Injectable laminin-biofunctionalized gellan gum hydrogels loaded with myoblasts for skeletal muscle regeneration

We developed an injectable gellan gum-based hydrogel for delivering C2C12 into localized myopathic model. The gellan gum was biofunctinalized with laminin-derived peptide to mimic the native muscular ECM. In addition, hydrogel was physically tuned to mimic the mechanical properties of native tissue. To the best of our knowledge, this formula was used for the first time under the context of skeletal muscle tissue regeneration. The injectability of the developed hydrogel provided non-invasive administration method, combined with a reliable microenvironment that can host C2C12 with nominal inflammation, indicated by the survival and adhesion of encapsulated cells post-injection. The treatment of skeletal muscle defect with the cell-laden hydrogel approach significantly enhanced the regeneration of localized muscular trauma.Statement of significanceWe developed an injectable gellan gum-based hydrogel for delivering C2C12 into localized myopathic model. The gellan gum was biofunctinalized with laminin-derived peptide to mimic the native muscular ECM. In addition, hydrogel was physically tuned to mimic the mechanical properties of native tissue. To the best of our knowledge, this formula was used for the first time under the context of skeletal muscle tissue regeneration. The injectability of the developed hydrogel provided non-invasive administration method, combined with a reliable microenvironment that can host C2C12 with nominal inflammation, indicated by the survival and adhesion of encapsulated cells post-injection. The treatment of skeletal muscle defect with the cell-laden hydrogel approach significantly enhanced the regeneration of localized muscular trauma.

Automated summary

We developed an injectable gellan gum-based hydrogel that delivers C2C12 into a localized myopathic model. The gellan gum was biofunctionalized with a laminin-derived peptide to mimic the natural muscular extracellular matrix. Furthermore, the hydrogel was physically adjusted to replicate the mechanical properties of native tissue. This formula was utilized for the first time in the field of skeletal muscle tissue regeneration. The injectability of the hydrogel allowed for non-invasive administration, creating a reliable microenvironment that supported C2C12 with minimal inflammation. The treatment of skeletal muscle defects with the cell-laden hydrogel significantly enhanced regeneration of localized muscular trauma.