Parabolic dependence of material properties and cell behavior on the composition of polymer networks via simultaneously controlling crosslinking density and crystallinity

Opposite Mechanical Preference of Bone/Nerve Regeneration in 3D-Printed Bioelastomeric Scaffolds/Conduits Consistently Correlated with YAP-Mediated Stem Cell Osteo/Neuro-Genesis

To systematically unveil how substrate stiffness, a critical factor in directing cell fate through mechanotransduction, correlates with tissue regeneration, novel biodegradable and photo-curable poly(trimethylene carbonate) fumarates (PTMCFs) for fabricating elastomeric 2D substrates and 3D bone scaffolds/nerve conduits, are presented. These substrates and structures with adjustable stiffness serve as a unique platform to evaluate how this mechanical cue affects the fate of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and hard/soft tissue regeneration in rat femur bone defect and sciatic nerve transection models; whilst, decoupling from topographical and chemical cues. In addition to a positive relationship between substrate stiffness (tensile modulus: 90-990 kPa) and hMSC adhesion, spreading, and proliferation mediated through Yes-associated protein (YAP), opposite mechanical preference is revealed in the osteogenesis and neurogenesis of hMSCs as they are significantly enhanced on the stiff and compliant substrates, respectively. In vivo tissue regeneration demonstrates the same trend: bone regeneration prefers the stiffer scaffolds; while, nerve regeneration prefers the more compliant conduits. Whole-transcriptome analysis further shows that upregulation of Rho GTPase activity and the downstream genes in the compliant group promote nerve repair, providing critical insight into the design strategies of biomaterials for stem cell regulation and hard/soft tissue regeneration through mechanotransduction.

4D Printing of Biocompatible Scaffolds via In Situ Photo-crosslinking from Shape Memory Copolyesters

The complexity of surgical treatments for large-area soft tissue injuries makes placing large implants into injury sites challenging. Aliphatic polyesters are often used for scaffold preparation in tissue engineering owing to their excellent biodegradability and biocompatibility. Scaffolds with shape-memory effect (SME) can also avoid large-volume trauma during the implantation. However, the complexity and diversity of diseases require more adaptable and precise processing methods. Four-dimensional (4D) printing, a booming smart material additive manufacturing technology, provides a new opportunity for developing shape memory scaffolds. With the aim of personalized or patient-adaptable soft tissues such as blood vessels, we developed a feasible strategy for fabricating scaffolds with fine architectures using 4D printing crosslinkable shape memory linear copolyesters using fused deposition modeling (FDM). To overcome the weak bonding strength of each printed layer during FDM, a catalyst-free photo-crosslinkable functional group derived from biocompatible cinnamic acid was embedded into the linear copolyesters as in situ crosslinking points during FDM printing. Under ultraviolet-assisted irradiation, the resulting 4D scaffold models demonstrated excellent SME, desirable mechanical performance, and good stability in a water environment owing to the chemical bonding between each layer. Moreover, the excellent biocompatibility of the scaffold was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The developed composite scaffolds could be used for minimally invasive soft tissue repair.

A composite membrane with microtopographical morphology to regulate cellular behavior for improved tissue regeneration

Tissue engineering scaffolds with specific surface topographical morphologies can regulate cellular behaviors and promote tissue repair. In this study, poly lactic(co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)/wool keratin composite guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membranes with three types of microtopographies (three groups each of pits, grooves and columns, thus nine groups in total) were prepared. Then, the effects of the nine groups of membranes on cell adhesion, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation were examined. The nine different membranes had clear, regular and uniform surface topographical morphologies. The 2 µm pit-structured membrane had the best effect on promoting the proliferation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), while the 10 µm groove-structured membrane was the best for inducing osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and PDLSCs. Then, we investigated the ectopic osteogenic, guided bone tissue regeneration and guided periodontal tissue regeneration effects of the 10 µm groove-structured membrane combined with cells or cell sheets. The 10 µm groove-structured membrane/cell complex had good compatibility and certain ectopic osteogenic effects, and the 10 µm groove-structured membrane/cell sheet complex promoted better bone repair and regeneration and periodontal tissue regeneration. Thus, the 10 µm groove-structured membrane shows potential to treat bone defects and periodontal disease. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: PLGA/wool keratin composite GTR membranes with microcolumn, micropit and microgroove topographical morphologies were prepared by dry etching technology and the solvent casting method. The composite GTR membranes had different effects on cell behavior. The 2 µm pit-structured membrane had the best effect on promoting the proliferation of rabbit BMSCs and PDLSCs and the 10 µm groove-structured membrane was the best for inducing the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and PDLSCs. The combined application of a 10 µm groove-structured membrane and PDLSC sheet can promote better bone repair and regeneration as well as periodontal tissue regeneration. Our findings may have significant potential for guiding the design of future GTR membranes with topographical morphologies and clinical applications of the groove-structured membrane/cell sheet complex.

