In vitro analog of human bone marrow from 3D scaffolds with biomimetic inverted colloidal crystal geometry

Biomaterials. 2009 Feb;30(6):1071-9. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2008.10.041. Epub 2008 Nov 29.

Abstract

In vitro replicas of bone marrow can potentially provide a continuous source of blood cells for transplantation and serve as a laboratory model to examine human immune system dysfunctions and drug toxicology. Here we report the development of an in vitro artificial bone marrow based on a 3D scaffold with inverted colloidal crystal (ICC) geometry mimicking the structural topology of actual bone marrow matrix. To facilitate adhesion of cells, scaffolds were coated with a layer of transparent nanocomposite. After seeding with hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), ICC scaffolds were capable of supporting expansion of CD34+ HSCs with B-lymphocyte differentiation. Three-dimensional organization was shown to be critical for production of B cells and antigen-specific antibodies. Functionality of bone marrow constructs was confirmed by implantation of matrices containing human CD34+ cells onto the backs of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice with subsequent generation of human immune cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / cytology
  • Biomimetic Materials*
  • Bone Marrow / anatomy & histology*
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Line
  • Colloids
  • Crystallization
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Mice, SCID
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Stem Cells / cytology
  • Tissue Engineering / methods*
  • Tissue Scaffolds*

Substances

  • Colloids