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Scaffold-supported Transplantation of Islets in the Epididymal Fat Pad of Diabetic Mice
Published on: July 23, 2017
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Bioengineering a pre-vascularized pouch for subsequent islet transplantation using VEGF-loaded polylactide capsules
Naresh Kasoju1, AlŽběta Pátíková, Edyta Wawrzynska
1Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovsky sq.2, Prague 162 06, Czech Republic. kubies@imc.cas.cz.
Biomaterials Science
|November 16, 2019
Summary
Optimized polymer scaffolds create pre-vascularized pouches for cell transplantation. This improves survival for oxygen-demanding tissues like pancreatic islets by ensuring blood supply.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Cell transplantation success hinges on optimal site vascularization.
- Highly oxygen-dependent tissues, such as pancreatic islets, require immediate blood supply for engraftment.
- Bioengineered scaffolds can create pre-vascularized sites to overcome transplantation limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize surface-modified poly(lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLCL) scaffolds for creating pre-vascularized transplantation sites.
- To evaluate the vascularization potential and efficacy of VEGF-loaded scaffolds in vivo.
- To assess the impact of the pre-vascularized pouch on islet graft survival and function.
Main Methods:
- Surface modification of PLCL scaffolds via amination and heparinization.
- Characterization of scaffold surface properties and morphology using ATR-FTIR, XPS, SEM, and AFM.
- In vitro assessment of VEGF release from heparinized scaffolds.
- In vivo implantation studies in Lewis rats to evaluate vascularization and cell survival.
Main Results:
- Surface modifications preserved scaffold morphology and pore structure.
- Optimized conditions achieved sufficient amine groups for heparin immobilization, creating a VEGF reservoir with sustained release.
- In vivo studies identified optimal VEGF dose (50 μg) and implantation time (4 weeks) for robust vascularization.
- The pre-vascularized PLCL capsules supported islet graft survival and function for at least 50 days.
Conclusions:
- Surface-modified PLCL scaffolds effectively create pre-vascularized pouches.
- This approach enhances vascularization and supports the long-term survival of transplanted cells, including pancreatic islets.
- The developed construct offers a reliable strategy for improving cell transplantation outcomes.
