Combinatorial and high-throughput screening of biomaterials

Cell division orientation on biospecific peptide gradients

An assay was developed for determining cell division orientation on gradients. The methodology is based on permeating microfluidic devices with alkanethiols and subsequent printing of cell adhesive peptide gradient self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) for examining oriented cell divisions. To our knowledge, there has been no study examining the correlation between cell division orientations based on an underlying ligand gradient. These results implicate an important role for how the extracellular matrix may control cell division. These surfaces would allow for a range of cell behavior (polarization, migration, division, differentiation) studies on tailored biospecific gradients and as a potential biotechnological platform to assess small molecule perturbations of cell function.

Porous membrane with reverse gradients of PDGF-BB and BMP-2 for tendon-to-bone repair: in vitro evaluation on adipose-derived stem cell differentiation

Polycaprolactone (PCL)/Pluronic F127 membrane with reverse gradients of dual platelet-derived growth factor-β (PDGF-BB) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) concentrations was fabricated using a diffusion method to investigate the effect of reverse gradients of dual growth factor concentrations on adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) differentiations, such as tenogenesis and osteogenesis. The PDGF-BB and BMP-2 were continuously released from the membrane for up to 35 days, with reversely increasing/decreasing growth factors along the membrane length. Human ASCs were seeded on the membrane with reverse PDGF-BB and BMP-2 gradients. The cells were confluent after 1 week of culture, regardless of growth factor types or concentrations on the membrane. Gene expression (real-time polymerase chain reaction), Western blot and immunohistological analyses after 1 and 2 weeks of ASC culture showed that the membrane sections with higher PDGF-BB and lower BMP-2 concentrations provided a better environment for ASC tenogenesis, while the membrane sections with higher BMP-2 and lower PDGF-BB concentrations were better for promoting osteogenesis. The results suggest that the membrane with reverse gradients of PDGF-BB and BMP-2 may be promising for tendon-to-bone repair, as most essential biological processes are mediated by gradients of biological molecules in the body.

A combinatorial cell-laden gel microarray for inducing osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells

Development of three dimensional (3D) microenvironments that direct stem cell differentiation into functional cell types remains a major challenge in the field of regenerative medicine. Here, we describe a new platform to address this challenge by utilizing a robotic microarray spotter for testing stem cell fates inside various miniaturized cell-laden gels in a systematic manner. To demonstrate the feasibility of our platform, we evaluated the osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) within combinatorial 3D niches. We were able to identify specific combinations, that enhanced the expression of osteogenic markers. Notably, these 'hit' combinations directed hMSCs to form mineralized tissue when conditions were translated to 3D macroscale hydrogels, indicating that the miniaturization of the experimental system did not alter stem cell fate. Overall, our findings confirmed that the 3D cell-laden gel microarray can be used for screening of different conditions in a rapid, cost-effective, and multiplexed manner for a broad range of tissue engineering applications.

Induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cell seeding on biofunctionalized calcium phosphate cements

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have great potential due to their proliferation and differentiation capability. The objectives of this study were to generate iPSC-derived mesenchymal stem cells (iPSC-MSCs), and investigate iPSC-MSC proliferati on and osteogenic differentiation on calcium phosphate cement (CPC) containing biofunctional agents for the first time. Human iPSCs were derived from marrow CD34+ cells which were reprogrammed by a single episomal vector. iPSCs were cultured to form embryoid bodies (EBs), and MSCs migrated out of EBs. Five biofunctional agents were incorporated into CPC: RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptides, fibronectin (Fn), fibronectin-like engineered polymer protein (FEPP), extracellular matrix Geltrex, and platelet concentrate. iPSC-MSCs were seeded on five biofunctionalized CPCs: CPC-RGD, CPC-Fn, CPC-FEPP, CPC-Geltrex, and CPC-Platelets. iPSC-MSCs on biofunctional CPCs had enhanced proliferation, actin fiber expression, osteogenic differentiation and mineralization, compared to control. Cell proliferation was greatly increased on biofunctional CPCs. iPSC-MSCs underwent osteogenic differentiation with increased alkaline phosphatase, Runx2 and collagen-I expressions. Mineral synthesis by iPSC-MSCs on CPC-Platelets was 3-fold that of CPC control. In conclusion, iPSCs showed high potential for bone engineering. iPSC-MSCs on biofunctionalized CPCs had cell proliferation and bone mineralization that were much better than traditional CPC. iPSC-MSC-CPC constructs are promising to promote bone regeneration in craniofacial/orthopedic repairs.

