Cell-seeding techniques in vascular tissue engineering

In vivo effects of cell seeding technique in an ex vivo regional gene therapy model for bone regeneration

When delivering cells on a scaffold to treat a bone defect, the cell seeding technique determines the number and distribution of cells within a scaffold, however the optimal technique has not been established. This study investigated if human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) transduced with a lentiviral vector to overexpress bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and loaded on a scaffold using dynamic orbital shaker could reduce the total cell dose required to heal a critical sized bone defect when compared with static seeding. Human ASCs were loaded onto a collagen/biphasic ceramic scaffold using static loading and dynamic orbital shaker techniques, compared with our labs standard loading technique, and implanted into femoral defects of nude rats. Both a low dose and standard dose of transduced cells were evaluated. Outcomes investigated included BMP-2 production, radiographic healing, micro-computerized tomography, histologic assessment, and biomechanical torsional testing. BMP-2 production was higher in the orbital shaker cohort compared with the static seeding cohort. No statistically significant differences were noted in radiographic, histomorphometric, and biomechanical outcomes between the low-dose static and dynamic seeding groups, however the standard-dose static seeding cohort had superior biomechanical properties. The standard-dose 5 million cell dose standard loading cohort had superior maximum torque and torsional stiffness on biomechanical testing. The use of orbital shaker technique was labor intensive and did not provide equivalent biomechanical results with the use of fewer cells.

Dynamic Seeding versus Microinjection of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Acellular Nerve Allograft Reconstructions

BACKGROUND

Functional recovery after acellular nerve allograft (ANA) reconstruction remains inferior to that after autologous nerve grafting, but improved outcomes have been demonstrated with the addition of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Controversy exists regarding the optimal cell-delivery method to enhance ANA reconstructions. The authors investigated the functional recovery of ANAs after dynamic seeding versus microinjection of MSCs.

METHODS

Forty Lewis rats underwent reconstruction of a 10-mm sciatic nerve defect. Animals were divided into 4 groups: reversed autograft, ANA alone, dynamically seeded ANA, or ANA injected with MSCs. During the survival period, ultrasound measurements of the tibialis anterior muscle cross-sectional area were performed. At 12 weeks, functional recovery was evaluated using measurements of ankle contracture, compound muscle action potential, maximum isometric tetanic force, muscle mass, histomorphometry, and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

The dynamic seeding and microinjection groups demonstrated higher cross-sectional tibialis anterior muscle area recovery than autografts and ANAs alone at week 8 and weeks 4 and 8, respectively. The ankle contracture and compound muscle action potential amplitude recovery were superior in autografts and both seeding methods compared with ANAs alone. The microinjection group demonstrated significantly higher isometric tetanic force, muscle mass, and number of axons compared with ANAs alone. Both seeding methods showed higher CD34 densities compared with ANAs alone. No significant differences between dynamic seeding and microinjection were observed in functional or histologic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of MSCs to ANAs demonstrated earlier motor regeneration compared with autografts and ANAs alone. Both seeding methods improved functional outcomes in the rat sciatic nerve defect model.

Silicone cryogel skeletons enhance the survival and mechanical integrity of hydrogel-encapsulated cell therapies

The transplantation of engineered cells that secrete therapeutic proteins presents a promising method for addressing a range of chronic diseases. However, hydrogels used to encase and protect non-autologous cells from immune rejection often suffer from poor mechanical properties, insufficient oxygenation, and fibrotic encapsulation. Here, we introduce a composite encapsulation system comprising an oxygen-permeable silicone cryogel skeleton, a hydrogel matrix, and a fibrosis-resistant polymer coating. Cryogel skeletons enhance the fracture toughness of conventional alginate hydrogels by 23-fold and oxygen diffusion by 2.8-fold, effectively mitigating both implant fracture and hypoxia of encapsulated cells. Composite implants containing xenogeneic cells engineered to secrete erythropoietin significantly outperform unsupported alginate implants in therapeutic delivery over 8 weeks in immunocompetent mice. By improving mechanical resiliency and sustaining denser cell populations, silicone cryogel skeletons enable more durable and miniaturized therapeutic implants.

Multifunctionalised skin substitute of hybrid gelatin-polyvinyl alcohol bioinks for chronic wound: injectable vs. 3D bioprinting

Chronic wounds are challenging to heal and increase global mortality. The effectiveness of skin graft is limited by rejection, fibrosis, and inadequate donor site. Multifunctionalised-hydrogel skin substitutes promoted higher wound healing by maintaining the moisture microenvironment and permit gas exchange/nourishment in prolong cell viability/activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a skin substitute using two strategies; via injectable and 3D bioprinting technique. New hydrogel formulations that composed of gelatin (GE) and polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA) were constructed using a pre-mix crosslinking approach with genipin (GNP) to generate the biodegradable and biocompatible skin substitute with reduced secondary traumatic wound. GPVA5_GNP (6% GE: 5% PVA crosslinked with GNP) was the most stable hydrogel for wound healing application with the longest enzymatic degradation and stable hydrogel for absorption of excess wound exudates. Primary human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) migrated extensively through 3D bioprinted hydrogels with larger average pore sizes and interconnected pores than injectable hydrogels. Moreover, 3D bioprinted GPVA hydrogels were biocompatible with HDFs and demonstrated > 90% cell viability. HDFs maintained their phenotype and positively expressed collagen type-I, vinculin, short and dense F-actin, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and Ki67. Additionally, the presence of GNP demonstrated antioxidant capacity and high-ability of angiogenesis. The utilisation of the 3D bioprinting (layer-by-layer) approach did not compromise the HDFs' growth capacity and biocompatibility with selected bioinks. In conclusion, it allows the cell encapsulation sustainability in a hydrogel matrix for a longer period, in promoting tissue regeneration and accelerating healing capacity, especially for difficult or chronic wound.

Role of Physico-Chemical and Cellular Conditions on the Bone Repair Potential of Plastically Compressed Collagen Hydrogels

Since their first description nearly 20 years ago, dense collagen hydrogels obtained by plastic compression have become popular scaffolds in tissue engineering. In particular, when seeded with dental pulp stem cells, they have demonstrated a great in vivo potential in cranial bone repair. Here, we investigated how physico-chemical and cell-seeding conditions could influence the formation and in vitro mineralization of these cellularized scaffolds. A qualitative assessment demonstrated that the gel stability before and after compression was highly sensitive to the conditions of fibrillogenesis, especially initial acid acetic and buffer concentrations. Gels with similar rheological properties but different fibrillar structures that exhibited different stabilities when used for the 3D culture of Stem cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous teeth (SHEDs) could be prepared. Finally, in our optimal physico-chemical conditions, mineralization could be achieved only using human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) at a high cell density. These results highlight the key role of fibrillogenic conditions and cell type/density on the bone repair potential of cell-laden plastically compressed collagen hydrogels.

