Three-dimensional stromal tissue cultures
First Claim
1. A method for preparing a living stromal tissue in vitro, comprising culturing mesenchymal stem cells inoculated onto a three-dimensional framework in a nutrient medium, so that the mesenchymal stem cells and connective tissue proteins naturally secreted by the mesenchymal stem cells attach to and substantially envelope the framework composed of a biocompatible, non-living material formed into a three dimensional structure having interstitial spaces bridged by the mesenchymal stem cells.
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a method of stimulating the proliferation and appropriate cell maturation of a variety of different cells and tissues in three-dimensional cultures in vitro using TGF-β in the culture medium. In accordance with the invention, stromal cells, including, but not limited to, chondrocytes, chondrocyte-progenitors, fibroblasts, fibroblast-like cells, umbilical cord cells or bone marrow cells from umbilical cord blood are inoculated and grown on a three-dimensional framework in the presence of TGF-β. Stromal cells may also include other cells found in loose connective tissue such as endothelial cells, macrophages/monocytes, adipocytes, pericytes, reticular cells found in bone marrow stroma, etc. The stromal cells and connective tissue proteins naturally secreted by the stromal cells attach to and substantially envelope the framework composed of a biocompatible non-living material formed into a three-dimensional structure having interstitial spaces bridged by the stromal cells. The living stromal tissue so formed provides the support, growth factors, and regulatory factors necessary to sustain long-term active proliferation of cells in culture and/or cultures implanted in vivo. When grown in this three-dimensional system, the proliferating cells mature and segregate properly to form components of adult tissues analogous to counterparts in vivo.
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Citations
20 Claims
- 1. A method for preparing a living stromal tissue in vitro, comprising culturing mesenchymal stem cells inoculated onto a three-dimensional framework in a nutrient medium, so that the mesenchymal stem cells and connective tissue proteins naturally secreted by the mesenchymal stem cells attach to and substantially envelope the framework composed of a biocompatible, non-living material formed into a three dimensional structure having interstitial spaces bridged by the mesenchymal stem cells.
- 11. A living stromal tissue prepared in vitro, comprising mesenchymal stem cells and connective tissue proteins naturally secreted by the mesenchymal stem cells attached to and substantially enveloping a three-dimensional framework composed of a biocompatible, non-living material formed into a three-dimensional structure having interstitial spaces bridged by the mesenchymal stem cells.
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