Injectable carrageenan-based hydrogel with piezoelectric particles for potential regenerative applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Injectable hydrogels are crucial for minimally invasive regenerative medicine.
• Delivering biomimetic microenvironments to irregular tissue defects remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multi-responsive, ECM-like injectable hydrogel.
• To combine ion-triggered gelation with ultrasound-activated piezoelectric functionality for regenerative therapies.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a hydrogel using κ/λ-carrageenan, hyaluronic acid, and type I collagen.
• Incorporation of barium titanate particles for piezoelectric properties.
• In vitro cytocompatibility and cell response assessments.

Main Results:

• Rapid, ion-triggered gelation suitable for fine-needle injection.
• Hydrogels mimic native soft tissue mechanics and possess porous architecture.
• Demonstrated cytocompatibility with various cell types and promotion of a pro-regenerative macrophage phenotype.
• Ultrasound stimulation confirmed no impairment to cell viability.

Conclusions:

• The developed hydrogel is user-friendly, cost-effective, and multifunctional.
• It offers potential for minimally invasive and remotely activated regenerative therapies.
• The platform supports cell infiltration, viability, and promotes a regenerative environment.