A novel hydrogel-collagen composite improves functionality of an injectable extracellular matrix

Immunoprotection and Functional Improvement of Allogeneic Islets in Diabetic Mice, Using a Stable Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase Producing Scaffold

“…19,20 The immunostaining confirmed IDO expression in fibroblasts within the matrix while majority of fibroblasts remained viable. 9,10 We found that the alloantigen specific proliferation of splenocytes was remarkably suppressed in the presence of Lenti-IDO fibroblast-mediated environment; this effect was partially restored by the addition of 1-MT, an IDO inhibitor, indicating that the observed suppressive effect was due to IDO activity.…”

“…7 However, the FPCM was prone to gradual biodegradation and contraction, negatively affecting the long-term survival and function of the islets. 9 Recently, we developed a novel bioengineered, cross-linked collagen-glycosaminoglycan matrix (CCM). 9,10 When populated by fibroblasts (FP-CCM), it provided enhanced mechanical strength and reduced contraction both in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model of syngeneic ICT.…”

“…9 Recently, we developed a novel bioengineered, cross-linked collagen-glycosaminoglycan matrix (CCM). 9,10 When populated by fibroblasts (FP-CCM), it provided enhanced mechanical strength and reduced contraction both in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model of syngeneic ICT. 10 Despite their value in preventing islet allorejection, immunosuppressants can directly contribute to β-cell toxicity.…”

Leveraging “Raw Materials” as Building Blocks and Bioactive Signals in Regenerative Medicine

“…Collagen type I scaffold formulations have included sponges, [25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33] fibers, 19,34,35 hydrogels, [36][37][38][39][40][41][42][43] and microspheres. 44 51 To address limitations associated with collagen, researchers have often chosen to use different crosslinking agents and/or composites of collagen with other materials.…”

“…For example, scaffolds of type I collagen and chondroitin-6-sulfate, termed in the literature more generally as collagen-GAG or CG scaffolds, represent a common raw material blend for bone, 46 cartilage, 53,54 tendon, 47 and skin 38,55,56 tissue engineering. One particularly innovative raw material technique used a CG core-shell fabrication strategy to enhance mechanical integrity while maintaining a highly porous structure.…”