Reactivity mapping with electrochemical gradients for monitoring reactivity at surfaces in space and time

Studying and controlling reactions at surfaces is of great fundamental and applied interest in, among others, biology, electronics and catalysis. Because reaction kinetics is different at surfaces compared with solution, frequently, solution-characterization techniques cannot be used. Here we report solution gradients, prepared by electrochemical means, for controlling and monitoring reactivity at surfaces in space and time. As a proof of principle, electrochemically derived gradients of a reaction parameter (pH) and of a catalyst (Cu(I)) have been employed to make surface gradients on the micron scale and to study the kinetics of the (surface-confined) imine hydrolysis and the copper(I)-catalysed azide-alkyne 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition, respectively. For both systems, the kinetic data were spatially visualized in a two-dimensional reactivity map. In the case of the copper(I)-catalysed azide-alkyne 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition, the reaction order (2) was deduced from it.

Shape-controlled fabrication of micron-scale surface chemical gradients via electrochemically activated copper(i) "click" chemistry

We report an electrochemical method for the shape-controlled fabrication of micron-scale surface-bound chemical gradients. The approach is based on employing platinum microelectrode arrays on glass for the establishment of a Cu(i) solution gradient via local electrochemical reduction of Cu(ii) (cathodic reaction), and oxidation of the generated Cu(i) back to Cu(ii) (anodic reaction), under ambient conditions. The Cu(i) solution gradient, in the presence of an alkyne in solution and an azide monolayer on the glass surface in between the platinum electrodes, is exploited for the surface-confined gradient fabrication via the Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition (CuAAC). Owing to the high sensitivity of the CuAAC on the Cu(i) concentration, we demonstrate here the control of the shape of the micron-scale surface gradient, in terms of steepness and surface density, as a function of the reaction conditions. The surface gradients were assessed by fluorescence microscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (Tof-SIMS). Moreover, bi-component and biomolecular gradients have been fabricated and a method for the electrochemically mediated patterning of surface chemical gradients on external azide-functionalized substrates has been developed for the implementation of bi-directional 2D surface gradients.

Influence of discrete and continuous culture conditions on human mesenchymal stem cell lineage choice in RGD concentration gradient hydrogels

Stem cells have shown lineage-specific differentiation when cultured on substrates possessing signaling groups derived from the native tissue. A distinct determinant in this process is the concentration of the signaling motif. While several groups have been working actively to determine the specific factors, concentrations, and mechanisms governing the differentiation process, many have been turning to combinatorial and gradient approaches in attempts to optimize the multiple chemical and physical parameters needed for the next advance. However, there has not been a direct comparison between the cellular behavior and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells cultured in gradient and discrete substrates, which quantitates the effect of differences caused by cell-produced, soluble factors due to design differences between the culture systems. In this study, the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells in continuous and discrete polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDM) hydrogels containing an RGD concentration gradient from 0 to 14 mM were examined to study the effects of the different culture conditions on stem-cell behavior. Culture condition was found to affect every osteogenic (alkaline phosphatase, Runx 2, type 1 collagen, bone sailoprotein, and calcium content) and adipogenic marker (oil red and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) examined regardless of RGD concentration. Only in the continuous gradient culture did RGD concentration affect human mesenchymal stem-cell lineage commitment with low RGD concentrations expressing higher osteogenic differentiation than high RGD concentrations. Conversely, high RGD concentrations expressed higher adipogenic differentiation than low RGD concentrations. Cytoskeletal actin organization was only affected by culture condition at low RGD concentrations, indicating that it played a limited role in the differences in lineage commitment observed. Therefore, the role of discrete versus gradient strategies in high-throughput experimentation needs to be considered when designing experiments as we show that the respective strategies alter cellular outcomes even though base scaffolds have similar material and chemical properties.

