project focuses on development of novel cell-based scaffolds for bone and cartilage repair in patients with poor regenerative capacity. The potential for self-healing is decreasing with age (Meradziak et al, 2016; Liu et al, 2017; Bruna et al, 2016) – the stem cell numbers are declined and proliferation capacity of cells is decreasing upon ageing. The decrease of regenerative potential of endogenous cells – chondrocytes, bone derived mesenchymal stem cells and adipose tissue derived stem cells is limiting success of both cell based and cell-free regeneration strategies. iP-OSTEO project delivers solution by employing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a solution for this problem. iPSCs are derived from terminally differentiated patient cells and re-programmed to pluripotent cells, which could be differentiated to range of cell types including osteogenic and chondrogenic lineage. iP-OSTEO will focus on development of isolation and differentiation strategies for cells (BIONEER). We will develop materials for in vitro and in situ differentiation of iPSCs to osteogenic and chondrogenic lineage (BIONEER, Pharmacoidea).
The materials will be based on hydrogels and electrospun fibrous scaffolds. Electrospinning a technology enabling formation of biomimetic scaffolds with high porosity. In the project we will employ advanced electrospinning techniques such as core/shell electrospinning, 3D nanofibrous scaffolds, organic/inorganic fiber composites and composites with other biomaterials – such as hydrogels (Rhein Waal, IFTR PAS, UCL). The scaffolds will be further functionalized by biomolecules by layer-by-layer deposition system (Surflay) by ECM proteins (i.e. collagen, laminin, and chondroitin sulphate), pro-osteogenic proteins (delivered by Orthosera) or nanoparticles (i.e. hydroxyapatite). The system for scaffold production will be up-scaled and reproducible pilot line will be developed (InoCure). Mechanical properties of scaffolds will be simulated by SZECH.