Nano-in-Micro Self-Reporting Hydrogel Constructs.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Cell Biology
• Hepatology

Background:

• Developing functional biomimetic environments for hepatocytes is crucial for liver tissue engineering and drug testing.
• Existing methods often lack precise control over the microenvironment or real-time monitoring capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate highly reproducible Nano-in-Micro constructs for hepatocytes.
• To create a self-reporting, biomimetic environment that facilitates nutrient exchange and allows continuous monitoring of cellular microenvironment.
• To assess the impact of these constructs on hepatocyte function and vitality.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Nano-in-Micro constructs using an automated droplet generator (Sphyga).
• Co-encapsulation of hepatocytes, alginate, collagen, decellularized hepatic tissue, and pH-sensitive optical nanosensors.
• Monitoring of intra-construct pH and assaying media for hepatic function markers (albumin secretion, urea production).

Main Results:

• Nano-in-Micro constructs provided a stable, pH-buffered microenvironment for encapsulated hepatocytes.
• Albumin secretion and urea production were significantly higher in constructs compared to controls.
• The constructs demonstrated efficient nutrient exchange and supported enhanced hepatic function.

Conclusions:

• The developed Nano-in-Micro constructs offer a well-defined, self-reporting, and biomimetic environment conducive to enhanced hepatocyte function.
• This technology holds promise for improving liver tissue engineering and in vitro liver models.
• Real-time pH monitoring within the constructs provides valuable insights into the cellular microenvironment.