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.
Cell Guidance Systems is pleased to announce the availability of primary human hepatocytes for use in in-vitro toxicology assays.
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.
Although there are some challenges associated with using hydrogels for drug delivery systems, there has been considerable progress in recent years.
Before a drug is deemed suitable for patients, it must undergo a rigorous testing process and cost-effectiveness analyses. The testing begins in a lab where researchers investigate the process behind a disease at either cellular or molecular level. In the past, this has been completed using 2D cell culture, which is convenient and accessible, but more often, cells are grown in a complex 3D environment.
Organoids and spheroids are the most commonly used approaches for establishing 3D cell cultures. This article will explore the similarities (and differences) between how they are made and what they do.
Animal derived materials remain an important part of biological research. Progress is being made to replace these with better defined non-animal alternatives. This is a huge task. The goal of developing alternatives to materials such as FBS and Matrigel® remains elusive.
