Abstract
Background: Biocompatible materials-topography could be used for the construction of scaffolds allowing the three-dimensional (3D) organization of human stem cells into functional tissue-like structures with a defined architecture. Methods: Structural characterization of an alumina-based substrate was performed through XRD, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and wettability measurements. Biocompatibility of the substrate was assessed by measuring the proliferation and differentiation of human neural precursor stem cells (NPCs). Results: α-Al2O3 is a ceramic material with crystallite size of 40 nm; its surface consists of aggregates in the range of 8–22 μm which forms a rough surface in the microscale with 1–8 μm cavities. The non-calcined material has a surface area of 5.5 m2/gr and pore size distribution of 20 nm, which is eliminated in the calcined structure. Thus, the pore network on the surface and the body of the ceramic becomes more water proof, as indicated by wettability measurements. The alumina-based substrate supported the proliferation of human NPCs and their differentiation into functional neurons. Conclusions: Our work indicates the potential use of alumina for the construction of 3D engineered biosystems utilizing human neurons. Such systems may be useful for diagnostic purposes, drug testing, or biotechnological applications.
Highlights
The nervous system is characterized by high-complexity and three-dimensional (3D) interconnectivity of its cellular components, i.e., the neurons and non-neuronal glial cells
Biocompatibility of the substrate was assessed by measuring the proliferation and differentiation of human neural precursor stem cells (NPCs)
We show that alumina is biocompatible with human NPCs as it supports their proliferation, differentiation, and survival of functional NPC-derived neurons
Summary
The nervous system is characterized by high-complexity and three-dimensional (3D) interconnectivity of its cellular components, i.e., the neurons and non-neuronal glial cells. The recent advances in induced-pluripotent stem cell technology and the development of the appropriate differentiation protocols allowed the in vitro generation of human neuronal cells which could be used for biotechnological or regenerative therapeutic approaches These cells are predominantly grown in two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures which are easy to use and analyze. 3D foam biomaterials provide efficient cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation due to their unique properties (e.g., high surface-to-volume ratio, 3D porous structure) [9] Such materials may be used for the construction of engineered biosystems modeling brain compartmentalization that would allow real-time analyses of brain function [10]. Biocompatible materials-topography could be used for the construction of scaffolds allowing the three-dimensional (3D) organization of human stem cells into functional tissue-like structures with a defined architecture. Such systems may be useful for diagnostic purposes, drug testing, or biotechnological applications
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