Carbon Nanotube-Collagen Scaffolds for Mesenchymal Stem Cells’ Differentiation: Changes in Alkaline Phosphatase Expression, Meneralizaton, and Energy Content

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The applications of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have tremendous potentials for them as substrates of cell cultures, drug delivery systems, and medical implantable materials. We characterized the energy simulations of different CNT-composite materials with the use of reconstituted Type I collagen and several different types of CNTs. MSCs were incorporated at the time of scaffold preparation, creating a living-tissue analog consisting of cells embedded in a collagen–CNT matrix. The cell proliferation, differentiation, mineralization and inflammatory response of MSCs were evaluated in the presence of collagen-CNT matrix. Alkaline phosphatase (AP) and mineralization of extracellular matrix (ECM) were monitored as osteoblastic and osteogenic differentiation markers. AP activity was increased as cells were differentiated. The CNT-Collagen scaffolds showed different but favorable energy conformations suitable as polymeric cages and scaffolds. AP enzyme activity was significantly increased 12 days after replacement with differentiating media in the presence of CNT-Collagen scaffolds. The collagen interaction enhanced AP activity, and CNTs induced further increase in AP activity. An increasing percentage of ECM mineralization was seen at day 16 after replacement with differentiating media in the presence of CNT-Collagen scaffolds. This study showed the possibility of enhancement in MSC differentiation in the presence of CNT-Collagen scaffolds.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2010: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 230 - 233
Industry sector: Medical & Biotech
Topic: Biomaterials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3415-2