New Publication: Screening of MMP-13 Inhibitors Using a GelMA-Alginate Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel-Based Model Mimicking Cytokine-Induced Key Features of Osteoarthritis In Vitro

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We are delighted to announce the publication of our latest research in Polymers, marking a significant milestone for our team. This paper represents the first publication for Alessandra Palladino and a key contribution from Qichan Hu towards her PhD thesis:

Title: Screening of MMP-13 Inhibitors Using a GelMA-Alginate Interpenetrating Network Hydrogel-Based Model Mimicking Cytokine-Induced Key Features of Osteoarthritis In Vitro

Authors: Hu, Q.; Williams, S.L.; Palladino, A.; Ecker, M.

Journal: Polymers 2024, 16, 1572

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16111572

Abstract:

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease characterized by irreversible cartilage degradation. Current clinical treatments lack effective pharmaceutical interventions targeting the root causes of OA. This study explores the use of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors to slow OA progression by addressing cartilage degradation mechanisms.

Our research utilized a GelMA-alginate hydrogel-based 3D in vitro model, which closely mimics the native extracellular matrix (ECM) and the cytokine-induced conditions of OA. This model was used to test MMP-13 inhibitors, as MMP-13 is a major contributor to articular cartilage degradation. The results showed significant inhibition of type II collagen breakdown, demonstrated by measuring C2C concentration using ELISA after treatment with MMP-13 inhibitors. Despite inconsistencies in human cartilage explant samples, our findings highlight the potential of this hydrogel-based model as an alternative to human cartilage explants for in vitro drug screening.

Confirmation of chondrogenesis in GelMA-alginate hydrogel. (a) qRT-PCR analysis of
gene expression of chondrogenic markers. Gene expression is normalized to GAPDH and expressed
relative to the control group (Day 0). Data are presented as mean ± SD with statistical significance
indicated as * p < 0.05 and ** p < 0.01.

Significance:

This research offers a promising platform for preclinical testing of OA treatments, advancing our understanding and development of effective pharmaceutical interventions.

For more information, please read the full paper here.

We are excited to contribute to the field of osteoarthritis research and look forward to future advancements.

Keywords:

Osteoarthritis, MMP-13 Inhibitors, GelMA-Alginate Hydrogel, 3D In Vitro Model, Cytokine-Induced OA Model, Type II Collagen Breakdown, Preclinical Testing.