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Development of a Biomimetic Extracellular Matrix with Functions of Protein Sequestration and Cell Attachment Using
Lidya Abune1, Kyungsene Lee1, Yong Wang1
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 122 CBE Building, University Park, Pennsylvania 16801, United States.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|February 18, 2022
Summary
Dual aptamer-functionalized hydrogels mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM), enhancing cell attachment and protein sequestration for biomaterial development.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides crucial structural and functional support, featuring cell-binding and protein-binding sites.
- Aptamers offer high specificity and affinity for targeted molecular binding, presenting an opportunity for biomaterial functionalization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop dual aptamer-functionalized hydrogels that mimic the ECM's dual functions of cell attachment and protein sequestration.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of incorporating both cell-binding and protein-binding aptamers within a hydrogel matrix.
Main Methods:
- Hydrogels were synthesized via free-radical polymerization employing a freezing technique, resulting in macroporous structures (40-50 μm).
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) aptamers and c-MET aptamers were incorporated to target VEGF sequestration and endothelial cell attachment, respectively.
- The functionalized hydrogels were characterized for their ability to load cells and proteins, and to control the release kinetics of sequestered molecules.
Main Results:
- The VEGF aptamer significantly enhanced VEGF sequestration and reduced its apparent diffusivity, prolonging its retention and release.
- The c-MET aptamer promoted endothelial cell attachment within the hydrogel network.
- Co-incorporation of both aptamers demonstrated synergistic effects, improving cell survival and growth.
Conclusions:
- Dual aptamer-functionalized hydrogels successfully recapitulate key ECM functions, enabling simultaneous cell attachment and protein sequestration.
- This approach holds significant potential for developing advanced biomimetic materials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
