The co-culture of two different types of stem cells is quite complex with ambiguous microenvironmental conditions and cell signaling. The objective of this proposal is to investigate the potential of a novel hydrogel scaffold to enhance vascularization, proliferation, and differentiation of co-cultured endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vitro. The scaffold comprises a biocompatible gelatin-hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel base, incorporated with electrospun polylactic acid (PLA) fibers to generate a piezoelectric property, and gold quantum dots (AuQDs) for intensification the electrical conductivity and piezoelectric function eventually. The co-culture approach utilizes MSCs to support EPC survival and enhance vascularization, addressing the inherent sensitivity of EPCs.
The piezoelectric property of the PLA fibers, coupled with the electrical conductivity of AuQDs, creates a biomimetic electrically conductive microenvironment. The generated electrical signals are hypothesized to stimulate EPC proliferation and differentiation, leading to improved vascular network formation. This innovative biomaterial platform aims to facilitate the formation of functional vascular networks, promoting tissue regeneration and ultimately advancing therapeutic strategies in regenerative medicine.