Shape Memory Polyester Scaffold Promotes Bone Defect Repair through Enhanced Osteogenic Ability and Mechanical Stability

Bone tissue engineering involving scaffolds is recognized as the ideal approach for bone defect repair. However, scaffold materials exhibit several limitations, such as low bioactivity, less osseointegration, and poor processability, for developing bone tissue engineering. Herein, a bioactive and shape memory bone scaffold was fabricated using the biodegradable polyester copolymer's four-dimensional fused deposition modeling. The poly(ε-caprolactone) segment with a transition temperature near body temperature was selected as the molecular switch to realize the shape memory effect. Another copolymer segment, i.e., poly(propylene fumarate), was introduced for post-cross-linking and improving the regulation effect of the resulting bioadaptable scaffold on osteogenesis. To mimic the porous structures and mechanical properties of the native spongy bone, the pore size of the printed scaffold was set as ∼300 μm, and a comparable compression modulus was achieved after photo-cross-linking. Compared with the pristine poly(ε-caprolactone), the scaffold made from fumarate-functionalized copolymer considerably enhanced the adhesion and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells in vitro. In vivo experiments indicated that the bioactive shape memory scaffold could quickly adapt to the defect geometry during implantation via shape change, and bone regeneration at the defect site was remarkably promoted, providing a promising strategy to treat bone defects in the clinic, substantial bone defects with irregular geometry.

Bidirectional Iterative Approach to Sequence-Defined Unsaturated Oligoesters

Herein, we describe the development of a new strategy for the synthesis of unsaturated oligoesters via sequential metal- and reagent-free insertion of vinyl sulfoxonium ylides into the O-H bond of carboxylic acid. Like two directional coupling of amino acids (N- to C-terminal and C- to N-terminal) in peptide synthesis, the present approach offers a strategy in both directions to synthesize oligoesters. The sequential addition of the vinyl sulfoxonium ylide to the carboxylic acids (acid iteration sequence) in one direction and the sequential addition of the carboxylic acids to the vinyl sulfoxonium ylide (ylide iteration sequence) in another direction yield (Z)-configured unsaturated oligoesters. To perform this iteration, we have developed a highly regioselective insertion of vinyl sulfoxonium ylide into the X-H (X = O, N, C, S, halogen) bond of acids, thiols, phenols, amines, indoles, and halogen acids under metal-free reaction conditions. The insertion reaction is applied to a broad range of substrates (>50 examples, up to 99% yield) and eight iterative sequences. Mechanistic studies suggest that the rate-limiting step depends on the type of X-H insertion.

Poly(propylene fumarate)-based materials: Synthesis, functionalization, properties, device fabrication and biomedical applications

Poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) is a biodegradable polymer that has been investigated extensively over the last three decades. It has led many scientists to synthesize and fabricate a variety of PPF-based materials for biomedical applications due to its controllable mechanical properties, tunable degradation and biocompatibility. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the progress made in improving PPF synthesis, resin formulation, crosslinking, device fabrication and post polymerization modification. Further, we highlight the influence of these parameters on biodegradation, biocompatibility, and their use in a number of regenerative medicine applications, especially bone tissue engineering. In particular, the use of 3D printing techniques for the fabrication of PPF-based scaffolds is extensively reviewed. The recent invention of a ring-opening polymerization method affords precise control of PPF molecular mass, molecular mass distribution (Ɖ_M) and viscosity. Low Ɖ_M facilitates time-certain resorption of 3D printed structures. Novel post-polymerization and post-printing functionalization methods have accelerated the expansion of biomedical applications that utilize PPF-based materials. Finally, we shed light on evolving uses of PPF-based materials for orthopedics/bone tissue engineering and other biomedical applications, including its use as a hydrogel for bioprinting.

VEGF-mediated angiogenesis and vascularization of a fumarate-crosslinked polycaprolactone (PCLF) scaffold

PURPOSE

Revascularization of natural and synthetic scaffolds is a critical part of the scaffold's incorporation and tissue ingrowth. Our goals were to create a biocompatible polymer scaffold with 3D-printing technology, capable of sustaining vascularization and tissue ingrowth.

METHODS

We synthesized biodegradable polycaprolactone fumarate (PCLF) scaffolds to allow tissue ingrowth via large interconnected pores. The scaffolds were prepared with Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA) microspheres seeded with or without different growth factors including VEGF,FGF-2, and/or BMP-2. Scaffolds were implanted into the subcutaneous tissues of rats before undergoing histologic and microCT angiographic analysis.

