Enhanced tissue production through redox control in stem cell-laden hydrogels.

Cellular bioenergetics and redox (reduction-oxidation) play an important role in cell proliferation and differentiation, key aspects of building new tissues. In the present study, we examined the metabolic characteristics of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) during proliferation and differentiation in both monolayer and three-dimensional biomaterial scaffolds. In monolayer, hASCs exhibited higher glycolysis and lower ox-phos as compared to both adipogenic and osteogenic differentiated cells, and hASCs demonstrated the Warburg effect (aerobic glycolysis).

PEG hydrogel degradation and the role of the surrounding tissue environment.

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels are extensively used in a variety of biomedical applications, due to ease of synthesis and tissue-like properties. Recently there have been varied reports regarding PEG hydrogel's degradation kinetics and in vivo host response. In particular, these studies suggest that the surrounding tissue environment could play a critical role in defining the inflammatory response and degradation kinetics of PEG implants.

Validation of a small animal model for soft tissue filler characterization.

Background: Rigorous preclinical testing of soft tissue fillers has been lacking. No animal model has emerged as an accepted standard to evaluate tissue filler longevity.

Objective: To validate a small animal model to compare soft tissue filler degradation and tissue reaction.

Photoactivated composite biomaterial for soft tissue restoration in rodents and in humans.

Soft tissue reconstruction often requires multiple surgical procedures that can result in scars and disfiguration. Facial soft tissue reconstruction represents a clinical challenge because even subtle deformities can severely affect an individual's social and psychological function. We therefore developed a biosynthetic soft tissue replacement composed of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and hyaluronic acid (HA) that can be injected and photocrosslinked in situ with transdermal light exposure.