In Vivo Chondrogenesis in 3D Bioprinted Human Cell-laden Hydrogel Constructs
Journal article, 2017

Background: The three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting technology allows creation of 3D constructs in a layer-by-layer fashion utilizing biologically relevant materials such as biopolymers and cells. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of 3D bioprinting in a clinically relevant setting to evaluate the potential of this technique for in vivo chondrogenesis. Methods: Thirty-six nude mice (Balb-C, female) received a 5-x 5-x 1-mm piece of bioprinted cell-laden nanofibrillated cellulose/alginate construct in a subcutaneous pocket. Four groups of printed constructs were used: (1) human (male) nasal chondrocytes (hNCs), (2) human (female) bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs), (3) coculture of hNCs and hBMSCs in a 20/80 ratio, and (4) Cell-free scaffolds (blank). After 14, 30, and 60 days, the scaffolds were harvested for histological, immunohistochemical, and mechanical analysis. Results: The constructs had good mechanical properties and keep their structural integrity after 60 days of implantation. For both the hNC constructs and the cocultured constructs, a gradual increase of glycosaminoglycan production and hNC proliferation was observed. However, the cocultured group showed a more pronounced cell proliferation and enhanced deposition of human collagen II demonstrated by immunohistochemical analysis. Conclusions: In vivo chondrogenesis in a 3D bioprinted human cell-laden hydrogel construct has been demonstrated. The trophic role of the hBMSCs in stimulating hNC proliferation and matrix deposition in the coculture group suggests the potential of 3D bioprinting of human cartilage for future application in reconstructive surgery.

system

proliferation

regeneration

cocultures

mechanisms

articular-cartilage repair

scaffolds

chondrocytes

vitro

mesenchymal stem-cells

Author

Thomas Möller

Chalmers, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Applied Chemistry

Matteo Amoroso

University of Gothenburg

Daniel Hägg

Chalmers, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Applied Chemistry

Camilla Brantsing

Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Nicole Rotter

University Hospital of Ulm

Peter Apelgren

University of Gothenburg

Anders Lindahl

Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Lars Koelby

University of Gothenburg

Paul Gatenholm

Chalmers, Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Applied Chemistry

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Global Open

2169-7574 (eISSN)

Vol. 5 2 Article no e1227 -

Subject Categories

Medical Biotechnology (with a focus on Cell Biology (including Stem Cell Biology), Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry or Biopharmacy)

DOI

10.1097/GOX.0000000000001227

More information

Latest update

6/20/2023