RESULTS

At harvest after 12 weeks, scaffolds had tissue infiltrating into their pores without signs of scar tissue formation, fibrous capsule formation, or immune responses against PCLF. Histology for M1/M2 macrophage phenotypes confirmed that there were no overt signs of immune responses. Both microCT angiography and histologic analysis demonstrated marked tissue and vessel ingrowth throughout the pores traversing the body of the scaffolds. Scaffolds seeded with microspheres containing VEGF or VEGF with either BMP-2 or FGF-2 had significantly higher vascular ingrowth and vessel penetration than controls. All VEGF-augmented scaffolds were positive for Factor-VIII and exhibited collagen tissue infiltration throughout the pores. Furthermore, scaffolds with VEGF and BMP-2 had high levels of mineral deposition throughout the scaffold that are attributable to BMP-2.

CONCLUSIONS

PCLF polymer scaffold can be utilized as a framework for vascular ingrowth and regeneration of multiple types of tissues. This novel scaffold material has promise in tissue regeneration across all types of tissues from soft tissue to bone.

Chondrocyte Attachment, Proliferation, and Differentiation on Three-Dimensional Polycaprolactone Fumarate Scaffolds

Current treatment options for cartilage injuries are limited. The goals of this study are to create a biodegradable polymer scaffold with the capabilities of sustaining chondrocyte growth and proliferation, enable cell-to-cell communication and tissue regeneration through large pores, and assess the biological augmentation of the scaffold capabilities using platelet lysate (PL). We synthesized biodegradable polycaprolactone fumarate (PCLF) scaffolds to allow cell-cell communication through large interconnected pores. Molds were printed using a three-dimensional printer and scaffolds synthesized through UV crosslinking. Culture medium included alpha modified Eagle's media with either 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) or 5% PL, a mixture of platelet release products, after being seeded onto scaffolds through a dynamic bioreactor. Assays included cellular proliferation (MTS), toxicity and viability (live/dead immunostaining), differentiation (glycosaminoglycan [GAG], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], and total collagen), and immunostaining for chondrogenic markers collagen II and Sox 9 (with collagen I as a negative control). The large interconnected pores (500 and 750 μm) enable cell-to-cell communication and cellular infiltration into the scaffolds, as the cells remained viable and proliferated for 2 weeks. Chondrocytes cultured in PL showed increased rates of proliferation when compared with FBS. The chondrogenic markers GAG and total collagen contents increased over 2 weeks at each time point, whereas the osteogenic marker ALP did not significantly change. Immunostaining at 2 and 4 weeks for the expression of chondrogenic markers Collagen II and Sox 9 was increased when compared with control human fibroblasts. These results show that the PCLF polymer scaffold enables chondrocytes to attach, proliferate, and retain their chondrogenic phenotypes, demonstrating potential in chondrocyte engineering and cartilage regeneration.

A New Vertebral Body Replacement Strategy Using Expandable Polymeric Cages

We have developed a novel polymeric expandable cage that can be delivered via a posterior-only surgical approach for the treatment of noncontained vertebral defects. This approach is less invasive than an anterior-only or combined approach and much more cost-effective than currently used expandable metal cages. The polymeric expandable cage is composed of oligo poly(ethylene glycol) fumarate (OPF), a hydrogel that has been previously shown to have excellent nerve and bone tissue biocompatibility. OPF hydrogel cages can expand to twice their original diameter and length within a surgical time frame following hydration. Modulation of parameters such as polymeric network crosslink density or the introduction of charge to the network allowed for precise expansion kinetics. To meet specific requirements due to size variations in patient vertebral bodies, we fabricated a series of molds with varied diameters and explored the expansion kinetics of the OPF cages. Results showed a stable expansion ratio of approximately twofold to the original size within 20 min, regardless of the absolute value of the cage size. Following implantation of a dried OPF cage into a noncontained vertebral defect and its in situ expansion with normal saline, other augmentation biomaterials, such as poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF), can be injected to the lumen of the OPF cage and allowed to crosslink in situ. The OPF/PPF composite scaffold can provide the necessary rigidity and stability to the augmented spine.

A highly stretchable bioelastomer prepared by UV curing of liquid-like poly(4-methyl-ε-caprolactone) precursors

UV curing of PMCL precursors in the absence of any solvent or heating led to highly stretchable bioelastomers.

Ligament Tissue Engineering Using a Novel Porous Polycaprolactone Fumarate Scaffold and Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Grown in Platelet Lysate

PURPOSE

Surgical reconstruction of intra-articular ligament injuries is hampered by the poor regenerative potential of the tissue. We hypothesized that a novel composite polymer "neoligament" seeded with progenitor cells and growth factors would be effective in regenerating native ligamentous tissue.

