Abstract
Microbial transglutaminase (mTG) was used as a crosslinking agent in the preparation of gelatin sponges. The physical properties of the materials were evaluated by measuring their material porosity, water absorption, and elastic modulus. The stability of the sponges were assessed via hydrolysis and enzymolysis. To study the material degradation in vivo, subcutaneous implantations of sponges were performed on rats for 1–3 months, and the implanted sponges were analyzed. To evaluate the cell compatibility of the mTG crosslinked gelatin sponges (mTG sponges), adipose-derived stromal stem cells were cultured and inoculated into the scaffold. Cell proliferation and viability were measured using alamarBlue assay and LIVE/DEAD fluorescence staining, respectively. Cell adhesion on the sponges was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results show that mTG sponges have uniform pore size, high porosity and water absorption, and good mechanical properties. In subcutaneous implantation, the material was partially degraded in the first month and completely absorbed in the third month. Cell experiments showed evident cell proliferation and high viability. Results also showed that the cells grew vigorously and adhered tightly to the sponge. In conclusion, mTG sponge has good biocompatibility and can be used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Highlights
Tissue engineering aims to repair and reconstruct damaged tissues and organs
How to cite this article Long et al (2017), Preparation and characteristics of gelatin sponges crosslinked by microbial transglutaminase
After crosslinking by Microbial transglutaminase (mTG), the gelatin hydrogel showed a milky white color. It can maintain a gel state either at 25 ◦C or at 37 ◦C (Figs. 1E and 1F, respectively). Both the crosslinked and un-crosslinked hydrogels can be freeze dried into white porous sponges (Figs. 1C and 1G, respectively)
Summary
Tissue engineering aims to repair and reconstruct damaged tissues and organs. Biological scaffolds designed for tissue engineering provide mechanical support for cell growth and provide a micro environment that can regulate cell behavior and tissue regeneration. One of the challenges in scaffold design is in ensuring good mechanical structure and properties, rich active groups, as well as excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. The design of biomaterials should mimic the physical characteristics and biological attributes of natural extracellular matrix (ECM) as much. ECM is a secretory product of cells, which can form highly ordered insoluble aggregates that combine with cells to form various tissues and organs. Collagen is the major structural protein of ECM In vivo, they can self-assemble to form collagen fibers of highly ordered three-helix structure with high mechanical strength
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: 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.
