Human gingival mesenchymal stem cells and self-assembling peptide PuraMatrix(TM) scaffold for bone formation

A thesis submitted to the College of Dental Medicine of Nova Southeastern University of the degree of Master of Science in Dentistry. Purpose: Among various craniofacial defects, cleft palate is the most common congenital birth defect. Reconstruction of bony parts in the hard palate is important to preserve normal craniofacial growth. Autologous bone grafting is associated with donor site morbidity, extensive healing time, and scar formation. Tissue engineering techniques remain a viable option for the repair and reconstruction of bone. In this study, human gingiva-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HGMSCs) were used in combination with a self-assembled injectable hydrogel scaffold PuraMatrixTM for their ability to regenerate bone. The ability of bone formation of the cell-gel combination was assessed in rat ectopic bone formation system. Methods: HGMSCs were cultured under standard culture conditions. Cells obtained from 3rd passage were encapsulated in 0.5% PuraMatrixTM gel. The cell proliferation was monitored at day 1, 3, 5, and 7 using Live/Dead cell assay. Osteogenesis was determined by assessing matrix mineralization at 4 weeks. The cell-gel constructs were implanted in subcutaneous pockets of 4-week-old Sprague Dawley rats. The bone formation was followed at 2 and 4 weeks using histological and computed tomography scans. Results: Cells encapsulated in PuraMatrixTM were viable and cell growth was observed from day 3. Matrix mineralization was observed at 4 weeks in cell-gel inserts. The bone formation was observed after 4 weeks of implantation. Conclusion: The self-assembled injectable PuraMatrixTM scaffold in combination with HGMSCs can support bone tissue growth in 4 weeks