Revisiting matrix hydrogel composed of gelatin and hyaluronic acid and its application in cartilage regeneration

by Selleckchem | Nov 25 2023

With the increasing incidence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), the reparation of cartilage defects is gaining more attention. Given that tissue integration plays a critical role in repairing cartilage defects, tissue adhesive hydrogels are highly needed in clinics. We constructed a biomacromolecule-based bioadhesive matrix hydrogel and applied it to promote cartilage regeneration. The hydrogel was composed of methacrylate gelatin and N-(2-aminoethyl)-4-(4-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methoxy-5-nitroso) butyl amide modified hyaluronic acid (HANB). The methacrylate gelatin provided a stable hydrogel network as a scaffold, and the HANB served as a tissue-adhesive agent and could be favorable for the chondrogenesis of stem cells. Additionally, the chemically modified HA increased the swelling ratio and compressive modulus of the hydrogels. The results of our in vitro study revealed that the hydrogel was compatible with bone marrow stromal cells. In vivo, the hyaluronic-acid-containing hydrogels were found to promote articular cartilage regeneration in the defect site. Therefore, this biomaterial provides promising potential for cartilage repair.

Comments:

Your research findings highlight the significance of developing innovative approaches for cartilage repair, especially in the context of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The use of tissue adhesive hydrogels, specifically the biomacromolecule-based bioadhesive matrix hydrogel you constructed, appears to be a promising solution for promoting cartilage regeneration.

The composition of the hydrogel, incorporating methacrylate gelatin and modified hyaluronic acid (HANB), addresses multiple aspects crucial for cartilage repair. The methacrylate gelatin acts as a stable scaffold, providing the necessary support for tissue regeneration. On the other hand, the modified hyaluronic acid serves a dual purpose. First, it acts as a tissue-adhesive agent, aiding in the integration of the hydrogel with the surrounding tissue. Second, it promotes the chondrogenesis of stem cells, which is fundamental for the formation of functional cartilage tissue.

Furthermore, the chemical modification of hyaluronic acid has enhanced the properties of the hydrogel. By increasing the swelling ratio and compressive modulus, the hydrogel likely possesses improved mechanical properties, making it more suitable for cartilage repair applications.

The in vitro compatibility of the hydrogel with bone marrow stromal cells suggests that the biomaterial supports cell viability and growth, indicating its potential for in vivo applications. The positive outcomes observed in the in vivo study, where hyaluronic-acid-containing hydrogels promoted articular cartilage regeneration in the defect site, further validate the efficacy of your developed biomaterial.

In summary, your research demonstrates a significant advancement in the field of cartilage repair. The biomacromolecule-based bioadhesive matrix hydrogel, with its unique composition and properties, holds promising potential for clinical applications in cartilage regeneration, especially in the context of knee osteoarthritis. This innovative approach could potentially improve the quality of life for patients suffering from KOA and other cartilage-related disorders.