Synthetic 3D PEG-Anisogel Tailored with Fibronectin Fragments Induce Aligned Nerve Extension.
Publisher DOI
PubMed ID
31614080
Abstract
An enzymatically cross-linked polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel was engineered to promote and align nerve cells in a three-dimensional manner. To render the injectable, otherwise bioinert, PEG-based material supportive for cell growth, its mechanical and biochemical properties were optimized. A recombinant fibronectin fragment (FNIII9*-10/12-14) was coupled to the PEG backbone during gelation to provide cell adhesive and growth factor binding domains in close vicinity. Compared to full-length fibronectin, FNIII9*-10/12-14 supports nerve growth at similar concentrations. In a 3D environment, only the ultrasoft 1 w/v% PEG hydrogels with a storage modulus of ∼10 Pa promoted neuronal growth. This gel was used to establish the first fully synthetic, injectable Anisogel by the addition of magnetically aligned microelements, such as rod-shaped microgels or short fibers. The Anisogel led to linear neurite extension and represents a large step in the direction of clinical translation with the opportunity to treat acute spinal cord injuries.
Date Issued
2019-11-11
Publication Type
Article
Subject(s)
Language(s)
en
Author(s)
Licht, Christopher | |
Rose, Jonas C | |
Anarkoli, Abdolrahman Omidinia | |
Blondel, Delphine | |
Haraszti, Tamás | |
Gehlen, David B | |
Hubbell, Jeffrey A | |
Lutolf, Matthias P | |
De Laporte, Laura |
Additional Credits
Journal
Biomacromolecules
Publisher
American Chemical Society
ISSN
1525-7797
Access(Rights)
open.access