The Role of Biomaterials in Stem Cell-Based Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

Stem cell therapy is a promising alternative approach to the treatment of a number of incurable degenerative diseases. However, low cell retention and survival after transplantation limit the therapeutic efficacy of stem cells for clinical translational applications. The utilization of biomaterials has been progressively successful in controlling the fate of transplanted cells by imitating the cellular microenvironment for optimal tissue repair and regeneration. This review mainly focuses on the engineered microenvironments with synthetic biomaterials in modification of stem cell behaviors. Moreover, the possible advancements in translational therapy by using biomaterials with stem cells are prospected and the challenges of the current restriction in clinical applications are highlighted.

IGF-1C hydrogel improves the therapeutic effects of MSCs on colitis in mice through PGE2-mediated M2 macrophage polarization

“…Stem cell therapy is partially limited by the low rate of cell retention and engraftment after transplantation for IBD 1 . Growth factors, as components of the microenvironment, control stem cell fate by interactions with cells and matrices 15 . Therefore, immobilization of growth factors by binding to the matrix to mimic the stem cell niche can increase stem cell survival 15 .…”

“…Growth factors, as components of the microenvironment, control stem cell fate by interactions with cells and matrices 15 . Therefore, immobilization of growth factors by binding to the matrix to mimic the stem cell niche can increase stem cell survival 15 . Moreover, the expression of immunoregulatory factors varies depending on the microenvironment in which MSCs are exposed 34 .…”

“…Transplantation of MSCs has been considered a good therapeutic for the treatment of several immune disorders, including IBD 13 , 14 . However, the outcome of stem cell therapy depends on the number of surviving cells after transplantation 15 . Poor cell engraftment and retention after transplantation are the main factors limiting current stem cell-based therapy 14 .…”

<p>Delivery of MSCs with a Hybrid β-Sheet Peptide Hydrogel Consisting IGF-1C Domain and D-Form Peptide for Acute Kidney Injury Therapy</p>

“…Growth factors, as indispensable components of the ECM, are the appropriate components for this strategy. 17,48 IGF-1 plays a crucial role in human childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. 17 Substantial advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine indicate the potential of using IGF-1 for wound healing and regeneration.…”

Enhanced therapeutic effects of MSC-derived extracellular vesicles with an injectable collagen matrix for experimental acute kidney injury treatment

“…It has lots of biological activities, not only tissue support, but also an important component of extracellular matrix (ECM). When injected into the body, collagen could provide the niche that mimics the natural ECM to better exert the therapeutic effect [16,17]. Previously, it has been reported that collagen matrix for tendon regeneration has good biocompatibility and mechanical properties, promoting cell adhesion and growth, and thereby behave as an ideal biomaterial for tissue regeneration [18].…”