Often overlooked, matrix stiffness is hugely important to the behaviour of cells. A recent study of prostate cancer cells using gels of varying stiffness reveals mechanistic insights.
Using lasers, hydrogels and sustained release neurotropic growth factors, researchers in Switzerland have developed a sophisticated nerve conduit system to repair non-union nerve damage.
RADA16, the pioneer in the field of self-assembling peptide hydrogels, is inflexible (figuratively at least) and can be difficult to use. PeptiGel is winning out with clever refinement, bespoke formulation and a ready-to-use format.
GFOGER is a collagen sequence that primarily binds to specific integrins which not only anchor cells to the matrix but also influence cell behaviour, such as proliferation, migration, and differentiation.
The RGD peptide is the most widely used in cell culture. RGD is a natural motif that binds to common cell receptors providing binding points to substrates. The origins and the myriad of applications of RGD are discussed.
Collagen can fail to gelate. This may be due to a multiple of factors which are discussed in this article.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, after cardiovascular disease, with over 16.4 million cancer-related deaths predicted by 2040. It is well known for its complex and dynamic nature, which has meant that it is challenging to study with 2D cell culture models, although understanding of the disease has improved.
When discussing 3D Cell Culture, researchers and scientists will talk about collagen, as it is quite popular as a matrix material. Collagen does have limitations as a scaffold though, in a similar way to many other natural scaffold materials, which is one of the reasons why Cell Guidance Systems are offering a fully synthetic alternative – PeptiGels.
3D cell culture has emerged as a pivotal technique for mimicking the natural environment of cells. This method offers a more physiologically relevant context compared to traditional 2D cultures, better enabling the study of cell behavior, drug responses, and disease mechanisms. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of various hydrogels used in 3D cell culture and highlight the unique benefits of using PeptiGel.
To reduce the required frequency of drug administration, technologies have been developed to offer prolonged therapeutic effects, minimizing systemic side effects. These technologies are particularly useful for chronic conditions, localized diseases, and situations where continuous protein delivery is beneficial. Technologies that have been developed for sustained, localized release include:
