Biocompatibility of Blastema Cells Derived from Rabbit’s Pinna on Chitosan/Gelatin Micro-Nanofiber Scaffolds

Abstract

Background: Stem cell-based tissue engineering approaches have opened a new perspective in clinical practice. Site-specific migration of stem cells is one of the main challenges in stem cell therapy. Researchers have focused on the development of scaffolds mimicking the extracellular matrix of animal tissues for guided implantation of stem cells. Enhanced cellular viability using scaffolds is a continuous quest in stem cell-based tissue engineering. Objectives: The current study aimed to investigate the viability and migration of blastema stem cells (BSCs) cultured on the micro-nanofiber chitosan/gelatin scaffold (CGS). Methods: A force-spinning device was used to prepare the CGS. This scaffold was then inserted into the blastema loop of rabbit’s pinna under anesthesia. The loop and scaffold were removed on the 6th, 9th, and 15th days post-scaffold implantation, followed by fixing and preparing for histological examination. Thin and semi-thin sections were taken off and the morphology of blastema stem cells on scaffolds was examined using light and electron microscopy. Results: The results of the histological examination showed that the adhesion, migration, division, and survival of BSCs on CGS were progressively increased. Conclusions: According to the obtained results, CGS could provide a suitable viable environment for inducing changes in cell behavior and morphology. Comprehensive molecular characterization and genomics analysis would help identify the exact mechanisms and pathways involved in cell viability and interaction with the scaffold.