Ovarian Cell Encapsulation in an Enzymatically Crosslinked Silk-Based Hydrogel with Tunable Mechanical Properties

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Artificial ovaries offer a promising fertility preservation method for individuals unable to use current cryopreservation techniques.
• Developing a suitable 3D matrix for encapsulating ovarian cells remains a significant challenge in artificial ovary research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a double network hydrogel capable of supporting ovarian stromal cell viability and proliferation.
• To create a foundational biomaterial for future artificial ovary development.

Main Methods:

• A double network hydrogel was synthesized using phenol-conjugated chitosan (Cs-Ph) and silk fibroin (SF).
• Enzymatic crosslinking with horseradish peroxidase was employed to create the hydrogel matrix.
• The mechanical properties (storage modulus) and cell proliferation within the hydrogel were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The developed Cs-SF hydrogel exhibited a high water swelling capacity (15-19).
• Incorporation of SF into chitosan reduced the storage modulus, enhancing flexibility.
• The hydrogel facilitated a homogeneous distribution of ovarian cells, leading to 167% proliferation over 7 days.

Conclusions:

• The novel Cs-SF hydrogel demonstrates excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties suitable for ovarian cell encapsulation.
• This hydrogel represents a significant advancement in the development of artificial ovaries for fertility preservation.
• The material's properties suggest potential for encapsulating human ovarian stromal cells for reproductive applications.