Many severe cases of peripheral nerve injuries require surgery, which can cause other complications. Schwann cells play a vital role in nerve repair in the PNS. By improving cell viability and proliferation of Schwann cells, nerve repair will be promoted.
Human mesenchymal stem cells are used in cell therapy and regenerative medicine. hMSC production can experience challenges, as often it takes a significant amount of time for sufficient cell growth. Layer-by-layer provides a promising approach for enhancing the proliferation rate of hMSC cells, thereby reducing the time before harvesting.
Layers were formed on a 96-well culture plate using the layer-by-layer technique. A solution of 1 mg/ml Polyethylenimine was used first to ensure proper coating. This was then followed by alternating 1 mg/ml solutions of heparin and then collagen. Multiple collagen solutions were prepared and tested to examine how samples affect results. These two solutions were alternated for a total of 6 bilayers. Two plates were prepared: one being monitored on day 3, while the other was observed on day 6. The plates were monitored under a microscope to observe changes in cell behavior and growth. Proliferation was evaluated through a PrestoBlue viability assay on each plate’s predetermined date. Results from a PrestoBlue viability assay demonstrated promising increased cell viability for both Schwann and hMSC cells, with Schwann cells showing the best results.
This study shows the versatility of layer-by-layer in nerve regeneration and hMSC production. This will lay the groundwork for future development in regenerative methods and cell-based therapeutics.
Support for this research was provided by URA.