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Applying a Three-dimensional Uniaxial Mechanical Stimulation Bioreactor System to Induce Tenogenic Differentiation of Tendon-Derived Stem Cells
Published on: August 1, 2020
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A bioreactor system for in vitro tendon differentiation and tendon tissue engineering
Daniel W Youngstrom1, Ibtesam Rajpar, David L Kaplan
1Program in Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Leesburg, Virginia.
Summary
Cyclic mechanical stimulation using a bioreactor protocol can enhance stem cell integration and tendon graft maturation. This method shows promise for developing functional tendon replacements and studying stem cell differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Veterinary Orthopedics
Background:
- Clinical demand for functional tendon grafts is high in human and veterinary medicine.
- Traditional tendon transplantation has limitations.
- Tissue engineering offers a promising alternative using cells, scaffolds, and stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the influence of cyclic mechanical stimulation on equine tendon graft maturation.
- To evaluate the effect of mechanical stimulation on cellular phenotype in engineered tendon constructs.
Main Methods:
- Decellularized equine tendon scaffolds were seeded with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells.
- Scaffolds were subjected to 0%, 3%, or 5% cyclic strain at 0.33 Hz for 11 days.
- Cell integration, extracellular matrix composition, gene expression, and mechanical properties were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Cells cultured at 3% strain showed deep integration within scaffolds.
- Mechanical stimulation altered extracellular matrix composition and promoted tendon-like gene expression.
- Engineered constructs exhibited increased elastic modulus and ultimate tensile strength, reaching native levels.
Conclusions:
- A bioreactor protocol with 3% cyclic strain is effective for cultivating replacement tendon material.
- This protocol serves as a valuable in vitro model for studying stem cell differentiation into tendon cells.
