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A core-shell microneedle system for stable fibroblast delivery in cell-based therapies
Federica Medico1, Seungcheol Kim1, Sachin S Surwase2
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
Drug Delivery and Translational Research
|December 19, 2024
Summary
A novel microneedle system delivers therapeutic cells minimally invasively, enhancing cell stability and viability for regenerative medicine. This platform offers a scalable solution for cell-based therapies, improving treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Cell Therapy Delivery
Background:
- Human cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), show therapeutic potential but face delivery challenges like targeting, invasiveness, and viability.
- Effective cell delivery systems are crucial for advancing cell-based therapies for various diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a microneedle (MN) system for minimally invasive delivery of therapeutic cells with enhanced stability and viability.
- To overcome limitations in current cell delivery methods for regenerative medicine applications.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a microneedle system with a gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel core containing fibroblasts and a polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) shell.
- UV-crosslinking of GelMA hydrogel for cell encapsulation and structural integrity.
- In vitro assessment of cell viability and stability over seven days.
Main Results:
- The developed microneedle system demonstrated high structural integrity for skin penetration.
- Over 80% cell viability was achieved after seven days in vitro.
- The conventional GelMA formulation within the MN system provided superior cellular stability and outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The microneedle system offers a promising platform for minimally invasive cell delivery, ensuring sustained cell viability.
- This technology has significant implications for regenerative medicine, wound healing, and localized skin treatments.
- The MN system presents a versatile and scalable solution for advancing therapeutic cell delivery.
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