eCM (Eur Cell Mater / e Cells & Materials) eCM Open Access Scientific Journal
 ISSN:1473-2262         NLM:100973416 (link)         DOI:10.22203/eCM

2013   Volume No 26 – pages 49-65

Title: 3D scaffolds co-seeded with human endothelial progenitor and mesenchymal stem cells: Evidence of prevascularisation within 7 days

Author: F Duttenhoefer, R Lara de Freitas, T Meury, M Loibl, LM Benneker, M Herrmann, RG Richards, M Alini, S Verrier

Address: AO Research Institute, Clavadelerstrasse 8, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland

E-mail: sophie.verrier at aofoundation.org

Key Words: Mesenchymal stem cells; endothelial progenitor cells; bone; neovascularisation; 3D; co-cultures; autologous; platelet lysates.

Publication date: August 29th 2013

Abstract: Blood supply is a critical issue in most tissue engineering approaches for large defect healing. As vessel ingrowth from surrounding tissues is proven to be insufficient, current strategies are focusing on the neo-vascularisation process.
In the present study, we developed an in vitro pre-vascularised construct using 3D polyurethane (PU) scaffolds, based on the association of human Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPC, CD34+ and CD133+) with human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC). We showed the formation of luminal tubular structures in the co-seeded scaffolds as early as day 7 in culture. These tubular structures were proven positive for endothelial markers von Willebrand Factor and PECAM-1. Of special significance in our constructs is the presence of CD146-positive cells, as a part of the neovasculature scaffolding. These cells, coming from the mesenchymal stem cells population (MSC or EPC-depleted MSC), also expressed other markers of pericyte cells (NG2 and αSMA) that are known to play a pivotal function in the stabilisation of newly formed pre-vascular networks. In parallel, in co-cultures, osteogenic differentiation of MSCs occurred earlier when compared to MSCs monocultures, suggesting the close cooperation between the two cell populations. The presence of angiogenic factors (from autologous platelet lysates) in association with osteogenic factors seems to be crucial for both cell populations' cooperation. These results are promising for future clinical applications, as all components (cells, growth factors) can be prepared in an autologous way.

Article download: Pages 49-65 (PDF file)
DOI: 10.22203/eCM.v026a04