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Cellular Encapsulation in 3D Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering
Published on: October 26, 2009
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Natural polymers for the microencapsulation of cells
Luca Gasperini1, João F Mano2, Rui L Reis1
13B's, Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Minho, 4806-909 Caldas das Taipas, Portugal ICVS/3B's, PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
|September 19, 2014
Summary
This review explores naturally derived polymers for cell encapsulation in hydrogels. These materials are vital for applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and xenotransplantation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Cell encapsulation in hydrogels is crucial for biomedical applications.
- Naturally derived polymers offer biocompatibility and mild processing conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review naturally derived polymers for cell encapsulation.
- To highlight their use in biomedical and biotechnological applications.
- To discuss encapsulation technologies, focusing on microencapsulation.
Main Methods:
- Focus on polysaccharides (e.g., alginate, chitosan) and proteins (e.g., collagen, gelatin).
- Review hydrogel formation under mild conditions for cell viability.
- Discuss microencapsulation techniques.
Main Results:
- Identified key natural polymers suitable for cell encapsulation.
- Demonstrated the potential of these hydrogels in various applications.
- Highlighted the importance of controlled encapsulation volumes.
Conclusions:
- Naturally derived polymers are effective for cell encapsulation in hydrogels.
- These hydrogels support applications like xenotransplantation and tissue engineering.
- Microencapsulation is a key technology for controlled cell entrapment.
