Described is a scaffold that is strong enough to resist forces that exist inside a body, while possessing biocompatible surfaces. The scaffold is formed of a layer of mesh (e.g., Stainless Steel or Nitinol) that is tightly enclosed by a multi-layer biological matrix. The biological matrix can include three layers, such a first layer (smooth muscle cells) formed directly on the metal mesh, a second layer (fibroblast/myofibroblast cells) formed on the first layer, and a third layer (endothelial cells) formed on the second layer. The scaffold can be formed to operate as a variety of tissues, such as a heart valve or a vascular graft. For example, the mesh and corresponding biological matrix can be formed as leaflets, such that the scaffold is operable as a tissue heart valve.