Neo-cartilage formation using human nondegenerate versus osteoarthritic chondrocyte-derived cartilage organoids in a viscoelastic hydrogel

Kleuskens MWA, Crispim JF, et al.

Journal of Orthopaedic Research

Eindhoven University of Technology, Máxima Medical Center, Fontys University of Applied Sciences

RESEARCH SUMMARY

This study compared cartilage organoid formation using osteoarthritic and healthy chondrocytes in alginate hydrogels supplemented with notochordal matrix. Both cell types formed viable, collagen II-rich tissue with stiffness increasing 5–33× over 28 days, supporting OA-derived chondrocytes for regenerative cartilage therapy.

Mechanical testing was performed using a CellScale MicroTester G2 with a 1 mm spheroid indenter under submerged PBS conditions. The MTG2 quantified up to 33-fold stiffness increase between Day 1 and Day 28, validating tissue maturation and extracellular matrix development.

AUTHORS

Meike W. A. Kleuskens; João F. Crispim; Marina van Doeselaar; Corrinus C. van Donkelaar; Rob P. A. Janssen; Keita Ito.

PUBLICATION DETAILS

JOURNAL

Journal of Orthopaedic Research

YEAR

2023

INSTITUTIONS

Eindhoven University of Technology, Máxima Medical Center, Fontys University of Applied Sciences

COUNTRIES

Netherlands

INSTRUMENT USED

MicroTester

TESTING METHODS

Compression TestingHydrated and Temperature Controlled TestingIndentation TestingMicro-Mechanical Testing

RESEARCH APPLICATIONS

Cartilage and Meniscus MechanicsCell Laden HydrogelsHydrogel Mechanical TestingInjectable & Regenerative BiomaterialsOrganoid and Tissue Mimetic Systems

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