Cell-laden injectable microgels: Current status and future prospects for cartilage regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Injectable hydrogels are widely used for cartilage regeneration due to biocompatibility and ease of delivery.
• Cell-laden microgels improve cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, enhancing nutrient exchange.
• Microgels demonstrate superior gene expression and matrix regeneration compared to bulk hydrogels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in cell-laden microgels for cartilage regeneration.
• To discuss biomaterials, fabrication techniques, cell sources, and differentiation strategies.
• To cover clinical approaches, challenges, and future opportunities in cartilage tissue engineering.

Main Methods:

• Review of in vitro and in vivo studies on cell-laden microgels.
• Analysis of biomaterials, crosslinking strategies, and fabrication techniques.
• Evaluation of cell sources, chondrogenic induction signals, and biological responses.

Main Results:

• Cell-laden microgels enhance cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and nutrient transport.
• Superior gene expression and matrix regeneration observed with microgels versus bulk hydrogels.
• Macroporous structures from assembled microgels and 3D printing applications show promise.

Conclusions:

• Cell-laden microgels represent a significant advancement in cartilage tissue engineering.
• Further research and development are needed for successful clinical translation.
• Microgel-based strategies offer new avenues for functional cartilage tissue creation.