Abstract
Improving vascularization of tissue-engineered bone can advance cell performance in vivo and further promote bone regeneration. How to achieve a functional vascular network within the construct is one of the biggest challenges so far. We hypothesized that a mixture of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) could endue the alginate microspheres with osteogenic and angiogenic potential. In vitro and in vivo studies were performed to investigate the potential of the PRP-ADSC-laden microspheres. Two intriguing observations were made in this study. First, we demonstrated that PRP sustained cell viability and meanwhile promoted cell migration from the interior of alginate microspheres to the surface. This phenomenon indicated that encapsulated cells have the potential to directly and actively participate into the regeneration process. Second, in vivo, a blood vessel network was found within the 10% PRP and 15% PRP-ADSC implants, which was associated with a significant increase in mineralization. It suggested that the PRP-ADSC-laden microspheres did enhance the vascularization and mineralization. In summary, this strategy not only provides a micro-invasive therapy for bone regeneration, but also could be incorporated with other matrices for extended application.