Maximizing phenotype constraint and extracellular matrix production in primary human chondrocytes using arginine-glycine-aspartate concentration gradient hydrogels

New systematic approaches are necessary to determine and optimize the chemical and mechanical scaffold properties for hyaline cartilage generation using the limited cell numbers obtained from primary human sources. Peptide functionalized hydrogels possessing continuous variations in physico-chemical properties are an efficient three-dimensional platform for studying several properties simultaneously. Herein, we describe a polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDM) hydrogel system possessing a gradient of arginine-glycine-aspartic acid peptide (RGD) concentrations from 0mM to 10mM. The system is used to correlate primary human osteoarthritic chondrocyte proliferation, phenotype maintenance and extracellular matrix (ECM) production to the gradient hydrogel properties. Cell number and chondrogenic phenotype (CD14:CD90 ratios) were found to decline in regions with higher RGD concentrations, while regions with lower RGD concentrations maintained cell number and phenotype. Over three weeks of culture, hydrogel regions containing lower RGD concentrations experience an increase in ECM content compared to regions with higher RGD concentrations. Variations in actin amounts and vinculin organization were observed within the RGD concentration gradients that contribute to the differences in chondrogenic phenotype maintenance and ECM expression.

Primary human chondrocyte extracellular matrix formation and phenotype maintenance using RGD-derivatized PEGDM hydrogels possessing a continuous Young's modulus gradient

Efficient ex vivo methods for expanding primary human chondrocytes while maintaining the phenotype is critical to advancing the sourcing of autologous cells for tissue engineering applications. While there has been significant research reported in the literature, systematic approaches are necessary to determine and optimize the chemical and mechanical scaffold properties for hyaline cartilage generation using limited cell numbers. Functionalized hydrogels possessing continuous variations in physico-chemical properties are, therefore, an efficient three-dimensional platform for studying several properties simultaneously. Herein we describe a polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDM) hydrogel system with a modulus gradient (~27,000-3800 Pa) containing a uniform concentration of arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptide to enhance cell adhesion in order to correlate primary human osteoarthritic chondrocyte proliferation, phenotype maintenance, and extracellular matrix (ECM) production with hydrogel properties. Cell number and chondrogenic phenotype (CD14:CD90 ratios) were found to decline in regions with a higher storage modulus (>13,100 Pa), while regions with a lower storage modulus maintained their cell number and phenotype. Over 3 weeks culture hydrogel regions possessing a lower Young's modulus experienced an increase in ECM content (~200%) compared with regions with a higher storage modulus. Variations in the amount and organization of the cytoskeletal markers actin and vinculin were observed within the modulus gradient, which are indicative of differences in chondrogenic phenotype maintenance and ECM expression. Thus scaffold mechanical properties have a significant impact in modulating human osteoarthritic chondrocyte behavior and tissue formation.

Combinatorial on-chip study of miniaturized 3D porous scaffolds using a patterned superhydrophobic platform

One of the main challenges in tissue engineering (TE) is to obtain optimized products, combining biomaterials, cells and soluble factors able to stimulate tissue regeneration. Multiple combinations may be considered by changing the conditions among these three factors. The unpredictable response of each combination requires time-consuming tests. High-throughput methodologies have been proposed to master such complex analyses in TE. Usually, these tests are performed using cells cultured into 2D biomaterials or by dispensing arrays of cell-loaded hydrogels. For the first time an on-chip combinatorial study of 3D miniaturized porous scaffolds is proposed, using a patterned bioinspired superhydrophobic platform. Arrays of biomaterials are dispensed and processed in situ as porous scaffolds with distinct composition, surface characteristics, porosity/pore size, and mechanical properties. On-chip porosity, pore size, and mechanical properties of scaffolds based on chitosan and alginate are assessed by adapting microcomputed tomography equipment and a dynamic mechanical analyzer, as well as cell response after 24 hours. The interactions between cell types of two distinct origins-osteoblast-like and fibroblasts-and the scaffolds modified with fibronectin are studied and validated by comparison with conventional destructive methods (dsDNA quantification and MTS tests). Physical and biological on-chip analyses are coherent with the conventional measures, and conclusions about the most favorable conditions for each cell type are taken.

Label-free segmentation of Co-cultured cells on a nanotopographical gradient

The function and fate of cells is influenced by many different factors, one of which is surface topography of the support culture substrate. Systematic studies of nanotopography and cell response have typically been limited to single cell types and a small set of topographical variations. Here, we show a radical expansion of experimental throughput using automated detection, measurement, and classification of co-cultured cells on a nanopillar array where feature height changes continuously from planar to 250 nm over 9 mm. Individual cells are identified and characterized by more than 200 descriptors, which are used to construct a set of rules for label-free segmentation into individual cell types. Using this approach we can achieve label-free segmentation with 84% confidence across large image data sets and suggest optimized surface parameters for nanostructuring of implant devices such as vascular stents.

