Advances in alginate gel microencapsulation of therapeutic cells

Rapid developments in the therapeutic applications of genetically engineered cells and stem cell research have increased the possibilities of addressing some pathologies by grafting therapeutic cells. Immunoprotective encapsulation of such therapeutic cells is often essential for their survival and function. Hydrogels provide a bioteolerable matrix for cellular encapsulation and support subsequent graft survival and function. The naturally occurring marine polysaccharide, alginate, is the hydrogel of choice for most applications. However, long-term graft survival is affected by the mechanical instability of alginate and adverse immune reaction to its grafting. So, a variety of modifications have been developed to enhance the physicochemical properties and biotolerance of alginate hydrogels. We highlight the developments in alginate hydrogel microencapsulation of therapeutic cells.