Dragging 3D printing technique controls pore sizes of tissue engineered blood vessels to induce spontaneous cellular assembly

To date, several off-the-shelf products such as artificial blood vessel grafts have been reported and clinically tested for small diameter vessel (SDV) replacement. However, conventional artificial blood vessel grafts lack endothelium and, thus, are not ideal for SDV transplantation as they can cause thrombosis. In addition, a successful artificial blood vessel graft for SDV must have sufficient mechanical properties to withstand various external stresses. Here, we developed a spontaneous cellular assembly SDV (S-SDV) that develops without additional intervention. By improving the dragging 3D printing technique, SDV constructs with free-form, multilayers and controllable pore size can be fabricated at once. Then, The S-SDV filled in the natural polymer bioink containing human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human aorta smooth muscle cells (HAoSMCs). The endothelium can be induced by migration and self-assembly of endothelial cells through pores of the SDV construct. The antiplatelet adhesion of the formed endothelium on the luminal surface was also confirmed. In addition, this S-SDV had sufficient mechanical properties (burst pressure, suture retention, leakage test) for transplantation. We believe that the S-SDV could address the challenges of conventional SDVs: notably, endothelial formation and mechanical properties. In particular, the S-SDV can be designed simply as a free-form structure with a desired pore size. Since endothelial formation through the pore is easy even in free-form constructs, it is expected to be useful for endothelial formation in vascular structures with branch or curve shapes, and in other tubular tissues such as the esophagus.

Strategies for Development of Synthetic Heart Valve Tissue Engineering Scaffolds

The current clinical solutions, including mechanical and bioprosthetic valves for valvular heart diseases, are plagued by coagulation, calcification, nondurability, and the inability to grow with patients. The tissue engineering approach attempts to resolve these shortcomings by producing heart valve scaffolds that may deliver patients a life-long solution. Heart valve scaffolds serve as a three-dimensional support structure made of biocompatible materials that provide adequate porosity for cell infiltration, and nutrient and waste transport, sponsor cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, and allow for extracellular matrix production that together contributes to the generation of functional neotissue. The foundation of successful heart valve tissue engineering is replicating native heart valve architecture, mechanics, and cellular attributes through appropriate biomaterials and scaffold designs. This article reviews biomaterials, the fabrication of heart valve scaffolds, and their in-vitro and in-vivo evaluations applied for heart valve tissue engineering.

A proposed model of xeno-keratoplasty using 3D printing and decellularization

Corneal opacity is a leading cause of vision impairment and suffering worldwide. Transplantation can effectively restore vision and reduce chronic discomfort. However, there is a considerable shortage of viable corneal graft tissues. Tissue engineering may address this issue by advancing xeno-keratoplasty as a viable alternative to conventional keratoplasty. In particular, livestock decellularization strategies offer the potential to generate bioartificial ocular prosthetics in sufficient supply to match existing and projected needs. To this end, we have examined the best practices and characterizations that have supported the current state-of-the-art driving preclinical and clinical applications. Identifying the challenges that delimit activities to supplement the donor corneal pool derived from acellular scaffolds allowed us to hypothesize a model for keratoprosthesis applications derived from livestock combining 3D printing and decellularization.

Recent Methods for Modifying Mechanical Properties of Tissue-Engineered Scaffolds for Clinical Applications

The limited regenerative capacity of the human body, in conjunction with a shortage of healthy autologous tissue, has created an urgent need for alternative grafting materials. A potential solution is a tissue-engineered graft, a construct which supports and integrates with host tissue. One of the key challenges in fabricating a tissue-engineered graft is achieving mechanical compatibility with the graft site; a disparity in these properties can shape the behaviour of the surrounding native tissue, contributing to the likelihood of graft failure. The purpose of this review is to examine the means by which researchers have altered the mechanical properties of tissue-engineered constructs via hybrid material usage, multi-layer scaffold designs, and surface modifications. A subset of these studies which has investigated the function of their constructs in vivo is also presented, followed by an examination of various tissue-engineered designs which have been clinically translated.

Construction of PLGA Porous Microsphere-Based Artificial Pancreatic Islets Assisted by the Cell Centrifugation Perfusion Technique

Pancreatic islet transplantation is a promising treatment that could potentially reverse diabetes, but its clinical applicability is severely limited by a shortage of organ donors. Various cell loading approaches using polymeric porous microspheres (PMs) have been developed for tissue regeneration; however, PM-based multicellular artificial pancreatic islets' construction has been scarcely reported. In this study, MIN6 (a mouse insulinoma cell line) and MS1 (a mouse pancreatic islet endothelial cell line) cells were seeded into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) PMs via an upgraded centrifugation-based cell perfusion seeding technique invented and patented by our group. Cell morphology, distribution, viability, migration, and proliferation were all evaluated. Results from glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) assay and RNA-seq analysis suggested that MIN6 and MS1-loaded PLGA PMs exhibited better glucose responsiveness, which is partly attributable to vascular formation during PM-dependent islet construction. The present study suggests that the PLGA PM-based artificial pancreatic islets may provide an alternative strategy for the potential treatment of diabetes in the future.

Engineered Vasculature for Cancer Research and Regenerative Medicine

Engineered human tissues created by three-dimensional cell culture of human cells in a hydrogel are becoming emerging model systems for cancer drug discovery and regenerative medicine. Complex functional engineered tissues can also assist in the regeneration, repair, or replacement of human tissues. However, one of the main hurdles for tissue engineering, three-dimensional cell culture, and regenerative medicine is the capability of delivering nutrients and oxygen to cells through the vasculatures. Several studies have investigated different strategies to create a functional vascular system in engineered tissues and organ-on-a-chips. Engineered vasculatures have been used for the studies of angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, as well as drug and cell transports across the endothelium. Moreover, vascular engineering allows the creation of large functional vascular conduits for regenerative medicine purposes. However, there are still many challenges in the creation of vascularized tissue constructs and their biological applications. This review will summarize the latest efforts to create vasculatures and vascularized tissues for cancer research and regenerative medicine.

The Osteogenic Role of Biomaterials Combined with Human-Derived Dental Stem Cells in Bone Tissue Regeneration

The use of stem cells in regenerative medicine had great potential for clinical applications. However, cell delivery strategies have critical importance in stimulating the differentiation of stem cells and enhancing their potential to regenerate damaged tissues. Different strategies have been used to investigate the osteogenic potential of dental stem cells in conjunction with biomaterials through in vitro and in vivo studies. Osteogenesis has a broad implication in regenerative medicine, particularly for maxillofacial defects. This review summarizes some of the most recent developments in the field of tissue engineering using dental stem cells.

Fabrication and Bioactivity of Peptide-Conjugated Biomaterial Tissue Engineering Constructs

Tissue engineering combines materials engineering, cells and biochemical factors to improve, restore or replace various types of biological tissues. A nearly limitless combination of these strategies can be combined, providing a means to augment the function of a number of biological tissues such as skin tissue, neural tissue, bones, and cartilage. Compounds such as small molecule therapeutics, proteins, and even living cells have been incorporated into tissue engineering constructs to influence biological processes at the site of implantation. Peptides have been conjugated to tissue engineering constructs to circumvent limitations associated with conjugation of proteins or incorporation of cells. This review highlights various contemporary examples in which peptide conjugation is used to overcome the disadvantages associated with the inclusion of other bioactive compounds. This review covers several peptides that are commonly used in the literature as well as those that do not appear as frequently to provide a broad scope of the utility of the peptide conjugation technique for designing constructs capable of influencing the repair and regeneration of various bodily tissues. Additionally, a brief description of the construct fabrication techniques encountered in the covered examples and their advantages in various tissue engineering applications is provided.

Effects of cell seeding technique and cell density on BMP-2 production in transduced human mesenchymal stem cells

Small animal models have demonstrated the efficacy of ex vivo regional gene therapy using scaffolds loaded with BMP-2-expressing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Prior to clinical translation, optimization of seeding techniques of the transduced cells will be important to minimize time and resource expenditure, while maximizing cell delivery and BMP-2 production. No prior studies have investigated cell-seeding techniques in the setting of transduced cells for gene therapy applications. Using BMP-2-expressing transduced adipose-derived MSCs and a porous ceramic scaffold, this study compared previously described static and dynamic seeding techniques with respect to cell seeding efficiency, uniformity of cell distribution, and in vitro BMP-2 production. Static and negative pressure seeding techniques demonstrated the highest seeding efficiency, while orbital shaking was associated with the greatest increases in BMP-2 production per cell. Low density cell suspensions were associated with the highest seeding efficiency and uniformity of cell distribution, and the greatest increases in BMP-2 production from 2 to 7 days after seeding. Our results highlight the potential for development of an optimized cell density and seeding technique that could greatly reduce the number of MSCs needed to produce therapeutic BMP-2 levels in clinical situations. Further studies are needed to investigate in vivo effects of cell seeding techniques on bone healing.

Self-snapping hydrogel-based electroactive microchannels as nerve guidance conduits

Peripheral nerve regeneration with large defects needs innovative design of nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) which possess anisotropic guidance, electrical induction and right mechanical properties in one. Herein, we present, for the first time, facile fabrication and efficient neural differentiation guidance of anisotropic, conductive, self-snapping, hydrogel-based NGCs. The hydrogels were fabricated via crosslinking of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) upon exposure with blue light, incorporated with graphene oxide (GO). Incorporation of GO and in situ reduction greatly enhanced surface charges, while decayed light penetration endowed the hydrogel with an intriguing self-snapping feature by the virtue of a crosslinking gradient. The hydrogels were in the optimal mechanical stiffness range for peripheral nerve regeneration and supported normal viability and proliferation of neural cells. The PC12 ​cells differentiated on the electroactive g-C₃N₄ H/rGO3 (3 ​mg/mL GO loading) hydrogel presented 47% longer neurite length than that of the pristine g-C₃N₄ H hydrogel. Furthermore, the NGC with aligned microchannels was successfully fabricated using sacrificial melt electrowriting (MEW) moulding, the anisotropic microchannels of the 10 ​μm width showed optimal neurite guidance. Such anisotropic, electroactive, self-snapping NGCs may possess great potential for repairing peripheral nerve injuries.

Fabrication of 3D cylindrical thermosensitive hydrogels as supports for cell culture and detachment of tubular cell sheets

Pseudo interpenetrating vinyl-caprolactam (VCL) based thermosensitive tubular hydrogels with a volume phase transition temperature, VPTT, around 35 °C, have been prepared by combining two different crosslinkers, a di-methacrylate (C1) and a di-vinyl urea (C2). The molar ratio between the two crosslinkers (for a global crosslinker molar percentage of 1.9) has shown to play a key role on the properties of the hydrogel. Increasing the amount of di-vinyl urea, leads to transparent but rather fragile materials and to a lower extent of thermosensitivity, that is, to a lower variation in the hydrogel swelling upon temperature change. However, tubes prepared with a selected crosslinker molar ratio C1/C2 of 65/35 provided a compromise between transparency, thermosensitivity and maneuverability and were, thus, evaluated as supports for cell culture using premyoblastic cells. These hydrogels, used as supports, allow for surface adhesion and cell proliferation until confluence, and eventually an efficient monolayer detachment (and transplant to a 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) support) through a controlled drop in temperature. As a result, this method permits to obtain tubular tissue constructs with potential applications in tissue engineering such as in the elaboration of vascular grafts.

Flow-induced glycocalyx formation and cell alignment of HUVECs compared to iPSC-derived ECs for tissue engineering applications

The relevance of cellular in vitro models highly depends on their ability to mimic the physiological environment of the respective tissue or cell niche. Static culture conditions are often unsuitable, especially for endothelial models, since they completely neglect the physiological surface shear stress and corresponding reactions of endothelial cells (ECs) such as alignment in the direction of flow. Furthermore, formation and maturation of the glycocalyx, the essential polysaccharide layer covering all endothelial surfaces and regulating diverse processes, is highly dependent on applied fluid flow. This fragile but utterly important macromolecular layer is hard to analyze, its importance is often underestimated and accordingly neglected in many endothelial models. Therefore, we exposed human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived ECs (iPSC-ECs) as two relevant EC models in a side-by-side comparison to static and physiological dynamic (6.6 dyn cm⁻²) culture conditions. Both cell types demonstrated an elongation and alignment along the flow direction, some distinct changes in glycocalyx composition on the surface regarding the main glycosaminoglycan components heparan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate or hyaluronic acid as well as an increased and thereby improved glycocalyx thickness and functionality when cultured under homogeneous fluid flow. Thus, we were able to demonstrate the maturity of the employed iPSC-EC model regarding its ability to sense fluid flow along with the general importance of physiological shear stress for glycocalyx formation. Additionally, we investigated EC monolayer integrity with and without application of surface shear stress, revealing a comparable existence of tight junctions for all conditions and a reorganization of the cytoskeleton upon dynamic culture leading to an increased formation of focal adhesions. We then fabricated cell sheets of EC monolayers after static and dynamic culture via non-enzymatic detachment using thermoresponsive polymer coatings as culture substrates. In a first proof-of-concept we were able to transfer an aligned iPSC-EC sheet to a 3D-printed scaffold thereby making a step in the direction of vascular modelling. We envision these results to be a valuable contribution to improvements of in vitro endothelial models and vascular engineering in the future.

Tissue Engineering Approaches to Uncover Therapeutic Targets for Endothelial Dysfunction in Pathological Microenvironments

Endothelial cell dysfunction plays a central role in many pathologies, rendering it crucial to understand the underlying mechanism for potential therapeutics. Tissue engineering offers opportunities for in vitro studies of endothelial dysfunction in pathological mimicry environments. Here, we begin by analyzing hydrogel biomaterials as a platform for understanding the roles of the extracellular matrix and hypoxia in vascular formation. We next examine how three-dimensional bioprinting has been applied to recapitulate healthy and diseased tissue constructs in a highly controllable and patient-specific manner. Similarly, studies have utilized organs-on-a-chip technology to understand endothelial dysfunction's contribution to pathologies in tissue-specific cellular components under well-controlled physicochemical cues. Finally, we consider studies using the in vitro construction of multicellular blood vessels, termed tissue-engineered blood vessels, and the spontaneous assembly of microvascular networks in organoids to delineate pathological endothelial dysfunction.

Evaluation of perfusion-driven cell seeding of small diameter engineered tissue vascular grafts with a custom-designed seed-and-culture bioreactor

Tissue engineering commonly entails combining autologous cell sources with biocompatible scaffolds for the replacement of damaged tissues in the body. Scaffolds provide functional support while also providing an ideal environment for the growth of new tissues until host integration is complete. To expedite tissue development, cells need to be distributed evenly within the scaffold. For scaffolds with a small diameter tubular geometry, like those used for vascular tissue engineering, seeding cells evenly along the luminal surface can be especially challenging. Perfusion-based cell seeding methods have been shown to promote increased uniformity in initial cell distribution onto porous scaffolds for a variety of tissue engineering applications. We investigate the seeding efficiency of a custom-designed perfusion-based seed-and-culture bioreactor through comparisons to a static injection counterpart method and a more traditional drip seeding method. Murine vascular smooth muscle cells were seeded onto porous tubular electrospun polycaprolactone scaffolds, 2 mm in diameter and 30 mm in length, using the three methods, and allowed to rest for 24 hours. Once harvested, scaffolds were evaluated longitudinally and circumferentially to assess the presence of viable cells using alamarBlue and live/dead cell assays and their distribution with immunohistochemistry and scanning electron microscopy. On average, bioreactor-mediated perfusion seeding achieved 35% more luminal surface coverage when compared to static methods. Viability assessment demonstrated that the total number of viable cells achieved across methods was comparable with slight advantage to the bioreactor-mediated perfusion-seeding method. The method described is a simple, low-cost method to consistently obtain even distribution of seeded cells onto the luminal surfaces of small diameter tubular scaffolds.

Recent scaffold-based tissue engineering approaches in premature ovarian failure treatment

Recently, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have received significant attention with outstanding advances. The main scope of this technology is to recover the damaged tissues and organs or to maintain and improve their function. One of the essential fields in tissue engineering is scaffold designing and construction, playing an integral role in damaged tissues reconstruction and repair. However, premature ovarian failure (POF) is a disorder causing many medical and psychological problems in women. POF treatment using tissue engineering and various scaffold has recently made tremendous and promising progress. Due to the importance of the subject, we have summarized the recently examined scaffolds in the treatment of POF in this review.

Dynamic seeding versus microinjection of mesenchymal stem cells for acellular nerve allograft: an in vitro comparison

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-supplemented acellular nerve allografts (ANA) are a potential strategy to improve the treatment of segmental nerve defects. Prior to clinical translation, optimal cell delivery methods must be defined. While two techniques, dynamic seeding and microinjection, have been described, the seeding efficiency, cell viability, and distribution of MSCs in ANAs are yet to be compared.

METHODS

Sciatic nerve segments of Sprague-Dawley rats were decellularized, and MSCs were harvested from the adipose tissue of Lewis rats. Cell viability was evaluated after injection of MSCs through a 27-gauge needle at different flow rates (10, 5, and 1 µL/min). MSCs were dynamically seeded or longitudinally injected into ANAs. Cell viability, seeding efficiency, and distribution were evaluated using LIVE/DEAD and MTS assays, scanning electron microscopy, and Hoechst staining.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference in cell viability after injection at different flow rates was seen. After cell delivery, 84.1 ± 3.7% and 87.8 ± 2.8% of MSCs remained viable in the dynamic seeding and microinjection group, respectively (p = 0.41). The seeding efficiency of microinjection (100.4%±5.6) was significantly higher than dynamic seeding (48.1%±8.6) on day 1 (p = 0.001). Dynamic seeding demonstrated a significantly more uniform cell distribution over the course of the ANA compared to microinjection (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

MSCs remain viable after both dynamic seeding and microinjection in ANAs. Higher seeding efficiency was observed with microinjection, but dynamic seeding resulted in a more uniform distribution. In vivo studies are required to assess the effect on gene expression profiles and functional motor outcomes.

Synthetic Vascular Graft with Spatially Distinct Architecture for Rapid Biomimetic Cell Organisation in a Perfusion Bioreactor

Access to lab-grown fully functional blood vessels would provide an invaluable resource to vascular medicine. The complex architecture and cellular makeup of native vessels, however, makes this extremely challenging to reproduce in vitro. Bioreactor systems have helped advanced research in this area by replicating many of the physiological conditions necessary for full-scale tissue growth outside of the body. A key element underpinning these technologies are 3D vascular graft templates which serve as temporary scaffolds to direct cell growth into similar cellular architectures observed in native vessels. Grafts further engineered with appropriate physical cues to accommodate the multiple cell types that reside within native vessels may help improve the production efficiency and physiological accuracy of bioreactor-grown vessel substitutes. Here, we engineered two distinct scaffold architectures into an electrospun vascular graft aiming to encourage the spatial organisation of human vascular endothelial cells (hCAECs) in a continuous luminal monolayer, co-cultured with human fibroblasts (hFBs) populating the graft wall. Using an electrospun composite of polycaprolactone (PCL) and gelatin, we evaluated physical parameters including fibre thickness, fibre alignment, and porosity, that best mimicked the spatial composition and growth of hCAECs and hFBs in native vessels. Upon identifying the optimal scaffold architectures for each cell type, we constructed a custom-designed mandrel that combined these distinct architectures into a single vascular graft during a single electrospinning processing run. When connected to a perfusion bioreactor system, the dual architecture graft spatially oriented hCAECs and hFBs into the graft wall and lumen, respectively, directly from circulation. This biomimetic cell organisation was consistent with positive graft remodelling with significant collagen deposition in the graft wall. These findings demonstrate the influence of architectural cues to direct cell growth within vascular graft templates and the future potential of these approaches to more accurately and efficiency produce blood vessel substitutes in bioreactor systems.

Uncertainties Associated with Clonogenic Assays using a Cs-137 Irradiator and Ir-192 Afterloader: A Comprehensive Compilation for Radiation Researchers

Clonogenic assays are the gold standard for measuring cell clonogenic survival and enable quantification of a cell line's radiosensitivity through the calculation of the surviving fraction, the ratio of cell clusters (colonies) formed after radiation exposure compared to the number formed without exposure. Such studies regularly utilize Cs-137 irradiators. While uncertainties for specific procedural aspects have been described previously, a comprehensive review has not been completed. We therefore quantified uncertainties associated with clonogenic assays performed using a Cs-137 Shepherd irradiator, and a recently established brachytherapy afterloader in vitro radiation delivery apparatus (BAIRDA), through a series of experiments and a literature review. The clonogenic assay is subject to uncertainties that affect the determination of the surviving fraction (e.g., accuracy of the number of cells seeded, potential effects of hypothermia, and the threshold number of cells for a cluster to be identified as a colony). Furthermore, dose delivery uncertainties related to both the Cs-137 irradiator and BAIRDA were also quantified. The combined standard (k = 1) uncertainty was ± 6.0% in the surviving fraction for the Cs-137 irradiator (±6.3% for BAIRDA), up to ± 1.3% in the dose delivered by the Cs-137 irradiator, and up to ± 2.2% in the dose delivered by BAIRDA. The largest individual uncertainties were associated with the number of cells seeded on a plate (3.4%) and inter-observer variability in counting (4.1%), suggesting that effective reduction of uncertainties in the conduct of the clonogenic assay proper may provide the greatest relief on the uncertainty budget. Finally, measurable impact on experimental findings was assessed by applying this uncertainty to clonogenic assays of SW756 cells using either a Cs-137 irradiator or BAIRDA, introducing a maximum shift in the reported radiobiological parameters a/b and T1/2 of 0.3 Gy and 0.4 h, respectively, while the 95% confidence interval increased by 0.5 Gy and decreased by 0.4 h, respectively. Though the overall impact on radiobiological parameter estimation was small, the individual uncertainties could have a significant influence in other applications of in vitro experiments in radiation biology. Hence, better understanding of the uncertainties associated with both clonogenic assays and the radiation source used can improve the accuracy of experimental analysis and reproducibility of the results.

Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Current Literature and Role in Periodontal Regeneration

Periodontal disease can cause irreversible damage to tooth-supporting tissues such as the root cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone, eventually leading to tooth loss. While standard periodontal treatments are usually helpful in reducing disease progression, they cannot repair or replace lost periodontal tissue. Periodontal regeneration has been demonstrated to be beneficial in treating intraosseous and furcation defects to varied degrees. Cell-based treatment for periodontal regeneration will become more efficient and predictable as tissue engineering and progenitor cell biology advance, surpassing the limitations of present therapeutic techniques. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into several cell types when stimulated. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been tested for periodontal regeneration in vitro and in humans, with promising results. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) possess a great regenerative and therapeutic potential. Their added benefits comprise ease of collection, endless source of stem cells, less immunorejection, and affordability. Further, their collection does not include the concerns associated with human embryonic stem cells. The purpose of this review is to address the most recent findings about periodontal regenerative mechanisms, different stem cells accessible for periodontal regeneration, and UC-MSCs and their involvement in periodontal regeneration.

