2024 April ; 36(14); e2312226 | Nikolas Di Caprio, Matthew D. Davidson, Andrew C. Daly, Jason A. Burdick
The paper introduces a novel approach to tissue engineering using injectable granular composites of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) spheroids and hyaluronic acid (HA) microgels. This method combines the advantages of cell-cell interactions in spheroids and the mechanical support and stability provided by hydrogels. The authors develop granular composites with different spheroid-to-microgel volume ratios to balance mechanical support and tissue growth. They demonstrate that these composites can produce engineered cartilage tissue with extensive matrix deposition and mechanical properties similar to native cartilage. The study highlights the importance of initial spheroid-to-microgel volume ratios in maintaining construct stability and promoting chondrogenesis. The approach shows promise for advancing tissue engineering applications, particularly in cartilage repair and regeneration.The paper introduces a novel approach to tissue engineering using injectable granular composites of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) spheroids and hyaluronic acid (HA) microgels. This method combines the advantages of cell-cell interactions in spheroids and the mechanical support and stability provided by hydrogels. The authors develop granular composites with different spheroid-to-microgel volume ratios to balance mechanical support and tissue growth. They demonstrate that these composites can produce engineered cartilage tissue with extensive matrix deposition and mechanical properties similar to native cartilage. The study highlights the importance of initial spheroid-to-microgel volume ratios in maintaining construct stability and promoting chondrogenesis. The approach shows promise for advancing tissue engineering applications, particularly in cartilage repair and regeneration.