Macroscale pseudo-spheroids fabricated using methacrylated collagen-coated cells.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Cell spheroids are promising for 3D tissue models but face challenges in large-scale structure formation due to cell reorganization.
• Existing methods struggle to maintain architectural integrity for clinical applications in tissue engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel method for creating stable, large-scale 3D cell aggregates for tissue engineering.
• To evaluate the regenerative potential of these engineered constructs in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) were coated with methacrylated collagen (Col-Ma) to form pseudo-spheroids.
• Col-Ma coated cells were bioprinted into an alginate bath and photocrosslinked.
• Constructs were assessed via immunofluorescence, gene expression, and implantation into a mouse volumetric muscle loss model.

Main Results:

• Col-Ma coating facilitated rapid cell aggregation and maintained structural integrity, unlike conventional spheroids.
• Col-Ma coated aggregates exhibited lower hypoxia and superior muscle tissue regeneration compared to standard bioprinted constructs in vivo.
• The method demonstrated potential for scale-up and complex 3D shape formation.

Conclusions:

• The Col-Ma coating method offers a promising approach for advanced tissue engineering applications.
• Enhanced cellular activity and significant muscle regeneration highlight the clinical potential of these constructs.
• This technique supports organ-chip models and various regenerative medicine strategies.