Hydrogels are gel-like materials containing networks of linked polymers swelled with water. Hydrogels that can be used for cell culture come in a huge variety of forms and are used to replicate the function of the extracellular matrix (ECM); the material which surrounds and supports cells in our tissues. This ECM is itself a complex hydrogel.
3D cell culture research these days relies increasingly on self-assembling peptide hydrogels, but what are they and why are they important?
Changes in the composition and components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) can influence cell behaviour. As well as structural proteins, the ECM contains functional proteins which bind to cells and modulate their behaviour. These functional components of hydrogels are critical to consider this when it comes to 3D cell culture.
Scaffolds have an important role to play in tissue engineering, as they are a substrate that can be used to mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM). The properties of scaffolds have also been shown to affect cell behaviour such as cell attachment, differentiation and proliferation.
Xenografts are the transplant of an organ, tissue or cells of another species. Xenografts are a powerful research tool for many diseases, especially cancer. Hydrogels are often mixed with cells to improve their survival and create better xenografts.
Most research still focuses on 2D cell cultures where cells are grown in a flat monolayer on a plate. However, 3D cell culture provides a culture environment that allows cells to grow and interact with the surrounding extracellular matrix in three dimensions. Peptide hydrogels are an ideal matrix choice for 3D cell culture.
The complex structure of articular cartilage and its lack of vasculature present particular challenges for regenerative medicine. A recent study led by researchers at University College London explored the utility of PeptiInk Alpha 1 for printing 3D chondrocyte structures.
Hydrogel matrices, either on their own or combination with implanted cells, are capable of supporting the repair of tissue injuries. A new study from researchers at Manchester University, available as a pre-print, demonstrates the safety and cell-proliferative action of PeptiGel Alpha 2 injected intracerebrally in a rat model of haemorrhagic stroke.
When you think about 3D cell culture, you probably think about Matrigel, after all, it is the current market leader in 3D cell culture. Matrigel does have limitations, however, which is something that Cell Guidance Systems are tackling with a fully synthetic alternative. This blog article will discuss the differences between Matrigel and PeptiGels, fully synthetic (and 100% animal-free) and the benefits you can expect from each.
Hydrogels are being increasingly for a wide range of biomedical applications including cell culture, drug delivery, tissue engineering and wound healing. This research has opened up new opportunities to provide materials that are triggerable and tuneable.