Vascular Remodeling of Clinically Used Patches and Decellularized Pericardial Matrices Recellularized with Autologous or Allogeneic Cells in a Porcine Carotid Artery Model

Background: Cardiovascular surgery is confronted by a lack of suitable materials for patch repair. Acellular animal tissues serve as an abundant source of promising biomaterials. The aim of our study was to explore the bio-integration of decellularized or recellularized pericardial matrices in vivo. Methods: Porcine (allograft) and ovine (heterograft, xenograft) pericardia were decellularized using 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate ((1) Allo-decel and (2) Xeno-decel). We used two cell types for pressure-stimulated recellularization in a bioreactor: autologous adipose tissue-derived stromal cells (ASCs) isolated from subcutaneous fat of pigs ((3) Allo-ASC and (4) Xeno-ASC) and allogeneic Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJCs) ((5) Allo-WJC and (6) Xeno-WJC). These six experimental patches were implanted in porcine carotid arteries for one month. For comparison, we also implanted six types of control patches, namely, arterial or venous autografts, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE Propaten® Gore®), polyethylene terephthalate (PET Vascutek®), chemically stabilized bovine pericardium (XenoSure®), and detoxified porcine pericardium (BioIntegral® NoReact®). The grafts were evaluated through the use of flowmetry, angiography, and histological examination. Results: All grafts were well-integrated and patent with no signs of thrombosis, stenosis, or aneurysm. A histological analysis revealed that the arterial autograft resembled a native artery. All other control and experimental patches developed neo-adventitial inflammation (NAI) and neo-intimal hyperplasia (NIH), and the endothelial lining was present. NAI and NIH were most prominent on XenoSure® and Xeno-decel and least prominent on NoReact®. In xenografts, the degree of NIH developed in the following order: Xeno-decel > Xeno-ASC > Xeno-WJC. NAI and patch resorption increased in Allo-ASC and Xeno-ASC and decreased in Allo-WJC and Xeno-WJC. Conclusions: In our setting, pre-implant seeding with ASC or WJC had a modest impact on vascular patch remodeling. However, ASC increased the neo-adventitial inflammatory reaction and patch resorption, suggesting accelerated remodeling. WJC mitigated this response, as well as neo-intimal hyperplasia on xenografts, suggesting immunomodulatory properties.

Protein-Based Hydrogels: Promising Materials for Tissue Engineering

The successful design of a hydrogel for tissue engineering requires a profound understanding of its constituents' structural and molecular properties, as well as the proper selection of components. If the engineered processes are in line with the procedures that natural materials undergo to achieve the best network structure necessary for the formation of the hydrogel with desired properties, the failure rate of tissue engineering projects will be significantly reduced. In this review, we examine the behavior of proteins as an essential and effective component of hydrogels, and describe the factors that can enhance the protein-based hydrogels' structure. Furthermore, we outline the fabrication route of protein-based hydrogels from protein microstructure and the selection of appropriate materials according to recent research to growth factors, crucial members of the protein family, and their delivery approaches. Finally, the unmet needs and current challenges in developing the ideal biomaterials for protein-based hydrogels are discussed, and emerging strategies in this area are highlighted.

Current Progress in Vascular Engineering and Its Clinical Applications

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is caused by narrowing or blockage of coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is widely used for the treatment of severe CHD cases. Although autologous vessels are a preferred choice, healthy autologous vessels are not always available; hence there is a demand for tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) to be used as alternatives. However, producing clinical grade implantable TEVGs that could healthily survive in the host with long-term patency is still a great challenge. There are additional difficulties in producing small diameter (<6 mm) vascular conduits. As a result, there have not been TEVGs that are commercially available. Properties of vascular scaffolds such as tensile strength, thrombogenicity and immunogenicity are key factors that determine the biocompatibility of TEVGs. The source of vascular cells employed to produce TEVGs is a limiting factor for large-scale productions. Advanced technologies including the combined use of natural and biodegradable synthetic materials for scaffolds in conjunction with the use of mesenchyme stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide promising solutions for vascular tissue engineering. The aim of this review is to provide an update on various aspects in this field and the current status of TEVG clinical applications.

Bio-electrospraying assessment toward in situ chondrocyte-laden electrospun scaffold fabrication

Electrospinning has been widely used to fabricate fibrous scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering, but their small pores severely restrict cell infiltration, resulting in an uneven distribution of cells across the scaffold, particularly in three-dimensional designs. If bio-electrospraying is applied, direct chondrocyte incorporation into the fibers during electrospinning may be a solution. However, before this approach can be effectively employed, it is critical to identify whether chondrocytes are adversely affected. Several electrospraying operating settings were tested to determine their effect on the survival and function of an immortalized human chondrocyte cell line. These chondrocytes survived through an electric field formed by low needle-to-collector distances and low voltage. No differences in chondrocyte viability, morphology, gene expression, or proliferation were found. Preliminary data of the combination of electrospraying and polymer electrospinning disclosed that chondrocyte integration was feasible using an alternated approach. The overall increase in chondrocyte viability over time indicated that the embedded cells retained their proliferative capacity. Besides the cell line, primary chondrocytes were also electrosprayed under the previously optimized operational conditions, revealing the higher sensitivity degree of these cells. Still, their post-electrosprayed viability remained considerably high. The data reported here further suggest that bio-electrospraying under the optimal operational conditions might be a promising alternative to the existent cell seeding techniques, promoting not only cells safe delivery to the scaffold, but also the development of cellularized cartilage tissue constructs.

Comparison of mesenchymal stem cell attachment efficiency in acellular neural graft for peripheral nerve regeneration

Decellularized nerve allograft is an alternative to autologous nerve graft for nerve defects but has shown inferior clinical outcomes. Mesenchymal stem cells can play a key role in improving nerve regeneration of decellularized nerve allografts. The purpose of this study was to compare different mesenchymal stem cell seeding methods and to find the most efficient way to attach cells to nerve grafts for peripheral nerve regeneration. Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells were collected from human umbilical cords and were seeded in the acellular nerve graft in five different ways as follows: PBS injection, fibrin glue drop, Matrigel drop, bioreactor, and Matrigel injection. A 6-mm sciatic nerve defect of Sprague-Dawley rats was bridged using mesenchymal stem cells-laden acellular nerve grafts according to the five seeding methods. Two days after implantation, the nerve tissue was biopsied and analyzed by the immunofluorescence staining of nuclei. The number of Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cells (+ h Nuclei) was counted in the inside, outside, and the total area of the graft sections under 200X magnification. The highest efficiency of mesenchymal stem cell attachment inside the graft and the highest total number of attached mesenchymal stem cells was observed in the group using Matrigel injection (p < 0.0001). This study showed mesenchymal stem cells can be more effectively attached to decellularized nerve graft using the injection method with Matrigel than other static or dynamic seeding methods in vivo.

Systematic Review of Tissue-Engineered Vascular Grafts

Pathologies related to the cardiovascular system are the leading causes of death worldwide. One of the main treatments is conventional surgery with autologous transplants. Although donor grafts are often unavailable, tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) show promise for clinical treatments. A systematic review of the recent scientific literature was performed using PubMed (Medline) and Web of Science databases to provide an overview of the state-of-the-art in TEVG development. The use of TEVG in human patients remains quite restricted owing to the presence of vascular stenosis, existence of thrombi, and poor graft patency. A total of 92 original articles involving human patients and animal models were analyzed. A meta-analysis of the influence of the vascular graft diameter on the occurrence of thrombosis and graft patency was performed for the different models analyzed. Although there is no ideal animal model for TEVG research, the murine model is the most extensively used. Hybrid grafting, electrospinning, and cell seeding are currently the most promising technologies. The results showed that there is a tendency for thrombosis and non-patency in small-diameter grafts. TEVGs are under constant development, and research is oriented towards the search for safe devices.

