Abstract

In vitro proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is yet an unresolved challenge. Found in the bone marrow, HSCs can undergo self-renewing cell division and thereby multiply. Recapitulation of the bone marrow environment in order to provide the required signals for their expansion is a promising approach.Here, we describe a technique to produce biofunctionalized, macroporous poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) hydrogels that mimic the spongy 3D architecture of trabecular bones, which host the red, blood-forming bone marrow. After seeding these scaffolds with cells, they can be used as simplified bone marrow analogs for the cultivation of HSCs. This method can easily be conducted with standard laboratory chemicals and equipment. The 3D hydrogels are produced via salt leaching and biofunctionalization of the material is achieved by co-polymerizing the PEGDA with an RGD peptide. Finally, cell seeding and retrieval are described.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.