destroyed by disease or injury. Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, orthopedic disorders, and organ failure are increasing globally. Scaffold technology plays a crucial role in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine to develop functional tissues and organs for transplantation or repair which anticipates the growth of Global Scaffold Technology Market.

Growing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

The growing prevalence of chronic diseases is driving a significant increase in the demand for scaffold technology globally. Chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and chronic kidney disease pose significant health challenges worldwide, affecting millions of people and placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. Scaffold technology offers a promising approach for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering applications, providing a framework for the growth, organization, and differentiation of cells into functional tissues and organs. These scaffolds can be engineered to mimic the extracellular matrix of native tissues, facilitating cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation to promote tissue regeneration and repair. Scaffold technology enables the delivery of therapeutic agents, such as growth factors, cytokines, and drugs, to enhance tissue regeneration and modulate the inflammatory response associated with chronic diseases. As the demand for effective treatments for chronic diseases continues to rise, scaffold technology is poised to play a crucial role in advancing regenerative medicine and addressing unmet medical needs globally.

Key Market Challenges

High Manufacturing Expenses

High manufacturing expenses are posing a notable challenge to the demand for scaffold technology globally. Scaffold fabrication involves complex processes and requires specialized equipment and expertise, contributing to high manufacturing costs. The use of advanced biomaterials and manufacturing techniques further escalates expenses associated with scaffold production. The high cost of manufacturing scaffolds can deter research institutions, biotechnology companies, and healthcare facilities from investing in scaffold technology for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. The expense of scaling up production to meet commercial demands adds to the financial burden for scaffold manufacturers. Consequently, the high manufacturing expenses associated with scaffold technology can act as a barrier to its widespread adoption globally, limiting its accessibility and affordability for researchers, clinicians, and patients. Addressing these cost challenges through innovations in manufacturing processes, materials optimization, and supply chain management is crucial to increasing the affordability and scalability of scaffold technology and unlocking its full potential for biomedical applications.

Limited Skilled Workforce

The limited availability of a skilled workforce presents a significant obstacle to the demand for scaffold technology globally. Scaffold fabrication and utilization require specialized knowledge and expertise in biomaterials science, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. However, there is a shortage of professionals with the necessary skills and training to design, manufacture, and implement scaffold-based technologies effectively. This scarcity of skilled workers hampers the widespread adoption of scaffold technology, as research institutions, biotechnology companies, and healthcare facilities struggle to recruit and retain qualified personnel to work with scaffolds. The complex nature of scaffold technology requires continuous innovation and collaboration across multidisciplinary fields, further underscoring the need for a skilled workforce. Addressing the shortage of skilled professionals through education, training programs, and workforce development initiatives is crucial to increasing the demand for scaffold technology globally and advancing its applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and drug discovery. By investing in workforce development, stakeholders can cultivate a talented pool of professionals equipped to drive innovation and growth in the scaffold technology sector.

Key Market Trends

Technological Innovations in Three-Dimensional Cell Culture Techniques

Technological innovations in three-dimensional (3D) cell culture techniques are driving a notable increase in the demand for scaffold technology globally. Traditional two-dimensional (2D) cell culture models have limitations in mimicking the complex microenvironment of native tissues and organs, often resulting in poor predictive capabilities for drug efficacy and toxicity. 3D cell culture techniques, facilitated by scaffold technology, offer a more physiologically relevant platform for studying cellular behavior, tissue development, and disease progression. These scaffolds provide structural support and spatial organization for cells, enabling them to grow and interact in a three-dimensional context that better recapitulates the in vivo environment. Scaffold technology allows for the incorporation of various biomaterials, such as hydrogels, polymers, and ceramics, with tunable properties to mimic specific tissue characteristics and optimize cell-scaffold interactions. As researchers and biopharmaceutical companies increasingly recognize the advantages of 3D cell culture for drug discovery, toxicity screening, and tissue engineering applications, the demand for scaffold technology is expected to continue rising globally, driving innovation and advancements in scaffold design and fabrication techniques.

