Functionalized Microparticles Producing Scaffolds in Combination with Cells

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2014

Authors

Custodio, CA (Author) Other; Santo, VE (Author) Other; Oliveira, MB (Author) Other; Gomes, ME (Author) Other; Rui Reis (Author) Other; Mano, JF (Author) Other

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS

Vol. 24

Pages: 1391-1400

ISSN: 1616-301X

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 38 Citations

Scopus - 39 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-008-P9R

DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201301516

Abstract (EN): The development of biologically instructive biomaterials with application for tissue regeneration has become the focus of intense research over the last years. This work reports a novel approach for the production of three-dimensional constructs for tissue engineering applications based on the assembly of chitosan microparticles exhibiting specific biological response with cells. Chitosan microparticles with a size range between 20 and 70 m are functionalized with platelet derived growth factor (PDFG-BB). The functionalization is achieved by previous immobilization of an anti-PDGF-BB antibody, using a water-soluble carbodiimide. When incubated with a cocktail of growth factors-platelet lysates, the previously functionalized particles are able to target PDGF-BB from the protein mixture. In vitro studies are carried out focusing on the ability of these systems to promote the assembly into a stable 3D construct triggered by the presence of human adipose stem cells, which act as crosslinker agents and induce the formation of a hydrogel network. The presence of immobilized growth factors gives to this system a biological functionality towards control on cell function. It is also bioresponsive, as cells drive the assembly process of the microgel. These versatile biomimetic microgels may provide a powerful tool to be used as an injectable system for non-invasive tissue engineering applications with additional control over cellular function by creating specific microenvironments for cell growth.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 10