Biocompatible cell culture microscaffolds for precise modeling of cartilage tissue
December 2023
Technische Universität Wien, Wien, Austria
In the present study, researchers evaluate the bioassembly dynamics of conventional cell spheroids (SPHs) in comparison with scaffolded spheroids (S-SPHs) for precise modelling of three-dimensional cartilage tissues. The cell culture scaffolds of S-SPHs are based on a biocompatible and biodegradable PCL resin. A laser-based 3D precision printer with integrated engineering software is used to produce the tiny cage-like hollow spheres, which have a diameter of only 350 μm. After printing, the microspheres are loaded with human mesenchymal stem cells and arranged into three-dimensional support scaffolds. The spheres can be arranged in any geometric shape and thereby have the potential to help advance the development of personalized cartilage replacement tissues. The proliferation and differentiation of the incubated tissue was observed over a period of 28 days and analysed using imaging and genetic engineering techniques. The results show that the supported cartilage models, in contrast to the SPH-based models, were able to maintain high fusiogenicity across all maturation stages. Under the microscope, the researchers were able to observe that the S-SPHs migrated freely between the plastic beads and joined together to form a seamless, homogeneous tissue structure. The microcell culture scaffolds therefore support spheroid modelling into a given shape without depriving them of their cellular dynamics and functionality. In summary, the researchers assess S-SPH technology as a promising method for developing tailored cartilage models for use in regenerative medicine.
Scaffolded spheroids as building blocks for bottom-up cartilage tissue engineering show enhanced bioassembly dynamics
Aleksandr Ovsianikov, Olivier Guillaume
Added on: 02-15-2024
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1742706123007055?via%3Dihub[2] https://www.bionity.com/en/news/1182707/artificial-cartilage-with-the-help-of-3d-printing.html?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bionityde&WT.mc_id=ca0264
