Biomaterials Research · 5 authors, 5 centres
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This narrative review summarizes preclinical laboratory studies on how biomechanical stimuli applied to hydrogels containing encapsulated cells, like stem cells, can influence chondrogenesis and cartilage tissue engineering. The central finding is that biomechanical and biochemical signaling are important factors for promoting cartilage regeneration in these systems.
This narrative review synthesizes preclinical literature on the use of biomechanical stimuli for cartilage tissue engineering with cell-encapsulated hydrogels. The review concludes that biomechanical and biochemical signaling are important factors for cartilage regeneration, and that factors like cell source, hydrogel properties, and loading parameters affect cellular responses. A key limitation is that most evidence is from preclinical, in vitro models, with a noted lack of studies attempting to replicate implantable constructs for clinical use. The implications are that biomechanical preconditioning of cell-seeded scaffolds is a promising strategy for future cartilage repair therapies.
