Glyco-functionalization of ECM mimics, influence in morphology and cell behaviour

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Glycobiology

Background:

• Tissue engineering often prioritizes mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM).
• Biochemical cues within the ECM, particularly glycans, are crucial for functional tissue development and regulating cell fate.
• Existing ECM mimics lack sufficient biochemical complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel extracellular matrix (ECM) mimics functionalized with specific glycans (α-d-glucopyranose and β-d-galactopyranose).
• To investigate the impact of glycan conjugation on hydrogel morphology and cell behavior.
• To explore the potential of glyco-conjugated ECM mimics in tissue engineering applications.

Main Methods:

• Glycosylated gelatin and hyaluronic acid were functionalized with tyramine.
• Enzymatic crosslinking using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) formed the hydrogel network.
• Reductive amination was used to conjugate α-d-glucopyranose (αGlc) and β-d-galactopyranose (βGal) to the gelatin.

Main Results:

• Glyco-conjugated hydrogels displayed distinct morphologies, including increased fibrous content, reduced pore size, and wrinkled surfaces.
• Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) cultured within the glycan-functionalized hydrogels showed elongated morphologies.
• Cells exhibited altered glycosignatures compared to control groups, indicating a response to the incorporated glycans.

Conclusions:

• Glycan conjugation significantly influences the physical properties of ECM mimics.
• The developed glyco-conjugated hydrogels can modulate cell morphology and glycosignature.
• These findings highlight the potential of tailored biochemical cues in designing advanced tissue engineering scaffolds.