Revolution in tissue engineering: New findings from Mainz for healing!

Revolution in tissue engineering: New findings from Mainz for healing!

A research team led by Prof. Dr. Shikha Dhiman from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz has investigated ways to improve biomaterials for tissue engineering. The focus was on binding model cell membranes to biomaterials in order to advance the cultivation of skin and organs with stem cells. A key challenge in this field has been that stem cells did not always adhere to host materials as expected, compromising the efficiency of tissue engineering. However, the team's current findings could lead to significant progress. University of Mainz reports, that the binding interaction between stem cells and biomaterials depends not only on the strength of the interaction but also on the speed of the molecules.

These results were published in the renowned scientific journal PNAS. The study results show that the assumption that strong ligand binding alone is sufficient was inadequate. When investigating the bond between gel fibers and cell membranes, Dhiman and Prof. Dr. Bert Meijer found that similar movement rates of ligands and receptors significantly promote binding. Even weak bonds can lead to significant interactions at comparable speeds, which could expand the possibilities of tissue engineering.

The role of biomaterials

The goal of tissue engineering is to repair and regenerate damaged tissue, which is particularly facilitated by the use of new biomaterials. These materials that interact with biological systems can be of natural or synthetic origin. Important properties of biomaterials include biocompatibility, sterilizability, biodegradability and bioactivity. PMC reports that natural polymers such as chitosan, gelatin and collagen are often preferred due to their higher biocompatibility and lower toxicity.

Plant-based biomaterials are also gaining importance as alternatives to animal-based materials, particularly due to ethical and environmental concerns. Alginate, a natural polysaccharide from brown algae, is characterized by its ability to form hydrogels through ionic cross-linking with Ca2+. It promotes wound healing and is used in various applications such as hydrogels and membranes.

Modern technologies in tissue engineering

Innovative technologies such as 3D and 4D printing are revolutionizing tissue engineering and significantly expanding the possibilities. 3D printing enables the creation of patient-specific implants, while 4D printing creates dynamic structures that respond to external stimuli. These techniques are particularly relevant in the treatment of diseases such as COVID-19, where mesenchymal stem cells are used to repair damaged lung tissue.

Current advances in the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering show promising prospects for the future of regenerative medicine and medical implants. University of Mainz highlights that these developments could have significant implications for immunotherapies and targeted drug delivery, which would further improve the overall medical treatment options.