Vascular Tissue Engineering: Challenges and Requirements for an Ideal Large Scale Blood Vessel

Since the emergence of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering more than half a century ago, one obstacle has persisted: the in vitro creation of large-scale vascular tissue (>1 cm³) to meet the clinical needs of viable tissue grafts but also for biological research applications. Considerable advancements in biofabrication have been made since Weinberg and Bell, in 1986, created the first blood vessel from collagen, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. The synergistic combination of advances in fabrication methods, availability of cell source, biomaterials formulation and vascular tissue development, promises new strategies for the creation of autologous blood vessels, recapitulating biological functions, structural functions, but also the mechanical functions of a native blood vessel. In this review, the main technological advancements in bio-fabrication are discussed with a particular highlights on 3D bioprinting technologies. The choice of the main biomaterials and cell sources, the use of dynamic maturation systems such as bioreactors and the associated clinical trials will be detailed. The remaining challenges in this complex engineering field will finally be discussed.

Can Cultured Meat Be an Alternative to Farm Animal Production for a Sustainable and Healthier Lifestyle?

Producing animal proteins requires large areas of agricultural land and is a major source of greenhouse gases. Cellular agriculture, especially cultured meat, could be a potential alternative for the environment and human health. It enables meat and other agricultural products to be grown from cells in a bioreactor without being taken from farm animals. This paper aims at an interdisciplinary review of literature focusing on potential benefits and risks associated with cultured meat. To achieve this goal, several international databases and governmental projects were thoroughly analyzed using keywords and phrases with specialty terms. This is a growing scientific domain, which has generated a series of debates regarding its potential effects. On the one hand the potential of beneficial effects is the reduction of agricultural land usage, pollution and the improvement of human health. Other authors question if cultured meat could be a sustainable alternative for reducing gas emissions. Interestingly, the energy used for cultured meat could be higher, due to the replacement of some biological functions, by technological processes. For potential effects to turn into results, a realistic understanding of the technology involved and more experimental studies are required.

Chitosan scaffolds with enhanced mechanical strength and elastic response by combination of freeze gelation, photo-crosslinking and freeze-drying

In this study, a new scaffold fabrication method based on the combination of a series of stabilization processes was set up to obtain chitosan scaffolds with improved mechanical properties for regeneration of load-bearing tissues. Specifically, thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) of chitosan solutions was used to obtain an open structure which was then stabilized by freeze-gelation and photo cross-linking. Freeze-gelation combined with freeze-drying permitted to obtain a porous structure with a 95 μm-mean pore size suitable for osteoblast cells' housing. Photo-crosslinking improved by ca. three times the scaffold compressive modulus, passing from 0,8 MPa of the uncrosslinked scaffolds to 2,2 MPa of the crosslinked one. Hydrated crosslinked scaffolds showed a good elastic response, with an 80% elastic recovery for at least 5 consecutive compressive cycles. The herein reported method has the advantage to not require the use of potentially toxic cross-linking agents and may be extended to other soft materials.

Enhancement of Endothelialization by Topographical Features Is Mediated by PTP1B-Dependent Endothelial Adherens Junctions Remodeling

Endothelial Cells (ECs) form cohesive cellular lining of the vasculature and play essential roles in both developmental processes and pathological conditions. Collective migration and proliferation of endothelial cells (ECs) are key processes underlying endothelialization of vessels as well as vascular graft, but the complex interplay of mechanical and biochemical signals regulating these processes are still not fully elucidated. While surface topography and biochemical modifications have been used to enhance endothelialization in vitro, thus far such single-modality modifications have met with limited success. As combination therapy that utilizes multiple modalities has shown improvement in addressing various intractable and complex biomedical conditions, here, we explore a combined strategy that utilizes topographical features in conjunction with pharmacological perturbations. We characterized EC behaviors in response to micrometer-scale grating topography in concert with pharmacological perturbations of endothelial adherens junctions (EAJ) regulators. We found that the protein tyrosine phosphatase, PTP1B, serves as a potent regulator of EAJ stability, with PTP1B inhibition synergizing with grating topographies to modulate EAJ rearrangement, thereby augmenting global EC monolayer sheet orientation, proliferation, connectivity, and collective cell migration. Our data delineates the crosstalk between cell-ECM topography sensing and cell-cell junction integrity maintenance and suggests that the combined use of grating topography and PTP1B inhibitor could be a promising strategy for promoting collective EC migration and proliferation.

Recent Advancements in Engineered Biomaterials for the Regeneration of Female Reproductive Organs

Various gynecologic diseases and chemoradiation or surgery for the management of gynecologic malignancies may damage the uterus and ovaries, leading to clinical problems such as infertility or early menopause. Embryo or oocyte cryopreservation-the standard method for fertility preservation-is not a feasible option for patients who require urgent treatment because the procedure requires ovarian stimulation for at least several days. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for patients diagnosed with premature menopause is contraindicated for patients with estrogen-dependent tumors or a history of thrombosis. Furthermore, these methods cannot restore the function of the uterus and ovaries. Although autologous transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue is being attempted, it may re-introduce malignant cells after cancer treatment. With the recent development in regenerative medicine, research on engineered biomaterials for the restoration of female reproductive organs is being actively conducted. The use of engineered biomaterials is a promising option in the field of reproductive medicine because it can overcome the limitations of current therapies. Here, we review the ideal properties of biomaterials for reproductive tissue engineering and the recent advancements in engineered biomaterials for the regeneration of female reproductive organs.

Generating adipose stem cell-laden hyaluronic acid-based scaffolds using 3D bioprinting via the double crosslinked strategy for chondrogenesis

Bioprinting of most cell-laden hydrogel scaffolds with the required structural integrity, mechanical modulus, cell adhesion, cell compatibility, and chondrogenic differentiation are still significant issues that affect the application of bioinks in cartilage tissue engineering. This study focuses on constructing printable bioinks by combining adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels and analyzing their ability to induce chondrogenesis using 3D bioprinting technology. First, biotinylated hyaluronic acid was synthesized via an adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) linker with amide bond formation to form HA-biotin (HAB). Both HAB and the as-received streptavidin were mixed to form a partially cross-linked HA-biotin-streptavidin (HBS) hydrogel through noncovalent bonding. After that, the partially cross-linked HBS hydrogel was mixed with sodium alginate and subsequently printed to form the HBSA hydrogel 3D scaffolds using a bioprinter. Finally, the 3D scaffolds of the HBSA (HBS + alginate) hydrogel were submerged into CaCl₂ solution to achieve a stable 3D HBSAC (HBSA + Ca²⁺) hydrogel scaffold through ion transfer crosslinking. The physical-chemical characteristics of the hybrid bioink compositions have been evaluated to determine the desired 3D bioprinting structure. Cytotoxicity and chondrogenic differentiation were also assessed to confirm that the double cross-linked HBSAC hydrogel scaffold was useful for chondrogenic formation. The results showed that partially crosslinking the biotinylated HA-based hydrogel with streptavidin has a significant effect on printability and structural integrity. Morphological analysis of a suitable 3D printed HBSAC hydrogel scaffold showed visible pores with the desired shape and geometry. We have concluded that the HBSAC hydrogel possesses a favorable biocompatibility profile. The HBSAC hydrogel can also secrete significantly higher amounts of chondrogenic marker genes at day 5 and sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAGs) from days 7 to 14 compared to the HA hydrogel, as determined via quantitative real-time PCR assay and Alcian blue staining and the DMMB assay.

