Significance
Combinatorial tissue engineering strategies for the central nervous system are scarce. We developed and characterized a novel injectable non-toxic stem cell and protein delivery system providing regenerative cues for central nervous system disorders. BDNF, a neurotrophic factor with a wide-range effect, was nanoprecipitated to maintain its structure and released in a sustained manner from novel polymeric microcarriers. The combinatorial 3D support, provided by fibronectin-microcarriers and the hydrogel, to the mesenchymal stem cells guided the cells towards a neuronal differentiation and enhanced their tissue repair properties by promoting growth factors and cytokine secretion. The long-term release of physiological doses of bioactive BDNF, combined to the enhanced secretion of tissue repair factors from the stem cells, constitute a promising therapeutic approach.
Statement of significance
Combinatorial tissue engineering strategies for the central nervous system are scarce. We developed and characterized a novel injectable non-toxic stem cell and protein delivery system providing regenerative cues for central nervous system disorders. BDNF, a neurotrophic factor with a wide-range effect, was nanoprecipitated to maintain its structure and released in a sustained manner from novel polymeric microcarriers. The combinatorial 3D support, provided by fibronectin-microcarriers and the hydrogel, to the mesenchymal stem cells guided the cells towards a neuronal differentiation and enhanced their tissue repair properties by promoting growth factors and cytokine secretion. The long-term release of physiological doses of bioactive BDNF, combined to the enhanced secretion of tissue repair factors from the stem cells, constitute a promising therapeutic approach.