METHODS

We synthesized a fumarate-derivative of polycaprolactone fumarate (PCLF) to create macro-porous scaffolds to allow cell-cell communication and nutrient flow. Clinical grade human adipose tissue-derived human mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) were cultured in 5% human platelet lysate (PL) and seeded on scaffolds using a dynamic bioreactor. Cell growth, viability, and differentiation were examined using metabolic assays and immunostaining for ligament-related markers (e.g., glycosaminoglycans [GAGs], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], collagens, and tenascin-C).

RESULTS

AMSCs seeded on three-dimensional (3D) PCLF scaffolds remain viable for at least 2 weeks with proliferating cells filling the pores. AMSC proliferation rates increased in PL compared to fetal bovine serum (FBS) (p < 0.05). Cells had a low baseline expression of ALP and GAG, but increased expression of total collagen when induced by the ligament and tenogenic growth factor fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2), especially when cultured in the presence of PL (p < 0.01) instead of FBS (p < 0.05). FGF-2 and PL also significantly increased immunostaining of tenascin-C and collagen at 2 and 4 weeks compared with human fibroblasts.

SUMMARY

Our results demonstrate that AMSCs proliferate and eventually produce a collagen-rich extracellular matrix on porous PCLF scaffolds. This novel scaffold has potential in stem cell engineering and ligament regeneration.

CO2-breathing and piercing polymersomes as tunable and reversible nanocarriers

Despite numerous studies on utilizing polymeric vesicles as nanocapsules, fabrication of tunable molecular pathways on transportable vesicle walls remains challenging. Traditional methods for building penetrated channels on vesicular membrane surface often involve regulating the solvent polarity or photo-cross-linking. Herein, we developed a neat, green approach of stimulation by using CO₂ gas as “molecular drill” to pierce macroporous structures on the membrane of polymersomes. By simply introducing CO₂/N₂ gases into the aqueous solution of self-assemblies without accumulating any byproducts, we observed two processes of polymeric shape transformation: “gas breathing” and “gas piercing.” Moreover, the pathways in terms of dimension and time were found to be adjustable simply by controlling the CO₂ stimulation level for different functional encapsulated molecules in accumulation, transport, and releasing. CO₂-breathing and piercing of polymersomes offers a promising functionality to tune nanocapsules for encapsulating and releasing fluorescent dyes and bioactive molecules in living systems and also a unique platform to mimic the structural formation of nucleus pore complex and the breathing process in human beings and animals.

Biomedical Applications of Biodegradable Polyesters

The focus in the field of biomedical engineering has shifted in recent years to biodegradable polymers and, in particular, polyesters. Dozens of polyester-based medical devices are commercially available, and every year more are introduced to the market. The mechanical performance and wide range of biodegradation properties of this class of polymers allow for high degrees of selectivity for targeted clinical applications. Recent research endeavors to expand the application of polymers have been driven by a need to target the general hydrophobic nature of polyesters and their limited cell motif sites. This review provides a comprehensive investigation into advanced strategies to modify polyesters and their clinical potential for future biomedical applications.

Tunable tissue scaffolds fabricated by in situ crosslink in phase separation system

Three-dimensional (3-D) scaffolds with intrinsic porous structures are desirable in various tissue regeneration applications. In this study, a unique method that combines thermally induced phase separation with a photocrosslinking process was developed for the fabrication of 3-D crosslinked polymer scaffolds with densely interconnected porous structures. Biodegradable poly(propylene fumarate)-co-poly(L-lactic acid) with crosslinkable fumarate bonds were used as the structural polymer material and a dioxane/water binary system was applied for the phase separation. By altering the polymer composition (9, 5 and 3 wt%), different types of scaffolds with distinct morphology, mechanical strength, degradation rate, cell growth and morphology, and extracellular matrix production were fabricated. These crosslinked 3-D porous scaffolds with tunable strength and biological responses show promise for potential applications in regenerative therapies, including bone and neural tissue engineering.

A primary study of poly(propylene fumarate)-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate copolymer scaffolds for tarsal plate repair and reconstruction in rabbit eyelids

Eyelid reconstruction includes anterior lamella reconstruction and posterior lamella reconstruction. As an important skeletal component of the posterior lamella, tarsal plates repair is the key issue for eyelid reconstruction. Presently, neither traditional surgery nor autograft/allograft has achieved satisfactory repair effects. Poly(propylene fumarate)-co-2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (PPF-HEMA) networks with mass ratios of 1 : 0.5, 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 were synthesized and used as the tarsal substitute in this study. Their chemical compositions, swelling ability, and mechanical properties were characterized. Porous scaffolds were fabricated by a gelatin particle leaching method. The in vitro studies of cytotoxicity on human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and degradation demonstrated that PPF-HEMA scaffolds did not have noticeable cell cytotoxicity and their degradation rates correlated with the ratio of PPF to HEMA. The PPF-HEMA networks, with mass ratios of 1 : 1 and 1 : 2, and an ADM control were implanted in rabbits with tarsal plate defects for in vivo biocompatibility and degradation behavior evaluation. PPF-HEMA scaffolds provided satisfactory repair results with mild tissue response and biocompatibility to fibroblast growth and fibrous capsulation compared to the ADM control. The tissue compatible and biodegradable PPF-HEMA networks with elastic mechanical properties were proven to be a suitable candidate for tarsal repair.

