Conclusion
The GelMA-SN-SDF-1α hydrogel provides a simple and convenient strategy for the fabrication of injectable osteogenic graft materials.
Methods
Gelatin-methacryloyl (GelMA) pre-polymer was synthetized. Nano silicate (SN) and stromal cell-derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1α) were introduced into the pre-polymer to achieve injectability, controlled release property, excellent osteogenic ability, and efficient stem cell homing.
Purpose
Autologous bone grafts are the gold standard for treating bone defects. However, limited bone supply and morbidity at the donor site restrict its extensive use. Therefore, developing bone graft materials as an alternative to autologous grafts has gained considerable attention. Injectable hydrogels endowed with osteogenic potential have the ability to fill irregular bone defects using minimally invasive procedures and have thus been attracting researchers' attention. However, from a clinical perspective, most fabrication
Results
The GelMA-SN-SDF-1α demonstrated excellent injectability via a 17-G needle at room temperature. The loaded SDF-1α exhibited a long-term controlled release pattern and efficiently stimulated MSC migration and homing. The GelMA-SN-SDF-1α hydrogel amplified cell spreading, migration, osteogenic-related biomarker expression, and matrix mineralization. The GelMA-SN-SDF-1α hydrogel filled critical-sized calvaria defects in rats and demonstrated excellent bone regeneration ability, as assessed using micro-CT scanning and histomorphometric staining.