Soy Protein-Based Composite Hydrogels: Physico-Chemical Characterization and In Vitro Cytocompatibility

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Soft tissue engineering requires advanced biomaterials that promote cell integration and function.
• Alginate hydrogels offer biocompatibility but often require modification to enhance cellular responses.
• Incorporating bioactive components can improve the regenerative potential of hydrogel scaffolds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize novel composite hydrogels using alginate (Alg), soy protein isolate (SPI), and bioactive glass (BG) nanoparticles.
• To evaluate the cytocompatibility and cell-supportive properties of these composite hydrogels for soft tissue engineering.
• To investigate the potential of Alg/SPI/BG hydrogels in promoting cell attachment, proliferation, and metabolic activity.

Main Methods:

• Composite hydrogels were synthesized using alginate, soy protein isolate, and bioactive glass nanoparticles.
• Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and dermal fibroblasts were cultured on hydrogel scaffolds for up to 21 days.
• Cell morphology was assessed via fluorescent staining, and metabolic activity was quantified using the water-soluble tetrazolium (WST) assay.

Main Results:

• Alg/SPI and Alg/SPI/BG composite hydrogels demonstrated superior cell attachment, growth, and spreading compared to pure alginate.
• Fibroblast cells exhibited enhanced colonization and proliferation on Alg/SPI/BG hydrogels relative to Alg/SPI hydrogels.
• Both HUVEC and fibroblast cells showed supported metabolic activity on the composite hydrogels throughout the culture period.

Conclusions:

• Composite hydrogels incorporating alginate, soy protein isolate, and bioactive glass nanoparticles provide a promising platform for soft tissue engineering.
• The enhanced cellular response observed on Alg/SPI/BG hydrogels suggests their potential for applications in soft tissue regeneration.
• These novel biomaterials warrant further investigation for their efficacy in promoting functional tissue repair.