Materiomics: an -omics approach to biomaterials research

The past fifty years have seen a surge in the use of materials for clinical application, but in order to understand and exploit their full potential, the scientific complexity at both sides of the interface--the material on the one hand and the living organism on the other hand--needs to be considered. Technologies such as combinatorial chemistry, recombinant DNA as well as computational multi-scale methods can generate libraries with a very large number of material properties whereas on the other side, the body will respond to them depending on the biological context. Typically, biological systems are investigated using both holistic and reductionist approaches such as whole genome expression profiling, systems biology and high throughput genetic or compound screening, as already seen, for example, in pharmacology and genetics. The field of biomaterials research is only beginning to develop and adopt these approaches, an effort which we refer to as "materiomics". In this review, we describe the current status of the field, and its past and future impact on the biomedical sciences. We outline how materiomics sets the stage for a transformative change in the approach to biomaterials research to enable the design of tailored and functional materials for a variety of properties in fields as diverse as tissue engineering, disease diagnosis and de novo materials design, by combining powerful computational modelling and screening with advanced experimental techniques.

Biocomposites of pHEMA with HA/β -TCP (60/40) for bone tissue engineering: Swelling, hydrolytic degradation, and in vitro behavior

The field of bone and cartilage tissue engineering has a pressing need for novel, biocompatible, biodegradable biocomposites comprising polymers with bioceramics or bioglasses to meet numerous requirements for these applications. We created hydrolytically degradable hydrogel/bioceramic biocomposites, comprising poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) hydrogels and 50 wt% biphasic hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate (60/40) through in situ polymerization. The hydrolytic degradation starts with hydrolysis of the cross-linker, N, O-dimethacryloyl hydroxylamine, which was synthesized in house. Swelling and degradation were examined in details at a phosphate buffered saline solution at 37 °C over a 12-week period of time. To vary degradability, a co-monomer, acrylic acid (AA) or 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylamide (HPMA), was introduced, coupled with altering the concentration of the cross-linker and of the bioceramic. The co-monomer HPMA was found to be more effective than AA in enhancing degradation, though AA led to greater swelling ratios. 33% of weight loss was achieved in some of the biocomposites containing HPMA. Porous structures were developed during swelling and degradation in biocomposites with AA but not in those containing HPMA, suggesting different degradation mechanisms: bulk erosion vs. bulk degradation. Good biocompatibility, as evidenced by attachment and proliferation of mouse-derived osteoblast precursor cells from the MC3T3-E1 lineage, was observed on these biomaterials, regardless of the type of the co-monomer. The rationale and approaches employed here open up new opportunities for creating novel, complex organic-inorganic biomaterials in orthopedic tissue engineering.

Extracellular matrix protein adsorption to phosphate-functionalized gels from serum promotes osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells

One of the primary goals for tissue engineering is to induce new tissue formation by stimulating specific cell function. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are a particularly important cell type that has been widely studied for differentiation down the osteogenic (bone) lineage, and we recently found that simple phosphate functional groups incorporated into poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogels could induce osteogenesis without using differentiation medium by unknown mechanisms. Here, we aimed to determine whether direct or indirect cell/materials interactions were responsible for directing hMSCs down the osteogenic lineage on phosphate (PO(4))-functionalized PEG hydrogels. Our results indicated that serum components adsorbed onto PO(4)-PEG hydrogels from medium in a presoaking step were sufficient for attachment and spreading of hMSCs, even when seeded in serum-free conditions. Blocking antibodies for collagen and fibronectin (targeted to the hydrogel), as well as β1 and β3 integrin blocking antibodies (targeted to the cells), each reduced attachment of hMSCs to PO(4)-PEG hydrogels, suggesting that integrin-mediated interactions between cells and adsorbed matrix components facilitate attachment and spreading. Outside-in signaling, and not merely shape change, was found to be required for osteogenesis, as alkaline phosphatase activity and expression of CBFA1, osteopontin and collagen-1 were each significantly down regulated upon inhibition of focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation even though the focal adhesion structure or cell shape was unchanged. Our results demonstrate that complex function (i.e. osteogenic differentiation) can be controlled using simple functionalization strategies, such as incorporation of PO(4), but that the role of these materials may be due to more complex influences than has previously been appreciated.

