Evaluation of the effect of alginate matrices combination on insulin-secreting MIN-6 cell viability

In the present study, we investigated the effects of different encapsulating systems on cell viability and physiology by using MIN-6 cells, a mouse model of insulin-secreting lineage, encapsulated in bare and functionalized alginate matrices. The systems were composed of alginate (2 wt%) combined with other matrices, namely, agarose, cellulose, chitosan, gelatin, glycine, polyethylene glycol (PEG), silica, and starch. The resulting materials were characterized by zeta potential measurement and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Hydrogel degradation was also evaluated. Viability was assessed by the Trypan blue exclusion technique and insulin secretion capacity. The encapsulated cells exhibited viability rates and biochemical performance that allowed prolonged cell cultures. All of the systems secreted physiological amounts of insulin, but the alginate/gelatin/ PEG system was found to be the best, followed by the alginate/chitosan matrix. The present results allow consideration of the viability and functionality of encapsulated MIN-6 cells in bare alginate and in hybrid alginate-based matrices.

Automated summary

In this study, the effects of different encapsulating systems on cell viability and physiology were investigated using MIN-6 cells. The alginate/gelatin/PEG system and the alginate/chitosan matrix were found to be the most effective encapsulation systems in terms of cell viability and insulin secretion capacity.