Incorporation of VEGF-and bFGF-loaded alginate oxide particles in acellular collagen-alginate composite hydrogel to promote angiogenesis

Abstract

Background The use of growth factors in tissue engineering is often challenging due to their instability and short half-life. The delivery of growth factors with nanocarriers can eliminate these problems. In the present study, we introduced an alginate oxide particle in acellular collagen-alginate composite hydrogel platform for the immobilization and controlled release of VEGF and bFGF to promote angiogenesis. Methods The particles were prepared by the oxidation of sodium alginate. Then, they were embedded in collagen-alginate hydrogel. Cytocompatibility of the construct with the human umbilical vein endothelial cells was analyzed through a live/dead assay and scanning electron microscopy. In vitro evaluation of VEGF and bFGF Release Kinetics was done. Moreover, the function of the constructs was confirmed through the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Results The engineered constructs maintained the human umbilical vein endothelial cells viability, which indicates the non-toxicity of the tested constructs. The presence of VEGF-loaded particles could improve the Total Branching Points in the chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. In this regard, Total Branching Points was significantly improved in the VEGF group compared to the control group (p = 0.010) and FGF group (p = 0.023). Conclusion The results demonstrated the potential role of these particles in regenerative medicine to improve angiogenesis.