Expansion of the Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industries

The expansion of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries is significantly increasing the demand for scaffold technology globally. Scaffold technology plays a crucial role in various aspects of drug discovery and development, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. In drug discovery, scaffold-based 3D cell culture systems are increasingly being used for high-throughput screening of drug candidates, enabling more accurate predictions of drug efficacy and toxicity compared to traditional 2D cell culture models. Scaffold technology facilitates the development of tissue-engineered constructs for regenerative medicine applications, such as organ transplantation and tissue repair. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are increasingly investing in scaffold technology to support their research and development efforts, driving innovation and advancements in scaffold design, fabrication, and functionalization techniques. As the demand for innovative therapeutics and personalized medicine continues to grow, scaffold technology is expected to play an increasingly pivotal role in advancing drug discovery and regenerative medicine, fueling the global demand for scaffold technology.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on the Type, hydrogels emerged as a dominated segment,and is anticipated to be fastest growing in the forecast period revolutionizing various fields such as wound healing, 3D bioprinting, and immunomodulation. These versatile materials, with their high-water content and favorable mechanical properties, closely mimic the natural tissue environment, providing an ideal medium for promoting cell growth and facilitating tissue regeneration. With their exceptional versatility, hydrogels have become a dominant and influential segment in the market, paving the way for a plethora of advanced biomedical applications and groundbreaking innovations. From regenerative medicine to drug delivery systems, hydrogels hold immense potential to transform the field and create novel solutions that address complex medical challenges. As researchers continue to explore and harness the unique properties of hydrogels, the future of biomedical technology looks increasingly promising.

End User Insights

Based on the end-user segment, within the ever-evolving Global Scaffold Technology Market, it is the Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Organizations are dominating the market, spearheading the charge towards innovative solutions. These visionary entities recognize the immense potential of scaffold technology and make substantial investments in its development. By harnessing the power of scaffold technology, these organizations aim to accelerate the process of therapeutic advancements and revolutionize drug discovery.

Scaffold technology offers a cutting-edge platform that enables the simulation of human tissue, providing a remarkable opportunity for in-depth testing and analysis. This sophisticated approach allows researchers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how drugs interact with the intricate workings of the human body. As a result, they can unlock invaluable insights that pave the way for safer and more effective treatments. Through their dedication to scaffold technology, Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Organizations are reshaping the landscape of modern medicine. With their relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, they strive to bring about transformative breakthroughs that have the potential to enhance the quality of life for millions of people worldwide.

Regional Insights

North America dominated in the Global Scaffold Technology Market, and this can be attributed to various factors. The region's strong emphasis on research and development has paved the way for groundbreaking advancements in scaffold technology. North America boasts an advanced healthcare infrastructure that supports the implementation of such innovative solutions. The presence of key industry players further reinforces the region's dominance in this market.

One area where the adoption of scaffold technology has gained significant traction in North America is tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The robust utilization of scaffold technology in these fields has led to remarkable progress in the development of novel therapies and treatments. This, in turn, has fostered a climate of growth and innovation within the sector. Overall, the combination of research and development, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and the presence of key industry players has positioned North America at the forefront of the Global Scaffold Technology Market, driving advancements and shaping the future of this dynamic industry.

Key Market Players

Tecan Group Ltd.

REPROCELL Inc.

3D Biotek, LLC

Becton, Dickinson, and Company

Medtronic plc

Xanofi, Inc.

Molecular Matrix, Inc.

Matricel GmbH

PELOBiotech GmbH

Corning Incorporated

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Scaffold Technology Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Scaffold Technology Market, By Type:

Hydrogels Polymeric Scaffolds Micropatterned Surface Microplates Nanofiber Based Scaffolds

Scaffold Technology Market, By Disease Type:

Orthopedics Musculoskeletal & Spine Cancer Skin & Integumentary Dental Cardiology & Vascular Neurology Urology Gynecology Others

Scaffold Technology Market, By Application:

Stem Cell Therapy Regenerative Medicine & Tissue Engineering Drug Discovery Others

Scaffold Technology Market, By End User:

Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Organizations Research Laboratories & Institutes Hospitals & Diagnostics Centers Others

Scaffold Technology Market, By Region:

North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Scaffold Technology Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Scaffold Technology market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Table of Contents

1. Product Overview

• 1.1. Market Definition
• 1.2. Scope of the Market
  • 1.2.1. Markets Covered
  • 1.2.2. Years Considered for Study
  • 1.2.3. Key Market Segmentations

2. Research Methodology

• 2.1. Objective of the Study
• 2.2. Baseline Methodology
• 2.3. Key Industry Partners
• 2.4. Major Association and Secondary Sources
• 2.5. Forecasting Methodology
• 2.6. Data Triangulation & Validations
• 2.7. Assumptions and Limitations

