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Published on: September 11, 2015
Human bone marrow stem cell-encapsulating calcium phosphate scaffolds for bone repair.
Michael D Weir1, Hockin H K Xu
1Department of Endodontics, Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry, University of Maryland Dental School, Baltimore, 21201, USA.
Acta Biomaterialia
|May 11, 2010
Summary
This study successfully encapsulated human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) within calcium phosphate cement (CPC) scaffolds. The encapsulated cells remained viable, differentiated, and synthesized bone minerals, showing promise for bone tissue engineering.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Orthopedic Research
Background:
- Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is a promising biomaterial for orthopedic applications due to its injectability and osteoconductivity.
- Limited research exists on encapsulating human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) within CPC for bone tissue engineering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To encapsulate hBMSCs within CPC-based scaffolds, including CPC-chitosan and CPC-chitosan-fiber composites.
- To evaluate the viability, osteodifferentiation, and mineral synthesis of encapsulated hBMSCs within these novel scaffolds.
Main Methods:
- hBMSCs were encapsulated in alginate hydrogel beads and incorporated into CPC, CPC-chitosan, and CPC-chitosan-fiber scaffolds.
- Cell viability and density were assessed after 21 days.
- Alkaline phosphatase activity, mineral deposition (staining, SEM, XRD) were analyzed to confirm osteodifferentiation.
Main Results:
- hBMSC viability and density within CPC-based constructs were comparable to controls, indicating no harm from the CPC setting reaction.
- Significant alkaline phosphatase activity (8-fold increase) and apatitic mineral deposition were observed.
- Mechanical reinforcement with chitosan and fibers did not compromise hBMSC osteodifferentiation or mineral synthesis.
Conclusions:
- This study represents the first successful encapsulation of hBMSCs in CPC and CPC-chitosan-fiber scaffolds.
- Encapsulated hBMSCs remained viable, underwent osteodifferentiation, and synthesized bone minerals within the scaffolds.
- These self-setting, hBMSC-encapsulating CPC-based constructs show significant potential for bone tissue engineering applications.
