title: Three-dimensional growth matrix for human embryonic stem cell-derived neuronal cells.
abstract: The future of tissue engineering applications for neuronal cells will require a supportive 3D matrix. This particular matrix should be soft, elastic and supportive for cell growth. In this study, we characterized the suitability of a 3D synthetic hydrogel matrix, PuraMatrix™, as a growth platform for human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived neural cells. The viability of the cells grown on top of, inside and under the hydrogel was monitored. The maturation and electrical activity of the neuronal networks inside the hydrogel were further characterized. We showed that cells stayed viable on the top of the PuraMatrix™ surface and growth of the neural cells and neural processes was good. Further, hESC-derived neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes all grew, matured and migrated when cultured inside the hydrogel. Importantly, neuronal cells were able to form electrically active connections that were verified using microelectrode array. Thus, PuraMatrix is a good supportive growth matrix for human neural cells and may serve as a matrix for neuronal scaffolds in neural tissue engineering.
authors.affiliation: NeuroGroup, Institute of Biomedical Technology, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland; BioMediTech, Tampere, Finland; The Science Center of Pirkanmaa Hospital District, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland.
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Ylä-Outinen
authors.forename: Tiina
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Joki
authors.forename: Mari
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Varjola
authors.forename: Heli
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Skottman
authors.forename: Susanna
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Narkilahti
mesh_terms: D018929:Cell Culture Techniques; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D002470:Cell Survival; D004566:Electrodes; D004594:Electrophysiology; D053595:Embryonic Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D006801:Humans; D020100:Hydrogels / Q000737:chemistry; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal; D009474:Neurons / Q000166:cytology*; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods; D054457:Tissue Scaffolds
chemical_list: D020100:Hydrogels