3. Executive Summary

• 3.1. Overview of the Market
• 3.2. Overview of Key Market Segmentations
• 3.3. Overview of Key Market Players
• 3.4. Overview of Key Regions/Countries
• 3.5. Overview of Market Drivers, Challenges, Trends

4. Voice of Customer

5. Global Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 5.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 5.1.1. By Value
• 5.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 5.2.1. By Type (Hydrogels {Wound Healing, 3D Bioprinting, Immunomodulation}, Polymeric Scaffolds, Micropatterned Surface Microplates, Nanofiber Based Scaffolds)
  • 5.2.2. By Disease Type (Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal & Spine, Cancer, Skin & Integumentary, Dental, Cardiology & Vascular, Neurology, Urology, Gynecology, Others)
  • 5.2.3. By Application (Stem Cell Therapy, Regenerative Medicine & Tissue Engineering, Drug Discovery, Others)
  • 5.2.4. By End User (Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Organizations, Research Laboratories & Institutes, Hospitals & Diagnostics Centers, Others)
  • 5.2.5. By Region
  • 5.2.6. By Company (2023)
• 5.3. Market Map

6. North America Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 6.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 6.1.1. By Value
• 6.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 6.2.1. By Type
  • 6.2.2. By Disease Type
  • 6.2.3. By Application
  • 6.2.4. By End User
  • 6.2.5. By Country
• 6.3. North America: Country Analysis
  • 6.3.1. United States Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 6.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 6.3.1.1.1. By Value
    • 6.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 6.3.1.2.1. By Type
      • 6.3.1.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 6.3.1.2.3. By Application
      • 6.3.1.2.4. By End User
  • 6.3.2. Canada Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 6.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 6.3.2.1.1. By Value
    • 6.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 6.3.2.2.1. By Type
      • 6.3.2.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 6.3.2.2.3. By Application
      • 6.3.2.2.4. By End User
  • 6.3.3. Mexico Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 6.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 6.3.3.1.1. By Value
    • 6.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 6.3.3.2.1. By Type
      • 6.3.3.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 6.3.3.2.3. By Application
      • 6.3.3.2.4. By End User

7. Europe Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 7.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 7.1.1. By Value
• 7.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 7.2.1. By Type
  • 7.2.2. By Disease Type
  • 7.2.3. By Application
  • 7.2.4. By End User
  • 7.2.5. By Country
• 7.3. Europe: Country Analysis
  • 7.3.1. France Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 7.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 7.3.1.1.1. By Value
    • 7.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 7.3.1.2.1. By Type
      • 7.3.1.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 7.3.1.2.3. By Application
      • 7.3.1.2.4. By End User
  • 7.3.2. Germany Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 7.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 7.3.2.1.1. By Value
    • 7.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 7.3.2.2.1. By Type
      • 7.3.2.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 7.3.2.2.3. By Application
      • 7.3.2.2.4. By End User
  • 7.3.3. United Kingdom Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 7.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 7.3.3.1.1. By Value
    • 7.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecasty
      • 7.3.3.2.1. By Type
      • 7.3.3.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 7.3.3.2.3. By Application
      • 7.3.3.2.4. By End User
  • 7.3.4. Italy Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 7.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 7.3.4.1.1. By Value
    • 7.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 7.3.4.2.1. By Type
      • 7.3.4.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 7.3.4.2.3. By Application
      • 7.3.4.2.4. By End User
  • 7.3.5. Spain Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 7.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 7.3.5.1.1. By Value
    • 7.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 7.3.5.2.1. By Type
      • 7.3.5.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 7.3.5.2.3. By Application
      • 7.3.5.2.4. By End User

