BIOMIMETIC SELF-ASSEMBLING NANOFIBROUS SCAFFOLD FOR BONE TISSUE REGENERATION

Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the ability of PurmatrixTM to support the cell growth and differentiation in human gingiva derived stem cells (HGMSCs) and umbilical cord derived stem cells (HUMSCs). Background. Therapeutic management of bone loss in the craniofacial region as a consequence of trauma, tumor surgery or congenital malformation presents clinical challenge. Biomaterials play a role in interacting with cells in the formation of tissue. PuraMatrixTM is a commercially available self-assembled synthetic peptide hydrogel. PuraMatrixTM, upon contact with physiological conditions can instantly polymerize forming matrices providing three-dimensional architecture to the cells. The nanofiber structures of these peptides surround the cells and form an extracellular matrix and enable the cells to grow within the gel. Methods. HGMSCs and HUMSCs were isolated and cultured under standard culture conditions. Proliferation of the cells encapsulated in puramatrix scaffold was observed at 1, 3, 5 and 7 days. Osteogenic differentiation was investigated at 1 and 2 weeks. Results. Puramatrix embedded cells were viable during the entire period of study in both cell types. Significant increase in osteogenic marker-alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was observed in cell- gel constructs when compared with monolayer cultures. Notably, cells in puramatrix showed significant upregulation of genes such as collagen type 1, ALP and osteopontin at two weeks of culture period in both cell types. Conclusion. Our in vitro studies demonstrate that Puramatrix in combination with these stem cells have potential to regenerate bone Grants. This research was supported by HPD and PFRDG