Bioengineering a multicomponent spinal motion segment construct--a 3D model for complex tissue engineering.
Intervertebral disc degeneration is an important clinical problem but existing treatments have significant drawbacks. The ability to bioengineer the entire spinal motion segment (SMS) offers hope for better motion preservation strategies but is extremely challenging. Here, fabrication of a multicomponent SMS construct with complex hierarchical organization from mesenchymal stem cells and collagen-based biomaterials, using a module-based integrative approach, is reported. The construct consists of two osteochondral subunits, a nucleus pulposus (NP-)-like core and a multi-lamellae annulus fibrosus (AF-)-like component. Chondrogenic medium is crucial for stabilizing the osteochondral subunits, which are shown to allow passive nutrient diffusion, while cyclic compression is necessary for better fiber matrix organization. Cells adhere, survive, and interact with the NP-like core. Cyclic torsional loading stimulates cell alignment in the AF-like lamellae and the number of lamellae affects the mechanical properties of the construct. This work represents an important milestone in SMS tissue engineering and provides a 3D model for studying tissue maturation and functional remodeling.
Tissue Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
Tsz Kit
TK
Chik
Wai Hon
WH
Chooi
Yuk Yin
YY
Li
Fu Chak
FC
Ho
Hiu Wa
HW
Cheng
Tsz Hang
TH
Choy
Kam Yim
KY
Sze
Keith Kei Dip
KK
Luk
Kenneth Man Chi
KM
Cheung
Barbara Pui
BP
Chan
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002470:Cell Survival; D003094:Collagen / Q000737:chemistry*; D020007:Implants, Experimental; D055959:Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / Q000601:surgery; D059630:Mesenchymal Stem Cells / Q000378:metabolism*; D011817:Rabbits; D013131:Spine; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods*
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D003094:Collagen
collagen; complex tissue engineering; mesenchymal stem cell; microencapsulation; spinal motion segment