Evaluation of the regenerative potential of decellularized skeletal muscle seeded with mesenchymal stromal cells in critical-sized bone defect of rat models

Background

The morbidities and complications reported in the reconstruction of large bony defects have inspired progression in the field of bioengineering, with a recent breakthrough for the use of decellularized skeletal muscle grafts (DSMG).

Aim

To assess the osteogenic potentials of seeded DSMG in vitro and to investigate bone regeneration in critical size defect in vivo.

Materials and Methods

Assessment of cell viability and characterization was carried out on seeded DSMG for different intervals in vitro. For in vivo experiments, histological analysis was performed for rat cranial defects for the following groups: (A) non-treated DSMG and (B) seeded DSMG after a period of 8 weeks.

Results

The in vitro experiment demonstrated the lack of cytotoxicity and inert properties of seeded DSMG; these facilitated the osteogenic differentiation and significant gene expressions, particularly of COL1A1, RUNX2, and OPN (1.9174 ± 0.11673, 1.1806 ± 0.02383, and 1.1802 ± 0.00775, respectively). In the in vivo experiment, superior results were detected in the seeded DSMG group which showed highly vascularized and cellular dense connective tissue with deposited bone matrix and multiple scattered islets of newly formed bone.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated the promising aspects of DSMG; however, there is a lack of studies to support further implications.

Liver bioengineering: Recent trends/advances in decellularization and cell sheet technologies towards translation into the clinic

Development of novel technologies provides the best tissue constructs engineering and maximizes their therapeutic effects in regenerative therapy, especially for liver dysfunctions. Among the currently investigated approaches of tissue engineering, scaffold-based and scaffold-free tissues are widely suggested for liver regeneration. Analogs of liver acellular extracellular matrix (ECM) are utilized in native scaffolds to increase the self-repair and healing ability of organs. Native ECM analog could improve liver repairing through providing the supportive framework for cells and signaling molecules, exerting normal biomechanical, biochemical, and physiological signal complexes. Recently, innovative cell sheet technology is introduced as an alternative for conventional tissue engineering with the advantage of fewer scaffold restrictions and cell culture on a Thermo-Responsive Polymer Surface. These sheets release the layered cells through a temperature-controlled procedure without enzymatic digestion, while preserving the cell-ECM contacts and adhesive molecules on cell-cell junctions. In addition, several novelties have been introduced into the cell sheet and decellularization technologies to aid cell growth, instruct differentiation/angiogenesis, and promote cell migration. In this review, recent trends, advancements, and issues linked to translation into clinical practice are dissected and compared regarding the decellularization and cell sheet technologies for liver tissue engineering.

Imminent antimicrobial bioink deploying cellulose, alginate, EPS and synthetic polymers for 3D bioprinting of tissue constructs

3D printing, one of its kinds has been a recent technological trend to fabricate complex and patterned biomaterial with controlled precision. With the conventional kick-start of printing metals and plastics, advancements in printing viable cells, polysaccharides or microbes themselves have been achieved. The additive antimicrobial properties in bioinks sourced from organic and inorganic materials have profound implications in tissue engineering. Cellulose, alginate, exopolysaccharides, ceramics and synthetic polymers are integrated as a viable component in inks and used for bio-printing. To date, bacterial infection and immunogenicity pose a potential health risk during a tissue implant or bone substitution. In order to mitigate microbial infection, antimicrobial bioinks with significant antimicrobial potential have been the much sought after strategies. This approach could be an effective frontline defense against microbial interference in tissue engineering and biomedical applications. An overview on the antimicrobial potential of polysaccharides as bioinks for 3D bioprinting has been critically reviewed.

Improving cell seeding efficiency through modification of fiber geometry in 3D printed scaffolds

Cell seeding on 3D scaffolds is a very delicate step in tissue engineering applications, influencing the outcome of the subsequent culture phase, and determining the results of the entire experiment. Thus, it is crucial to maximize its efficiency. To this purpose, a detailed study of the influence of the geometry of the scaffold fibers on dynamic seeding efficiency is presented. 3D printing technology was used to realize PLA porous scaffolds, formed by fibers with a non-circular cross-sectional geometry, named multilobed to highlight the presence of niches and ridges. An oscillating perfusion bioreactor was used to perform bidirectional dynamic seeding of MG63 cells. The fiber shape influences the fluid dynamic parameters of the flow, affecting values of fluid velocity and wall shear stress. The path followed by cells through the scaffold fibers is also affected and results in a larger number of adhered cells in multilobed scaffolds compared to scaffolds with standard pseudo cylindrical fibers. Geometrical and fluid dynamic features can also have an influence on the morphology of adhered cells. The obtained results suggest that the reciprocal influence of geometrical and fluid dynamic features and their combined effect on cell trajectories should be considered to improve the dynamic seeding efficiency when designing scaffold architecture.

Tissue Engineered Vascular Graft Recipient Interleukin 10 Status Is Critical for Preventing Thrombosis

Tissue engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) are a promising technology, but are hindered by occlusion. Seeding with bone-marrow derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) mitigates occlusion, yet the precise mechanism remains unclear. Seeded cells disappear quickly and potentially mediate an anti-inflammatory effect through paracrine signaling. Here, a series of reciprocal genetic TEVG implantations plus recombinant protein treatment is reported to investigate what role interleukin-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, plays from both host and seeded cells. TEVGs seeded with BM-MNCs from wild-type and IL-10 KO mice, plus unseeded grafts, are implanted into wild-type and IL-10 KO mice. Wild-type mice with unseeded grafts also receive recombinant IL-10. Serial ultrasound evaluates occlusion and TEVGs are harvested at 14 d for immunohistochemical analysis. TEVGs in IL-10 KO mice have significantly higher occlusion incidence compared to wild-type mice attributed to acute (<3 d) thrombosis. Cell seeding rescues TEVGs in IL-10 KO mice comparable to wild-type patency. IL-10 from the host and seeded cells do not significantly influence graft inflammation and macrophage phenotype, yet IL-10 treatment shows interesting biologic effects including decreasing cell proliferation and increasing M2 macrophage polarization. IL-10 from the host is critical for preventing TEVG thrombosis and seeded BM-MNCs exert a significant anti-thrombotic effect in IL-10 KO mice.

Evaluating the effects of vacuum on the microstructure and biocompatibility of bovine decellularized pericardium

The aim of this study was evaluating the effects of vacuum on microstructure and biocompatibility of bovine decellularized pericardium. So the bovine pericardia were decellularized and then the vacuum was applied for two periods of time; 90 and 180 min. DNA, glucose amino glycan, collagen and elastin content assay, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome stainings performed to evaluate microstructure of tissues. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test, subcutaneous implantation, and tensile test were used to assay biocompatibility and mechanical properties of decellularized tissues. The results showed that applying vacuum reduced residual DNA significantly. Vacuum after 180 min reduced more residual DNA. There were no significant differences in the content of glucose amino glycan (GAG), collagen, and elastin between the vacuumed and control groups. SEM examination was revealed that vacuum for 180 min increased pore size and porosity more than 90 min and control groups. H&E and Masson's trichrome stainings revealed extracellular matrix preservation after decellularization in all groups. Cell viability was increased in vacuumed samples significantly after 72 h in vaccumed samples. H&E staining and tensile test after implantation of tissues were showed less inflammation in the vacuum applied tissues and increased durability. The vacuum increased DNA removal, pore size, porosity, and biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo and durability of bovine decellularized pericardium in vivo. Considering the important role of time, more studies should be performed to optimize time, intensity, and method of application of vacuum in decellularization of different tissues as well as bovine pericardium.