Combinatorial synthesis of photo-crosslinked biodegradable networks

PURPOSE

Photo-crosslinking is a technique that can accelerate the development of novel polymeric biomaterials.

METHODS

Here we show the development of a combinatorial platform to synthesize numerous synthetic biodegradable and biocompatible networks by photo-crosslinking mixtures of macromers.

RESULTS

Combinations of dimethacrylate-terminated macromers based on hydrophobic D,L-lactide (DLLA), trimethylene carbonate (TMC), epsilon-caprolactone (CL), and hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) were crosslinked into polymer networks with widely differing properties. The interaction of cells with the network surfaces was assessed by an in vitro cell seeding experiment in which cell proliferation was assessed using a DNA proliferation assay.

CONCLUSIONS

In this way, a hydrophilic material was identified that unexpectedly supported the proliferation of cells very well.

Combinatorial Design of Hydrolytically Degradable, Bone-like Biocomposites Based on PHEMA and Hydroxyapatite

With advantages such as design flexibility in modifying degradation, surface chemistry, and topography, synthetic bone-graft substitutes are increasingly demanded in orthopedic tissue engineering to meet various requirements in the growing numbers of cases of skeletal impairment worldwide. Using a combinatorial approach, we developed a series of biocompatible, hydrolytically degradable, elastomeric, bone-like biocomposites, comprising 60 wt% poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid), poly(HEMA-co-MA), and 40 wt% bioceramic hydroxyapatite (HA). Hydrolytic degradation of the biocomposites is rendered by a degradable macromer/crosslinker, dimethacrylated poly(lactide-b-ethylene glycol-b-lactide), which first degrades to break up 3-D hydrogel networks, followed by dissolution of linear pHEMA macromolecules and bioceramic particles. Swelling and degradation were examined at Hank's balanced salt solution at 37 °C in a 12-week period of time. The degradation is strongly modulated by altering the concentration of the co-monomer of methacrylic acid and of the macromer, and chain length/molecular weight of the macromer. 95% weight loss in mass is achieved after degradation for 12 weeks in a composition consisting of HEMA/MA/Macromer = 0/60/40, while 90% weight loss is seen after degradation only for 4 weeks in a composition composed of HEMA/MA/Macromer = 27/13/60 using a longer chain macromer. For compositions without a co-monomer, only about 14% is achieved in weight loss after 12-week degradation. These novel biomaterials offer numerous possibilities as drug delivery carriers and bone grafts particularly for low and medium load-bearing applications.

Fabrication of nanofiber scaffolds with gradations in fiber organization and their potential applications

A new and simple method for fabrication of nanofiber scaffolds with gradations in fiber organization is reported. The nanofiber organization, achieved by deposition of random fibers on the uniaxially aligned nanofiber mat in a gradient manner, directed morphological changes of applied adipose-derived stem cells. These morphological changes and resultant biochemical changes can help mimic the structural orientation of complex biomechanical structures like the collagen fiber structure at the tendon-to-bone insertion site. In addition, chemical gradients can be established through nanoencapsulation in this novel scaffold allowing for enhanced biomedical applications.

Microarrayed Materials for Stem Cells

Stem cells hold remarkable promise for applications in disease modeling, cancer therapy and regenerative medicine. Despite the significant progress made during the last decade, designing materials to control stem cell fate remains challenging. As an alternative, materials microarray technology has received great attention because it allows for high throughput materials synthesis and screening at a reasonable cost. Here, we discuss recent developments in materials microarray technology and their applications in stem cell engineering. Future opportunities in the field will also be reviewed.