Biodegradable and crosslinkable PPF-PLGA-PEG self-assembled nanoparticles dual-decorated with folic acid ligands and rhodamine B fluorescent probes for targeted cancer imaging

Novel biodegradable and crosslinkable copolymers of hydrophobic poly(propylene fumarate)-co-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PPF-PLGA) linked with hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), namely PPF-PLGA-PEG, were developed and fabricated into core-shell nanoparticles through self-assembly and photocrosslinking. A fluorescent probe, rhodamine B (RhB), was conjugated to the end of the copolymer chain (PPF-PLGA-PEG-RhB), which allows tracking of the nanoparticles through visualizing the fluorescence probe. Folic acid (FA) ligand was conjugated to another series of chains (PPF-PLGA-PEG-FA) for targeted delivery of the nanoparticles to the tumor sites by binding to the ubiquitously overexpressed FA receptors on tumor cells. Our results showed that PPF-PLGA-PEG nanoparticles incorporated with RhB fluorescence probes and FA tumor binding ligands have specific cancer cell targeting and imaging abilities. These crosslinkable nanoparticles are potentially useful to serve as a platform for conjugation of fluorescence probes as well as various antibodies and peptides for cancer targeted imaging or drug delivery.

Roles of hydroxyapatite allocation and microgroove dimension in promoting preosteoblastic cell functions on photocured polymer nanocomposites through nuclear distribution and alignment

This study clarifies how hydroxyapatite (HA) allocation and microgroove dimension affect mouse preosteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell functions on microgrooved substrates of polymer nanocomposites. Using replica molding from micromachined silicon wafer templates, we fabricated photocured poly(ε-caprolactone) triacrylate (PCLTA)/HA nanocomposite substrates with parallel microgrooves (two groove widths of 5 and 15 μm and one groove depth of 5 μm). Four types of microgrooved substrates were made: "homogeneous" ones of PCLTA and PCLTA/HA with uniform distribution and two "heterogeneous" laminated microgrooved substrates with HA only in the PCLTA matrix in the ridges or bottom. These substrates were used to regulate MC3T3-E1 cell attachment, proliferation, alignment, nuclear circularity and distribution, and mineralization. MC3T3-E1 cell attachment and proliferation were much higher on the microgrooved substrates of PCLTA/HA than on those of PCLTA, in particular, on the 5 μm wide microgrooved substrate with PCLTA/HA ridges and PCLTA bottom. The shape and distribution of MC3T3-E1 cytoskeleton and nuclei were altered by the substrate topography and HA allocation. For 5 μm wide heterogeneous microgrooved substrates with HA only in the ridges, MC3T3-E1 cells exhibited better spreading perpendicular to the microgrooves but tended to extend along the microgrooves containing HA in the bottom. The widest cells and the roundest/largest cell nuclei were observed on the heterogeneous substrate with PCLTA/HA ridges, while the narrowest cells with the best elongation were found on the homogeneous PCLTA/HA substrate. The trend in MC3T3-E1 cell mineralization on the substrates was consistent with that in cell/nuclear elongation. Osteocalcin mRNA expression was significantly higher on the PCLTA/HA substrates than on the PCLTA ones and also on the microgrooved substrates of PCLTA/HA than on the flat ones, regardless of the groove width of 5 or 15 μm.

Facile synthesis of unsaturated polyester-based double-network gels via chemoselective cross-linking using Michael addition and subsequent UV-initiated radical polymerization

Michael addition and UV-initiated radical polymerization of vinyl monomers were used for a one-pot synthesis of polyester-based double-network (DN) gels by chemoselective cross-linking at room temperature.

Novel biodegradable poly(propylene fumarate)-co-poly(l-lactic acid) porous scaffolds fabricated by phase separation for tissue engineering applications

