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Updated: May 13, 2026
Epithelial Cell Repopulation and Preparation of Rodent Extracellular Matrix Scaffolds for Renal Tissue Development
Published on: August 10, 2015
Formulation of selected renal cells for implantation into a kidney
Craig Halberstadt1, Neil Robbins, Darell W McCoy
1VP Technical Operations and Product Development Organovo, Inc. Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Delivery of cells to organs has primarily relied on formulating the cells in a nonviscous liquid carrier. We have developed a methodology to isolate selected renal cells (SRC) that have provided functional stability to damaged kidneys in preclinical models (Kelley et al. Poster presentation at 71st scientific sessions of American diabetes association , 2011; Kelley et al. Oral presentation given at Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine International Society (TERMIS)-North America annual conference, 2010; Presnell et al. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 17:261-273, 2011; Kelley et al. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 299:F1026-F1039, 2010). In order to facilitate SRC injection into the kidney of patients who have chronic kidney disease, we have developed a strategy to immobilize the cells in a hydrogel matrix. This hydrogel (gelatin) supports cells by maintaining them in a three-dimensional state during storage and shipment (both at cold temperatures) while facilitating the delivery of cells by liquefying when engrafting into the kidney. This chapter will define a method for the formulation of the kidney epithelial cells within a hydrogel.
Insights
Researchers developed a novel hydrogel method to deliver selected renal cells (SRC) for kidney repair. This technique immobilizes cells, ensuring stability during transport and facilitating delivery into damaged kidneys.
Area of Science:
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
- Nephrology
Background:
- Cell delivery to organs typically uses nonviscous liquid carriers.
- Selected renal cells (SRC) have shown functional stability in preclinical kidney damage models.
- Chronic kidney disease necessitates improved cell-based therapeutic delivery methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a hydrogel-based method for immobilizing and delivering selected renal cells (SRC).
- To facilitate the injection of SRC into kidneys of patients with chronic kidney disease.
- To define a formulation method for kidney epithelial cells within a hydrogel matrix.
Main Methods:
- Isolation of selected renal cells (SRC).
- Development of a gelatin-based hydrogel matrix for cell immobilization.
- Formulation of kidney epithelial cells within the hydrogel for storage, shipment, and delivery.
Main Results:
- The hydrogel matrix provides a stable three-dimensional environment for SRC during cold storage and shipment.
- The hydrogel liquefies upon engraftment, facilitating cell delivery into the kidney.
- Preclinical models demonstrated functional stability of kidneys treated with SRC.
Conclusions:
- A novel hydrogel formulation enables stable storage and effective delivery of selected renal cells.
- This method offers a promising strategy for cell-based therapies in treating chronic kidney disease.
- The gelatin hydrogel supports cell viability and facilitates kidney engraftment.