A dual gradient assay for the parametric analysis of cell-surface interactions

Cellular response to microgrooves is addressed using a new assay format, comprising orthogonal gradients of continuously varied groove pitch and depth. Dual layer etch masks are created using a combination of micropatterning and plasma polymer deposition. A silicon substrate with a constant groove width of 8 μm and with ridge width increasing from 8 μm in 0.5 μm steps across 10 mm is fabricated by photolithography. A plasma-polymerized hexane film which is 120 nm thick at one end of these grooves, and 10 nm at the other, is deposited under a diffusion mask. Reactive etching of the patterned sample transfers a gradient of groove pitch and groove depth into the silicon substrate. A silicon master with a gradient of groove depth spanning more than two orders of magnitude (less than 10 nm to over 1000 nm) is used to create an injection molding inlay for mass replication of the screening topography. Polycarbonate replicas are molded for use in cell culture studies, and the functionality of the topography as a high-throughput screening platform is investigated. The response of MDCK, h-TERT fibroblasts, and LE2 endothelial cells is examined, in terms of attachment and morphological response to the variation in topographical cues, with the aim of pinpointing the optimal combination of groove pitch and depth to elicit a tailored response from each cell type. When the range of topographical features screened on a single substrate is considered, this new assay represents a significant step forward in the parametric design and analysis of topographical cues at the biomaterial interface.

Surface modification and drug delivery for biointegration

Biointegration refers to the interconnection between a biomedical device and the recipient tissue. In many implant devices, the lack of proper biointegration can cause device failure and potentially serious medical problems. This review summarizes the recent progress in surface chemistry, drug delivery and antifouling methods to improve the biointegration of implants. Much progress has been made as our understanding of biological systems and material properties expands and as new technologies become available. This article addresses methods of enhancing biointegration by means of modifying implant surface chemistry and by drug-delivery approaches.

Fast-degradable microbeads encapsulating human umbilical cord stem cells in alginate for muscle tissue engineering

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) are inexhaustible and can be obtained without an invasive surgery. To date, there has been no report on seeding hUCMSCs in three-dimensional scaffolds for muscle tissue engineering. The objectives of this study were to (1) investigate hUCMSC seeding in a scaffold for muscle engineering and (2) develop a novel construct consisting of hUCMSC-encapsulating and fast-degradable microbeads inside a hydrogel matrix. The rationale was that the hydrogel matrix would maintain the defect volume, while the microbeads would degrade to release the cells and concomitantly create macropores in the matrix. hUCMSCs were encapsulated in alginate-fibrin microbeads, which were packed in an Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-modified alginate matrix (AM). This construct is referred to as hUCMSC-microbead-AM. The control consisted of the usual cell encapsulation in AM without microbeads (referred to as hUCMSC-AM). In the hUCMSC-AM construct, the hUCMSCs showed as round dots with no spreading at 1-14 days. In contrast, cells in the hUCMSC-microbead-AM construct had a healthy spreading and elongated morphology. The microbeads successfully degraded and released the cells at 8 days. Myogenic expressions for hUCMSC-microbead-AM were more than threefold those of hUCMSC-AM (p<0.05). Immunofluorescence for myogenic markers was much stronger for hUCMSC-microbead-AM than hUCMSC-AM. Muscle creatine kinase of hUCMSC-microbead-AM at 14 days was twofold that of hUCMSC-AM (p<0.05). In conclusion, hUCMSC encapsulation in novel fast-degradable microbeads inside a hydrogel matrix was investigated for muscle engineering. Compared to the usual method of seeding cells in a hydrogel matrix, hUCMSC-microbead-AM construct had greatly improved cell viability and myogenic differentiation, and hence, is promising to enhance muscle regeneration.

Calcium phosphate cement with biofunctional agents and stem cell seeding for dental and craniofacial bone repair

OBJECTIVE

Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) can be injected to harden in situ and is promising for dental and craniofacial applications. However, human stem cell attachment to CPC is relatively poor. The objectives of this study were to incorporate biofunctional agents into CPC, and to investigate human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUCMSC) seeding on biofunctionalized CPC for osteogenic differentiation for the first time.

METHODS

Five types of biofunctional agents were used: RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) peptides, human fibronectin (Fn), fibronectin-like engineered polymer protein (FEPP), extracellular matrix Geltrex, and human platelet concentrate. Five biofunctionalized CPC scaffolds were fabricated: CPC-RGD, CPC-Fn, CPC-FEPP, CPC-Geltrex, and CPC-Platelets. The hUCMSC attachment, proliferation, osteogenic differentiation and mineral synthesis were measured.

RESULTS

The hUCMSCs on biofunctionalized CPCs had much better cell attachment, proliferation, actin fiber expression, osteogenic differentiation and mineral synthesis, compared to the traditional CPC control. Cell proliferation was increased by an order of magnitude via incorporation of biofunctional agents in CPC (p<0.05). Mineral synthesis on biofunctionalized CPCs was 3-5 folds of those of control (p<0.05). hUCMSCs differentiated with high alkaline phosphatase, Runx2, osteocalcin, and collagen I gene expressions. Mechanical properties of biofunctionalized CPC matched the reported strength and elastic modulus of cancellous bone.

