An RGD-restricted substrate interface is sufficient for the adhesion, growth and cartilage forming capacity of human chondrocytes

• DOI: 10.22203/ecm.v020a26
• Publication Date: 2016-12-02T05:37:12Z
• Authors: D Vonwil; M Schuler; A Barbero; S Ströbel; D Wendt; M Textor; U Aebi; I Martin
• Keywords: Chondrogenesis

This study aimed at testing whether an RGD-restricted substrate interface is sufficient for adhesion and growth of human articular chondrocytes (HAC), it enhances their post expansion chondrogenic capacity. HAC/substrate interaction was restricted to RGD by modifying tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) with a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) based copolymer system that renders the surface resistant protein adsorption while same time presenting bioactive RGD-containing peptide GCRGYGRGDSPG (RGD). As compared TCPS, HAC cultured on spread faster (1.9-fold), maintained higher type II collagen mRNA expression (4.9-fold) displayed 19% lower spreading area. On RGD, attachment efficiency (66±10%) proliferation rate (0.56±0.04 doublings/day), as well in subsequent differentiation phase, were similar those cells TCPS. In contrast, cartilaginous matrix deposition expanded slightly but consistently (15% glycosaminoglycan-to-DNA ratio). RDG (bioinactive peptide) PEG (no ligand) controls yielded drastically reduced (lower than 11%) 0.20 doublings/day). Collectively, these data indicate restriction through peptides support adhesion, maintenance cartilage forming The concept could thus be implemented materials repair, whereby situ recruited/infiltrated chondroprogenitor would proliferate maintaining ability differentiate generate tissue.