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Molecularly Tailored Interface for Long-Term Xenogeneic Cell Transplantation
Sajeesh Kumar Madhurakkat Perikamana1, Nailah Seale2, Jiaul Hoque1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Duke University School of Medicine Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Advanced Functional Materials
|November 3, 2023
Summary
This study presents a novel chitosan encapsulation device that prevents immune rejection and fibrosis, improving long-term survival of transplanted therapeutic cells without immunosuppression.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Immunology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Cell encapsulation devices aim to provide local immunoprotection, reducing the need for systemic immunosuppression.
- Fibrotic encapsulation of devices impairs long-term function of transplanted therapeutic cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel macroencapsulation device design for improved long-term survival and function of transplanted therapeutic cells.
- To mitigate the foreign body response and fibrotic tissue deposition around the implant.
Main Methods:
- A semipermeable chitosan pouch with a tunable reservoir and a molecularly engineered interface was designed.
- The chitosan interface was decorated with 1,12-dodecanedioic acid (DDA) to limit cell adhesion and foreign body response.
- Encapsulated human primary hepatocytes were implanted in the subcutaneous space of immunocompetent mice.
Main Results:
- The DDA-modified chitosan interface successfully limited cell adhesion and foreign body response.
- The device provided long-term protection to encapsulated human primary hepatocytes for up to 6 months.
- Sustained cell viability and presence of human albumin in circulation confirmed device function.
Conclusions:
- The developed macroencapsulation device enhances long-term survival and function of transplanted therapeutic cells.
- Integrating biomaterials and interfacial engineering offers a promising approach for developing retrievable cell transplantation devices without immunosuppression.