Scaffolds with intrinsically interconnected porous structures are highly desirable in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. In this study, three-dimensional polymer scaffolds with highly interconnected porous structures were fabricated by thermally induced phase separation of novel synthesized biodegradable poly(propylene fumarate)-co-poly(l-lactic acid) in a dioxane/water binary system. Defined porous scaffolds were achieved by optimizing conditions to attain interconnected porous structures. The effect of phase separation parameters on scaffold morphology were investigated, including polymer concentration (1, 3, 5, 7, and 9%), quench time (1, 4, and 8 min), dioxane/water ratio (83/17, 85/15, and 87/13 wt/wt), and freeze temperature (-20, -80, and -196 °C). Interesting pore morphologies were created by adjusting these processing parameters, e.g., flower-shaped (5%; 85/15; 1 min; -80 °C), spherulite-like (5%; 85/15; 8 min; -80 °C), and bead-like (5%; 87/13; 1 min; -80 °C) morphology. Modulation of phase separation conditions also resulted in remarkable differences in scaffold porosities (81% to 91%) and thermal properties. Furthermore, scaffolds with varied mechanic strengths, degradation rates, and protein adsorption capabilities could be fabricated using the phase separation method. In summary, this work provides an effective route to generate multi-dimensional porous scaffolds that can be applied to a variety of hydrophobic polymers and copolymers. The generated scaffolds could potentially be useful for various tissue engineering applications including bone tissue engineering.

Chemical and physical properties of regenerative medicine materials controlling stem cell fate

Regenerative medicine is a multidisciplinary field utilizing the potential of stem cells and the regenerative capability of the body to restore, maintain, or enhance tissue and organ functions. Stem cells are unspecialized cells that can self-renew but also differentiate into several somatic cells when subjected the appropriate environmental cues. The ability to reliably direct stem cell fate would provide tremendous potential for basic research and clinical therapies. Proper tissue function and regeneration rely on the spatial and temporal control of biophysical and biochemical cues, including soluble molecules, cell-cell contacts, cell-extracellular matrix contacts, and physical forces. The mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. This review focuses on the stem cell-extracellular matrix interactions by summarizing the observations of the effects of material variables (such as overall architecture, surface topography, charge, ζ-potential, surface energy, and elastic modulus) on the stem cell fate. It also deals with the mechanisms underlying the effects of these extrinsic, material variables. Insight in the environmental interactions of the stem cells is crucial for the development of new material-based approaches for cell culture experiments and future experimental and clinical regenerative medicine applications.

Photocured biodegradable polymer substrates of varying stiffness and microgroove dimensions for promoting nerve cell guidance and differentiation

Photocross-linkable and biodegradable polymers have great promise in fabricating nerve conduits for guiding axonal growth in peripheral nerve regeneration. Here, we photocross-linked two poly(ε-caprolactone) triacrylates (PCLTAs) with number-average molecular weights of ~7000 and ~10,000 g mol(-1) into substrates with parallel microgrooves. Cross-linked PCLTA7k was amorphous and soft, while cross-linked PCLTA10k was semicrystalline with a stiffer surface. We employed different dimensions of interests for the parallel microgrooves, that is, groove widths of 5, 15, 45, and 90 μm and groove depths of 0.4, 1, 5, and 12 μm. The behaviors of rat Schwann cell precursor line (SpL201) cells with the glial nature and pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells with the neuronal nature were studied on these microgrooved substrates, showing distinct preference to the substrates with different mechanical properties. We found different threshold sensitivities of the two nerve cell types to topographical features when their cytoskeleton and nuclei were altered by varying the groove depth and width. Almost all of the cells were aligned in the narrowest and deepest microgrooves or around the edge of microgrooves. Oriented SpL201 cell movement had a higher motility as compared to unaligned ones. After forskolin treatment, SpL201 cells demonstrated significantly upregulated S-100 and O4 on stiffer substrates or narrower microgrooves, suggesting more differentiation toward early Schwann cells (SCs). PC12 neurites were oriented with enhanced extension in narrower microgrooves. The present results not only improve our fundamental understanding on nerve cell-substrate interactions, but also offer useful conduit materials and appropriate feature dimensions to foster guidance for axonal growth in peripheral nerve regeneration.

Optimal poly(L-lysine) grafting density in hydrogels for promoting neural progenitor cell functions

Recently, we have developed a photopolymerizable poly(L-lysine) (PLL) that can be covalently incorporated into poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels to improve their bioactivity by providing positive charges. To explore the potential of these PLL-grafted PEGDA hydrogels as a cell delivery vehicle and luminal filler in nerve guidance conduits for peripheral and central nerve regeneration, we varied the number of pendent PLL chains in the hydrogels by photo-cross-linking PEGDA with weight compositions of PLL (φ(PLL)) of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 5%. We further investigated the effect of PLL grafting density on E14 mouse neural progenitor cell (NPC) behavior including cell viability, attachment, proliferation, differentiation, and gene expression. The amount of actually grafted PLL and charge densities were characterized, showing a proportional increase with the feed composition φ(PLL). NPC viability in 3D hydrogels was significantly improved in a PLL grafting density-dependent manner at days 7 and 14 postencapsulation. Similarly, NPC attachment and proliferation were promoted on the PLL-grafted hydrogels with increasing φ(PLL) up to 2%. More intriguingly, NPC lineage commitment was dramatically altered by the amount of grafted PLL chains in the hydrogels. NPC differentiation demonstrated a parabolic or nonmonotonic dependence on φ(PLL), resulting in cells mostly differentiated toward mature neurons with extensive neurite formation and astrocytes rather than oligodendrocytes on the PLL-grafted hydrogels with φ(PLL) of 2%, whereas the neutral hydrogels and PLL-grafted hydrogels with higher φ(PLL) of 5% support NPC differentiation less. Gene expression of lineage markers further illustrated this trend, indicating that PLL-grafted hydrogels with an optimal φ(PLL) of 2% could be a promising cell carrier that promoted NPC functions for treatment of nerve injuries.

