Work

Programmed biomolecule delivery to enable and direct cell migration for connective tissue repair

Year: 2017

Type: article

Abstract: Dense connective tissue injuries have limited repair, due to the paucity of cells at the wound site. We hypothesize that decreasing the density of the local extracellular matrix (ECM) in conjunction with releasing chemoattractive signals increases cellularity and tissue formation after injury. Using the knee meniscus as a model system, we query interstitial cell migration in the context of migratory barriers using a novel tissue Boyden chamber and show that a gradient of platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB) expedites migration through native tissue. To implement these signals in situ, we develop nanofibrous scaffolds with distinct fiber fractions that sequentially release active collagenase (to increase ECM porosity) and PDGF-AB (to attract endogenous cells) in a localized and coordinated manner. We show that, when placed into a meniscal defect, the controlled release of collagenase and PDGF-AB increases cellularity at the interface and within the scaffold, as well as integration with the surrounding tissue.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01955-w

Authors: Feini Qu, Julianne L. Holloway, John L. Esterhai, Jason A. Burdick, Robert L. Mauck

Institutions: Philadelphia VA Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania

Language: English

Topic: Electrospun Nanofibers in Biomedical Applications

Subfield: Biomaterials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,990