SIGNIFICANCE

A new class of biofunctionalized CPCs was developed, including CPC-RGD, CPC-Fn, CPC-FEPP, CPC-Geltrex, and CPC-Platelets. hUCMSCs on biofunctionalized CPCs had cell density, cell proliferation, actin fiber density, and bone mineralization that were dramatically better than those on traditional CPC. Novel biofunctionalized CPC scaffolds with greatly enhanced human stem cell proliferation and differentiation are promising to facilitate bone regeneration in a wide range of dental, craniofacial and orthopedic applications.

Combinatorial growth of oxide nanoscaffolds and its influence in osteoblast cell adhesion

We report a novel method for high-throughput investigations on cell-material interactions based on metal oxide nanoscaffolds. These scaffolds possess a continuous gradient of various titanium alloys allowing the compositional and morphological variation that could substantially improve the formation of an osseointegrative interface with bone. The model nanoscaffold has been fabricated on commercially pure titanium (cp-Ti) substrate with a compositional gradients of tin (Sn), chromium (Cr), and niobium (Nb) deposited using a combinatorial approach followed by annealing to create native oxide surface. As an invitro test system, the human fetal osteoblastic cell line (hFOB 1.19) has been used. Cell-adhesion of hFOB 1.19 cells and the suitability of these alloys have been evaluated for cell-morphology, cell-number, and protein adsorption. Although, cell-morphology was not affected by surface composition, cell-proliferation rates varied significantly with surface metal oxide composition; with the Sn- and Nb-rich regions showing the highest proliferation rate and the Cr-rich regions presenting the lowest. The results suggest that Sn and Nb rich regions on surface seems to promote hFOB 1.19 cell proliferation and may therefore be considered as implant material candidates that deserve further analysis.

NANOBIOMATERIALS LIBRARY SYNTHESIS FOR HIGH-THROUGHPUT SCREENING USING A DRY POWDER PRINTING METHOD

High-throughput (HT) screening and combinatorial searches for the discovery, development and optimization of functional materials have been widely accepted in many new materials discovery. Dry powder HT library synthesis have advantages such as using same powder materials in lab as in production, and avoiding the use of additives and/or solvents which could be harmful for cells. The VaryDose dry powder dispensing technology was adapted in this work to dispense nanobioceramic powders in quantities as low as 0.1 mg per dispensing. Nanocalcium phosphate biomaterials, including hydroxyapatite (HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), were selected to demonstrate the library fabrication. The dispensing unit design and the effect of the dispensing parameters on dosage control and uniformity are discussed.

Gas-Foamed Scaffold Gradients for Combinatorial Screening in 3D

Current methods for screening cell-material interactions typically utilize a two-dimensional (2D) culture format where cells are cultured on flat surfaces. However, there is a need for combinatorial and high-throughput screening methods to systematically screen cell-biomaterial interactions in three-dimensional (3D) tissue scaffolds for tissue engineering. Previously, we developed a two-syringe pump approach for making 3D scaffold gradients for use in combinatorial screening of salt-leached scaffolds. Herein, we demonstrate that the two-syringe pump approach can also be used to create scaffold gradients using a gas-foaming approach. Macroporous foams prepared by a gas-foaming technique are commonly used for fabrication of tissue engineering scaffolds due to their high interconnectivity and good mechanical properties. Gas-foamed scaffold gradient libraries were fabricated from two biodegradable tyrosine-derived polycarbonates: poly(desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine ethyl ester carbonate) (pDTEc) and poly(desaminotyrosyl-tyrosine octyl ester carbonate) (pDTOc). The composition of the libraries was assessed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and showed that pDTEc/pDTOc gas-foamed scaffold gradients could be repeatably fabricated. Scanning electron microscopy showed that scaffold morphology was similar between the pDTEc-rich ends and the pDTOc-rich ends of the gradient. These results introduce a method for fabricating gas-foamed polymer scaffold gradients that can be used for combinatorial screening of cell-material interactions in 3D.