Development of a Semi-Automated, Bulk Seeding Device for Large Animal Model Implantation of Tissue Engineered Vascular Grafts

Vascular tissue engineering is a field of regenerative medicine that restores tissue function to defective sections of the vascular network by bypass or replacement with a tubular, engineered graft. The tissue engineered vascular graft (TEVG) is comprised of a biodegradable scaffold, often combined with cells to prevent acute thrombosis and initiate scaffold remodeling. Cells are most effectively incorporated into scaffolds using bulk seeding techniques. While our group has been successful in uniform, rapid, bulk cell seeding of scaffolds for TEVG testing in small animals using our well-validated rotational vacuum technology, this approach was not directly translatable to large scaffolds, such as those required for large animal testing or human implants. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a semi-automated cell seeding device that allows for uniform, rapid, bulk seeding of large scaffolds for the fabrication of TEVGs appropriately sized for testing in large animals and eventual translation to humans. Validation of our device revealed successful seeding of cells throughout the length of our tubular scaffolds with homogenous longitudinal and circumferential cell distribution. To demonstrate the utility of this device, we implanted a cell seeded scaffold as a carotid interposition graft in a sheep model for 10 weeks. Graft remodeling was demonstrated upon explant analysis using histological staining and mechanical characterization. We conclude from this work that our semi-automated, rotational vacuum seeding device can successfully seed porous tubular scaffolds suitable for implantation in large animals and provides a platform that can be readily adapted for eventual human use.

Voltage-gated ion channels mediate the electrotaxis of glioblastoma cells in a hybrid PMMA/PDMS microdevice

Transformed astrocytes in the most aggressive form cause glioblastoma, the most common cancer in the central nervous system with high mortality. The physiological electric field by neuronal local field potentials and tissue polarity may guide the infiltration of glioblastoma cells through the electrotaxis process. However, microenvironments with multiplex gradients are difficult to create. In this work, we have developed a hybrid microfluidic platform to study glioblastoma electrotaxis in controlled microenvironments with high throughput quantitative analysis by machine learning-powered single cell tracking software. By equalizing the hydrostatic pressure difference between inlets and outlets of the microchannel, uniform single cells can be seeded reliably inside the microdevice. The electrotaxis of two glioblastoma models, T98G and U-251MG, requires an optimal laminin-containing extracellular matrix and exhibits opposite directional and electro-alignment tendencies. Calcium signaling is a key contributor in glioblastoma pathophysiology but its role in glioblastoma electrotaxis is still an open question. Anodal T98G electrotaxis and cathodal U-251MG electrotaxis require the presence of extracellular calcium cations. U-251MG electrotaxis is dependent on the P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) and T98G is dependent on the R-type VGCC. U-251MG electrotaxis and T98G electrotaxis are also mediated by A-type (rapidly inactivating) voltage-gated potassium channels and acid-sensing sodium channels. The involvement of multiple ion channels suggests that the glioblastoma electrotaxis is complex and patient-specific ion channel expression can be critical to develop personalized therapeutics to fight against cancer metastasis. The hybrid microfluidic design and machine learning-powered single cell analysis provide a simple and flexible platform for quantitative investigation of complicated biological systems.

A multilayered scaffold for regeneration of smooth muscle and connective tissue layers

Tissue regeneration often requires recruitment of different cell types and rebuilding of two or more tissue layers to restore function. Here, we describe the creation of a novel multilayered scaffold with distinct fiber organizations-aligned to unaligned and dense to porous-to template common architectures found in adjacent tissue layers. Electrospun scaffolds were fabricated using a biodegradable, tyrosine-derived terpolymer, yielding densely-packed, aligned fibers that transition into randomly-oriented fibers of increasing diameter and porosity. We demonstrate that differently-oriented scaffold fibers direct cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, and that scaffold fibers and ECM protein networks are maintained after decellularization. Smooth muscle and connective tissue layers are frequently adjacent in vivo; we show that within a single scaffold, the architecture supports alignment of contractile smooth muscle cells and deposition by fibroblasts of a meshwork of ECM fibrils. We rolled a flat scaffold into a tubular construct and, after culture, showed cell viability, orientation, and tissue-specific protein expression in the tube were similar to the flat-sheet scaffold. This scaffold design not only has translational potential for reparation of flat and tubular tissue layers but can also be customized for alternative applications by introducing two or more cell types in different combinations.

Combination of electrospinning with other techniques for the fabrication of 3D polymeric and composite nanofibrous scaffolds with improved cellular interactions

The development of three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds with physical and chemical topological cues at the macro-, micro-, and nanometer scale is urgently needed for successful tissue engineering applications. 3D scaffolds can be manufactured by a wide variety of techniques. Electrospinning technology has emerged as a powerful manufacturing technique to produce non-woven nanofibrous scaffolds with very interesting features for tissue engineering products. However, electrospun scaffolds have some inherent limitations that compromise the regeneration of thick and complex tissues. By integrating electrospinning and other fabrication technologies, multifunctional 3D fibrous assemblies with micro/nanotopographical features can be created. The proper combination of techniques leads to materials with nano and macro-structure, allowing an improvement in the biological performance of tissue-engineered constructs. In this review, we focus on the most relevant strategies to produce electrospun polymer/composite scaffolds with 3D architecture. A detailed description of procedures involving physical and chemical agents to create structures with large pores and 3D fiber assemblies is introduced. Finally, characterization and biological assays including in vitro and in vivo studies of structures intended for the regeneration of functional tissues are briefly presented and discussed.

Introducing human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells to AvanceⓇ nerve grafts and NeuraGenⓇ nerve guides

BACKGROUND

When direct nerve coaptation is impossible after peripheral nerve injury, autografts, processed allografts, or conduits are used to bridge the nerve gap. The purpose of this study was to examine if human adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells (MSCs) could be introduced to commercially available nerve graft substitutes and to determine cell distribution and the seeding efficiency of a dynamic seeding strategy.

METHODS

MTS assays examined the viability of human MSCs after introduction to the Avance^Ⓡ Nerve Graft and the NeuraGen^Ⓡ Nerve Guide. MSCs were dynamically seeded on nerve substitutes for either 6, 12, or 24 h. Cell counts, live/dead stains, Hoechst stains, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed the seeding efficiency and the distribution of MSCs after seeding.

RESULTS

The viability of MSCs was not affected by nerve substitutes. Dynamic seeding led to uniformly distributed MSCs over the surface of both nerve substitutes and revealed MSCs on the inner surface of the NeuraGen^Ⓡ Nerve Guides. The maximal seeding efficiency of NeuraGen^Ⓡ Nerve Guides (94%), obtained after 12 h was significantly higher than that of Avance^Ⓡ Nerve Grafts (66%) (p = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

Human MSCs can be dynamically seeded on Avance^Ⓡ Nerve Grafts and NeuraGen^Ⓡ Nerve Guides. The optimal seeding duration was 12 h. MSCs were distributed in a uniform fashion on exposed surfaces. This study demonstrates that human MSCs can be effectively and efficiently seeded onto commercially available nerve autograft substitutes in a timely fashion and sets the stage for the clinical application of MSC-seeded nerve graft substitutes clinically.