8. Asia-Pacific Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 8.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 8.1.1. By Value
• 8.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 8.2.1. By Type
  • 8.2.2. By Disease Type
  • 8.2.3. By Application
  • 8.2.4. By End User
  • 8.2.5. By Country
• 8.3. Asia-Pacific: Country Analysis
  • 8.3.1. India Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 8.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 8.3.1.1.1. By Value
    • 8.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 8.3.1.2.1. By Type
      • 8.3.1.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 8.3.1.2.3. By Application
      • 8.3.1.2.4. By End User
  • 8.3.2. Japan Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 8.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 8.3.2.1.1. By Value
    • 8.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 8.3.2.2.1. By Type
      • 8.3.2.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 8.3.2.2.3. By Application
      • 8.3.2.2.4. By End User
  • 8.3.3. South Korea Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 8.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 8.3.3.1.1. By Value
    • 8.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 8.3.3.2.1. By Type
      • 8.3.3.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 8.3.3.2.3. By Application
      • 8.3.3.2.4. By End User
  • 8.3.4. Australia Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 8.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 8.3.4.1.1. By Value
    • 8.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 8.3.4.2.1. By Type
      • 8.3.4.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 8.3.4.2.3. By Application
      • 8.3.4.2.4. By End User
  • 8.3.5. India Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 8.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 8.3.5.1.1. By Value
    • 8.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 8.3.5.2.1. By Type
      • 8.3.5.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 8.3.5.2.3. By Application
      • 8.3.5.2.4. By End User

9. South America Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 9.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 9.1.1. By Value
• 9.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 9.2.1. By Type
  • 9.2.2. By Disease Type
  • 9.2.3. By Application
  • 9.2.4. By End User
  • 9.2.5. By Country
• 9.3. South America: Country Analysis
  • 9.3.1. Brazil Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 9.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 9.3.1.1.1. By Value
    • 9.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 9.3.1.2.1. By Type
      • 9.3.1.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 9.3.1.2.3. By Application
      • 9.3.1.2.4. By End User
  • 9.3.2. Colombia Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 9.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 9.3.2.1.1. By Value
    • 9.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 9.3.2.2.1. By Type
      • 9.3.2.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 9.3.2.2.3. By Application
      • 9.3.2.2.4. By End User
  • 9.3.3. Argentina Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 9.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 9.3.3.1.1. By Value
    • 9.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 9.3.3.2.1. By Type
      • 9.3.3.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 9.3.3.2.3. By Application
      • 9.3.3.2.4. By End User

10. Middle East and Africa Scaffold Technology Market Outlook

• 10.1. Market Size & Forecast
  • 10.1.1. By Value
• 10.2. Market Share & Forecast
  • 10.2.1. By Type
  • 10.2.2. By Disease Type
  • 10.2.3. By Application
  • 10.2.4. By End User
  • 10.2.5. By Country
• 10.3. MEA: Country Analysis
  • 10.3.1. South Africa Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 10.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 10.3.1.1.1. By Value
    • 10.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 10.3.1.2.1. By Type
      • 10.3.1.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 10.3.1.2.3. By Application
      • 10.3.1.2.4. By End User
  • 10.3.2. Saudi Arabia Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 10.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 10.3.2.1.1. By Value
    • 10.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 10.3.2.2.1. By Type
      • 10.3.2.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 10.3.2.2.3. By Application
      • 10.3.2.2.4. By End User
  • 10.3.3. UAE Scaffold Technology Market Outlook
    • 10.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast
      • 10.3.3.1.1. By Value
    • 10.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast
      • 10.3.3.2.1. By Type
      • 10.3.3.2.2. By Disease Type
      • 10.3.3.2.3. By Application
      • 10.3.3.2.4. By End User

11. Market Dynamics

• 11.1. Drivers
• 11.2. Challenges

12. Market Trends & Developments

• 12.1. Merger & Acquisition (If Any)
• 12.2. Product Launches (If Any)
• 12.3. Recent Developments

13. Global Scaffold Technology Market: SWOT Analysis

14. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

• 14.1. Competition in the Industry
• 14.2. Potential of New Entrants
• 14.3. Power of Suppliers
• 14.4. Power of Customers
• 14.5. Threat of Substitute Products

15. Competitive Landscape

• 15.1. Tecan Group Ltd.
  • 15.1.1. Business Overview
  • 15.1.2. Company Snapshot
  • 15.1.3. Products & Services
  • 15.1.4. Financials (As Reported)
  • 15.1.5. Recent Developments
  • 15.1.6. Key Personnel Details
  • 15.1.7. SWOT Analysis
• 15.2. REPROCELL Inc.
• 15.3. 3D Biotek, LLC
• 15.4. Becton, Dickinson, and Company
• 15.5. Medtronic plc
• 15.6. Xanofi, Inc.
• 15.7. Molecular Matrix, Inc.
• 15.8. Matricel GmbH
• 15.9. PELOBiotech GmbH
• 15.10. Corning Incorporated

16. Strategic Recommendations

17. About Us & Disclaimer