Inflammation-modulating elastic decellularized extracellular matrix scaffold promotes meniscus regeneration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Meniscus injuries require effective repair strategies.
• Scaffold properties are crucial for tissue remodeling and regeneration.
• Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds offer a promising biomaterial base.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an inflammation-modulating, elastic decellularized meniscus ECM (dmECM) scaffold functionalized with chitosan (CS) and ibuprofen (IBU) for meniscus repair.
• To assess the scaffold's biological performance in vitro and in vivo.
• To investigate its effects on chondrocytes, macrophages, and meniscus regeneration.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of an elastic dmECM scaffold.
• Functionalization of the scaffold with CS and IBU (dmECM/CS-IBU).
• Evaluation of scaffold properties (structure, mechanics, elasticity).
• In vitro assessment of chondrocyte proliferation and phenotype.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation of anti-inflammatory properties and macrophage polarization.
• Testing in a partial rabbit meniscus defect model.

Main Results:

• The dmECM/CS-IBU scaffold maintained desirable structural and mechanical properties.
• The scaffold promoted chondrocyte proliferation and preserved chondrogenic characteristics.
• It exhibited significant anti-inflammatory properties and promoted pro-healing macrophage polarization.
• In vivo, the scaffold facilitated in situ meniscus repair and protected adjacent cartilage.

Conclusions:

• The developed dmECM/CS-IBU scaffold possesses tissue-specific bioactivity and inflammation-modulating capabilities.
• This scaffold represents a feasible strategy for synergistic promotion of meniscus repair and regeneration.
• The approach holds potential for treating meniscus injuries by enhancing tissue healing and preserving joint integrity.