Equine articular chondrocytes on MACT scaffolds for cartilage defect treatment.

This study investigates the use of scaffold materials in horse cartilage regeneration and confirms their suitablility for equine chondrocyte cultivation, as they tend to form multilayers on the surfaces of the scaffolds and are capable of movement and adaptation within large gaps.

Research Aim and Design

This research was devised to assess the potential of applying scaffold materials typically utilized in human cartilage regeneration to equine chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are the cells found in healthy cartilage and are critical in its regeneration and repair.

• Chondrocytes harvested from the talocrural (ankle) joint of three horses were propagated in a 2D culture grown on two different scaffold materials: hyaluronan (HYAFF®) and collagen (BioGide®).

Observations and Findings

• Both types of scaffolds supported the development of equine chondrocytes. The cells were not only vital but also highly physiologically active.
• On the surface of the scaffolds, chondrocytes formed cell multilayers, demonstrating their propensity for creating a dense population or ‘network’ on both types of scaffolds.
• In the hyaluronan web, the cells were distributed evenly and managed to span the large gaps between scaffold fibres by creating their own matrix sheath, indicating their ability to adapt and function in variable spaces and environments.
• Depressions in the cell membrane were observed, likely associated with the movement of cells on the flexible matrix sheath, showing that chondrocytes can change their physical attributes as needed.
• Single cells were found inside the dense collagen scaffold, and they moved through the scaffold fibers by adapting their shape, demonstrating even further the adaptability and resilience of these cells.

Conclusion

• The study concludes that the scaffold materials used, collagen and hyaluronan, are suitable for equine chondrocyte cultivation.
• Chondrocytes can form multilayers on both very dense and very porous scaffolds showing their capacity for terrain adaptability and exploitation of space.
• The cells also have strategies to span and move in large gaps, further endorsing their use in scaffolds as a potential treatment method for cartilage defects.