(P 66) Characterization of a Bioactive Scaffold for Cartilage Repair

• Published in: Tissue engineering. Part A 2008-05, Vol.14 (5), p.819-819
• Main Authors: Clausen, C, Everland, H, Osther, K
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1937-3341; 1937-335X

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine the matrix-synthesis, gene-expression and growth characteristics of human articular chondrocytes (hACs) loaded on bioactive MPEG-PLGA (metoxypolyethyleneglycol-block-co-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) scaffolds. A variety of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) were incorporated into the scaffold structure leading to a proposed chondrogenic bioactivity. Methods: hACs (passage 1) were loaded on bioactive MPEG-PLGA scaffolds and after 1, 2, and 4 weeks, RT-PCR, histology and ELISA analyses were performed. Furthermore immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed using monoclonal antibodies against Co12, Ag and Collagen Type 1. hAC monolayer cultures and MPEG-PLGA without GAG incorporation were used as controls. Results: hACs adhered to the scaffold and proliferated at a rate similar to the control cultures. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated an upregulation of the chondrogenic markers, S0X9, Co12 and Ag, compared to control cultures. The presence of Co12 and Ag was further verified on the protein-level by IHC. Toluidine Blue O -and Safranin O staining demonstrated an elevated synthesis of proteoglycans. Discussion: Using the novel scaffold platform, MPEG-PLGA, with a variety of GAGs incorporated, we analyzed the ability of hACs to synthesis a cartilage matrix, by using gene expression analysis, IHC, histology, and ELISA. Significant differences in the analysis results were found, depending on the actual types of incorporated GAG. We conclude that this novel bioactive scaffold is a powerful in vitro environment for culturing hACs for tissue engineering. A goat study is now in progress to study this system under in vivo conditions.