Endothelial cell responses to micropillar substrates of varying dimensions and stiffness

In the vascular niche, the extracellular matrix (ECM) provides a structural scaffold with a rich ligand landscape of essential matrix proteins that supports the organization and stabilization of endothelial cells (ECs) into functional blood vessels. Many of the physical interactions between ECs and macromolecular components of the ECM occur at both the micron and submicron scale. In addition, the elasticity of the ECM has been shown to be a critical factor in the progress of the angiogenic cascade. Here, we sought to determine the effect of substrate topography and elasticity (stiffness) on EC behavior. Utilizing a unique SiO(2) substrate with an array of micropillars, we first demonstrate that micropillars with heights >3 μm significantly decrease EC adhesion and spreading. Fibronectin (Fn) patterning of 1 μm high micropillars enabled EC adhesion onto the micropillars and promoted alignment in a single-cell chain manner. We then developed a robust method to generate a soft micropillar substrate array made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), similar to the SiO(2) substrate. Finally, we examined the kinetics of EC adhesion and spreading on the soft PDMS substrates compared to the stiff SiO(2) substrates. Culturing cells on the PDMS substrates demonstrated an enhanced EC elongation and alignment when compared to stiff SiO(2) with similar topographical features. We conclude that the elongation and alignment of ECs is coregulated by substrate topography and stiffness and can be harnessed to guide vascular organization.

Microfluidic static droplet arrays with tuneable gradients in material composition

We describe a one-step passive strategy to create concentration gradients in static droplet arrays. The technique exploits controlled exchange of materials between moving plugs and stationary drops. The concentration of soluble reagents can be varied from drop-to-drop in the presence of other soluble reagents or insoluble materials (e.g. cells) at well-defined time points.

High-throughput rheology in a microfluidic device

High-throughput rheological measurements in a microfluidic device are demonstrated. A series of microrheology samples are generated as droplets in an immiscible spacer fluid using a microfluidic T-junction. The compositions of the sample droplets are continuously varied over a wide range. Rheology measurements are made in each droplet using multiple particle tracking microrheology. We review critical design and operating parameters, including the droplet size, flow rates and rapid fabrication methods. Validation experiments are performed by measuring the solution viscosity of glycerine and the biopolymer heparin as a function of concentration. Overall, the combination of microrheology with microfluidics maximizes the number of rheological measurements while simultaneously minimizing the sample preparation time and amount of material, and should be particularly suited to the characterization of scarce or expensive materials.

Rapid, high resolution screening of biomaterial hydrogelators by μ2rheology

A combination of sample manipulation and rheological characterization at the microscale is used to identify the gelation of poly(ethylene glycol)-heparin hydrogels over a wide range of compositions. A microfluidic device produces 50-100 droplet samples, each with a different composition. Multiple particle tracking microrheology is used to measure the rheological state of each sample. This combination requires little material and enables efficient and rapid screening of gelation conditions. The high resolution data identifies the gelation reaction percolation boundaries and a lower limit of the total hydrogelator concentration for gelation to occur, which can be used for the subsequent engineering, testing, and processing of these materials.

Combinatorial screening of osteoblast response to 3D calcium phosphate/poly(ε-caprolactone) scaffolds using gradients and arrays

There is a need for combinatorial and high-throughput methods for screening cell-biomaterial interactions to maximize tissue generation in scaffolds. Current methods employ a flat two-dimensional (2D) format even though three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds are more representative of the tissue environment in vivo and cells are responsive to topographical differences of 2D substrates and 3D scaffolds. Thus, combinatorial libraries of 3D porous scaffolds were developed and used to screen the effect of nano-amorphous calcium phosphate (nACP) particles on osteoblast response. Increasing nACP content in poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds promoted osteoblast adhesion and proliferation. The nACP-containing scaffolds released calcium and phosphate ions which are known to activate osteoblast function. Scaffold libraries were fabricated in two formats, gradients and arrays, and the magnitude of the effect of nACP on osteoblast proliferation was greater for arrays than gradients. The enhanced response in arrays can be explained by differences in cell culture designs, diffusional effects and differences in the ratio of "scaffold mass to culture medium". These results introduce a gradient library approach for screening large pore 3D scaffolds and demonstrate that inclusion of the nACP particles enhances osteoblast proliferation in 3D scaffolds. Further, comparison of gradients and arrays suggests that gradients were more sensitive for detecting effects of scaffold composition on cell adhesion (short time points, 1 day) whereas arrays were more sensitive at detecting effects on cell proliferation (longer time points, 14 day).