Presentation Title
HUVEC Tubular Formation on Bio-inspired Vascularization Substrate
Abstract
While possessing many desired properties for a biomaterial capable of cell encapsulation, alginate lacks the ability to interact with mammalian cells; however, alginate can be chemically modified with RGD- peptides, which promote cell adhesion, proliferation and ingrowth. Heparin, a glycosaminoglycan naturally found in the body, plays a role in preventing the formation of a thrombosis due to its anticoagulant activity and is a component of the extracellular matrix of blood vessels that has been shown to promote the growth of endothelial cells in vitro. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility heparin and arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD) conjugated alginate hydrogels encapsulated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a wound dressing to promote vascularization. VEGF is an important component in angiogenesis that binds to heparin, and RGD promotes cell adhesion. Alginate hydrogels consisted of methacrylic anhydride (MA), RGD, and heparin, and were crosslinked with visible light. The material properties and burst pressure mechanics were evaluated to determine the structural integrity and adhesiveness of the hydrogels.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Rachael Oldinski
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences
Program/Major
Biomedical Engineering
Primary Research Category
Engineering & Physical Sciences
Secondary Research Category
Biological Sciences
HUVEC Tubular Formation on Bio-inspired Vascularization Substrate
While possessing many desired properties for a biomaterial capable of cell encapsulation, alginate lacks the ability to interact with mammalian cells; however, alginate can be chemically modified with RGD- peptides, which promote cell adhesion, proliferation and ingrowth. Heparin, a glycosaminoglycan naturally found in the body, plays a role in preventing the formation of a thrombosis due to its anticoagulant activity and is a component of the extracellular matrix of blood vessels that has been shown to promote the growth of endothelial cells in vitro. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility heparin and arginyl-glycyl-aspartic acid (RGD) conjugated alginate hydrogels encapsulated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as a wound dressing to promote vascularization. VEGF is an important component in angiogenesis that binds to heparin, and RGD promotes cell adhesion. Alginate hydrogels consisted of methacrylic anhydride (MA), RGD, and heparin, and were crosslinked with visible light. The material properties and burst pressure mechanics were evaluated to determine the structural integrity and adhesiveness of the hydrogels.