Development of volume-stable adipose tissue constructs using polycaprolactone-based polyurethane scaffolds and fibrin...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Adipose tissue engineering is crucial for restoring soft tissue defects and contour deformities.
• Achieving volume stability in functional adipose tissue implants is a significant challenge.
• Biodegradable scaffolds can enhance the structural integrity of engineered tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the suitability of two fibrin formulations, with or without polyurethane (PU) scaffolds, for generating volume-stable adipose tissue constructs.
• To assess the impact of PU scaffolds on cell viability and adipogenesis within the constructs.
• To investigate the in vitro and in vivo performance of engineered adipose tissue.

Main Methods:

• Human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) were encapsulated in a commercial fibrin sealant and a stable fibrin hydrogel.
• Composite constructs were created using fibrin formulations and poly(ε-caprolactone)-based PU scaffolds.
• In vitro studies assessed volume stability, cell adipogenesis (gene and protein expression), and vascularization.
• A pilot in vivo study evaluated the performance of stable fibrin/PU constructs.

Main Results:

• Fibrin/PU composite constructs showed improved volume stability compared to fibrin gels alone.
• Stable fibrin hydrogel/PU constructs maintained size and weight for 21 days.
• PU scaffolds did not impair ASC adipogenesis; significant differentiation was observed in both fibrin formulations.
• Upregulation of key adipogenic marker genes (PPARγ, C/EBPα, GLUT4, aP2) and protein (leptin) confirmed successful differentiation.
• In vivo studies revealed well-vascularized adipose tissue formation within stable fibrin/PU implants after 5 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Stable fibrin hydrogels combined with biodegradable PU scaffolds provide excellent volume stability for adipose tissue engineering.
• These composite constructs support robust ASC adipogenesis and vascularization, demonstrating potential for clinical applications in soft tissue reconstruction.
• The developed stable fibrin/PU system offers a promising solution for creating functional and dimensionally stable adipose tissue grafts.