Biodegradable photo-crosslinked polymer substrates with concentric microgrooves for regulating MC3T3-E1 cell behavior

Both intrinsic material properties and topographical features are critical in influencing cell-biomaterial interactions. We present a systematic investigation of regulating mouse pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell behavior on biodegradable polymer substrates with distinct mechanical properties and concentric microgrooves. The precursors for fabricating substrates used here were two poly(ϵ-caprolactone) triacrylates (PCLTAs) synthesized from poly(ϵ-caprolactone) triols with molecular weights of ∼7000 and ∼10000 g mol(-1) . These two PCLTAs were photo-crosslinked into PCL networks with distinct thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties at physiological temperature because of their different crystallinities and melting temperatures. Microgrooved substrates with four groove widths of 7.5, 16.1, 44.2, and 91.2 μm and three groove depths of 0.2, 1, and 10 μm were prepared through replica molding, i.e., photo-crosslinking PCLTA on micro-fabricated silicon wafers with pre-designed concentric groove patterns. MC3T3-E1 cell attachment and proliferation could be better supported by the stiffer substrates while not significantly influenced by the microgrooves. Microgroove dimensions could regulate MC3T3-E1 cell alignment, nuclear shape and distribution, mineralization, and gene expression. Among the microgrooves with a fixed depth of 10 μm, the smallest width of 7.5 μm could align and elongate the cytoskeleton and nuclei most efficiently. Strikingly, higher mineral deposition and upregulation of osteocalcin gene expression were found in the narrower microgrooves when the groove depth was 10 μm.

Promoting nerve cell functions on hydrogels grafted with poly(L-lysine)

We present a novel photopolymerizable poly(L-lysine) (PLL) and use it to modify polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels for creating a better, permissive nerve cell niche. Compared with their neutral counterparts, these PLL-grafted hydrogels greatly enhance pheochromocytoma (PC12) cell survival in encapsulation, proliferation, and neurite growth and also promote neural progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation capacity, represented by percentages of both differentiated neurons and astrocytes. The role of efficiently controlled substrate stiffness in regulating nerve cell behavior is also investigated and a polymerizable cationic small molecule, [2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium chloride (MTAC), is used to compare with this newly developed PLL. The results indicate that these PLL-grafted hydrogels are promising biomaterials for nerve repair and regeneration.

Lubricated biodegradable polymer networks for regulating nerve cell behavior and fabricating nerve conduits with a compositional gradient

We present a method of tuning surface chemistry and nerve cell behavior by photo-cross-linking methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) monoacrylate (mPEGA) with hydrophobic, semicrystalline poly(ε-caprolactone) diacrylate (PCLDA) at various weight compositions of mPEGA (ø(m)) from 2 to 30%. Improved surface wettability is achieved with corresponding decreases in friction, water contact angle, and capability of adsorbing proteins from cell culture media because of repulsive PEG chains tethered in the network. The responses of rat Schwann cell precursor line (SpL201), rat pheochromocytoma (PC12), and E14 mouse neural progenitor cells (NPCs) to the modified surfaces are evaluated. Nonmonotonic or parabolic dependence of cell attachment, spreading, proliferation, and differentiation on ø(m) is identified for these cell types with maximal values at ø(m) of 5-7%. In addition, NPCs demonstrate enhanced neuronal differentiated lineages on the mPEGA/PCLDA network at ø(m) of 5% with intermediate wettability and surface energy. This approach lays the foundation for fabricating heterogeneous nerve conduits with a compositional gradient along the wall thickness, which are able to promote nerve cell functions within the conduit while inhibiting cell attachment on the outer wall to prevent potential fibrous tissue formation following implantation.

