Summary
A cell culture medium to control mineralization of extracellular matrix (hydrogels) in 2D and 3D cell cultures in regeneration studies. It allows the organic scaffold or matrix to mineralize over a set period of time in the presence of cells resulting in a structure that is similar to natural mineralized tissue.
Technology Overview
Bones consist of a mineralized organic matrix of collagen and other proteins and an inorganic matrix of hydroxyapatite crystals providing a 3-dimensional scaffold. Bone mineralization is a well-regulated process whereby calcium and phosphorus are deposited by bone cells onto this matrix. Current strategies to engineer bone rely on the use of simple synthetic ceramic materials or soft hydrogel scaffolds, or combinations thereof in the form of composite materials; but both grossly fail to replicate the highly intricate structure, composition and mechanics of native bone. To date, no strategy has been able to replicate such a complex 3D cell-laden and mineralized micro-environment.
The current technology is an optimized system in which cells are cultured in a calcium and phosphorus rich solution. Mineralization is controlled by a key polymeric agent to prevent uncontrolled crystallization of CaP mineral phases, cell death, and allows for different scaffold materials to be crystallized on demand (in the presence of cells), hence replicating the complex mineralization profile of bone in situ.
Licensing Opportunity
This technology is available for licensing and/or co-development.