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Published on: March 7, 2019
Injectable laminin-functionalized hydrogel for nucleus pulposus regeneration
Aubrey T Francisco1, Robert J Mancino, Robby D Bowles
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
Biomaterials
|July 16, 2013
Summary
Injectable hydrogels offer a promising method for delivering cells to regenerate damaged intervertebral discs (IVDs). This study developed a laminin-functionalized hydrogel that significantly improved cell retention within the IVD.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Cell delivery to the intervertebral disc (IVD) is crucial for regeneration but faces challenges in retaining cells and maintaining their phenotype.
- Interactions between nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and laminin promote cell attachment and biosynthesis, suggesting laminin incorporation into delivery systems could be beneficial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an injectable, laminin-111 functionalized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-LM111) hydrogel for effective cell delivery to the IVD.
- To evaluate the mechanical properties and cell retention capabilities of the novel PEG-LM111 hydrogel carrier.
Main Methods:
- Development of an injectable PEG-LM111 hydrogel.
- Assessment of hydrogel gelation time and mechanical properties (dynamic shear moduli).
- Evaluation of primary NP cell retention in cultured IVD explants over 14 days using the PEG-LM111 carrier versus liquid suspension.
Main Results:
- The PEG-LM111 hydrogel exhibited rapid gelation (approx. 20 min) without an initiator.
- Mechanical properties showed dynamic shear moduli in the range of 0.9-1.4 kPa.
- Significantly higher primary NP cell retention was observed with the PEG-LM111 carrier compared to liquid suspension over 14 days.
Conclusions:
- The developed injectable PEG-LM111 hydrogel is a promising biomaterial for cell delivery to the IVD.
- Laminin functionalization enhances cell retention within the IVD environment.
- This hydrogel offers a user-friendly approach for cell-based therapies aimed at IVD regeneration.