Reformulating polycaprolactone fumarate to eliminate toxic diethylene glycol: effects of polymeric branching and autoclave sterilization on material properties

Polycaprolactone fumarate (PCLF) is a cross-linkable derivative of polycaprolactone diol that has been shown to be an effective nerve conduit material that supports regeneration across segmental nerve defects and has warranted future clinical trials. Degradation of PCLF (PCLF(DEG)) releases toxic small molecules of diethylene glycol used as the initiator for the synthesis of polycaprolactone diol. In an effort to eliminate this toxic degradation product we present a strategy for the synthesis of PCLF from either propylene glycol (PCLF(PPD)) or glycerol (PCLF(GLY)). PCLF(PPD) is linear and resembles the previously studied PCLF(DEG), while PCLF(GLY) is branched and exhibits dramatically different material properties. The synthesis and characterization of their thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties are reported. The results show that the linear PCLF(PPD) has material properties similar to the previously studied PCLF(DEG). The branched PCLF(GLY) exhibits dramatically lower crystalline properties resulting in lower rheological and mechanical moduli, and is therefore a more compliant material. In addition, the question of an appropriate Food and Drug Administration approvable sterilization method is addressed. This study shows that autoclave sterilization of PCLF materials is an acceptable sterilization method for cross-linked PCLF and has minimal effect on the PCLF thermal and mechanical properties.

Evolution of PVA gels prepared without crosslinking agents as a cell adhesive surface

Physical parameters (such as crosslinking density, crystallinity and mechanical properties) have been found to largely affect cellular behavior on polymer scaffolds. This study demonstrated that transparent pure Poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogels prepared via a freeze-thaw method can be made to support cell adhesion by controlling physical parameters such as concentration and the number of freeze-thaw cycles. For a given number of freeze-thaw cycles, (specifically 45), polymer concentration dependent structural and mechanical properties (such as tensile strength and stiffness) were correlated with cell adhesion. The maximum cell attachment occurred on the hydrogels with the greatest mechanical properties, crystallinity and crosslinking density. The hydrogel surfaces were more favorable to human dermal fibroblasts than human lens epithelial cells and retained their transparency as well as dimensional stability with only a small degree of swelling. Fibroblast laden hydrogels showed extensive alkaline phosphatase activity which confirmed their healthy proliferation and function. In this manner, this study suggests that transparent Poly (vinyl alcohol) hydrogels prepared by the freeze thaw method described here should be further studied for numerous tissue engineering applications.

Exposed hydroxyapatite particles on the surface of photo-crosslinked nanocomposites for promoting MC3T3 cell proliferation and differentiation

We present a systematic study for investigating the role of exposed hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles in influencing surface characteristics and mouse pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell behavior using nanocomposites prepared by photo-crosslinking poly(ε-caprolactone) diacrylate (PCLDA) with HA. PCLDA530 and PCLDA2000 synthesized from poly(ε-caprolactone) diol precursors with nominal molecular weights of 530 and 2000 g mol(-1) were used as the polymer matrices. Crosslinked PCLDA530 was amorphous while crosslinked PCLDA2000 was semi-crystalline. Crosslinked PCLDA/HA composites with different compositions of HA (10%, 20% and 30%) as well as crosslinked PCLDAs were characterized in terms of their composition-dependent physicochemical properties. The tensile, compressive and shear moduli were greatly enhanced by incorporating HA nanoparticles with the polymer matrices. The disk surfaces of original crosslinked PCLDA/HA nanocomposites were removed by cutting using a blade to expose HA nanoparticles that were embedded in the polymer substrates. The composition of HA was much higher on the cut surface, particularly in semi-crystalline crosslinked PCLDA2000/HA nanocomposites. The surface characteristics of original and cut crosslinked PCLDA/HA nanocomposites were compared and correlated with cell behavior on these nanocomposites. MC3T3-E1 cell attachment, proliferation and differentiation were significantly enhanced when the HA composition was increased in original crosslinked PCLDA/HA nanocomposites due to more bioactive HA, higher surface stiffness and rougher topography. More exposed HA on the surface of cut semi-crystalline PCLDA2000/HA nanocomposites resulted in improved hydrophilicity and significantly better MC3T3 cell attachment, proliferation and differentiation compared with the original surfaces. This study suggests that HA nanoparticles may not be fully exploited in polymer/HA nanocomposites where the top polymer surface covers the particles. The removal of this polymer layer can generate more desirable surfaces and osteoconductivity for bone repair and regeneration.

Polymers for Fabricating Nerve Conduits

Peripheral nerve regeneration is a complicated and long-term medical challenge that requires suitable guides for bridging nerve injury gaps and restoring nerve functions. Many natural and synthetic polymers have been used to fabricate nerve conduits as well as luminal fillers for achieving desired nerve regenerative functions. It is important to understand the intrinsic properties of these polymers and techniques that have been used for fabricating nerve conduits. Previously extensive reviews have been focused on the biological functions and in vivo performance of polymeric nerve conduits. In this paper, we emphasize on the structures, thermal and mechanical properties of these naturally derived synthetic polymers, and their fabrication methods. These aspects are critical for the performance of fabricated nerve conduits. By learning from the existing candidates, we can advance the strategies for designing novel polymeric systems with better properties for nerve regeneration.