Injectable micropore-forming microgel scaffold for neural progenitor cells transplantation and vascularization after stroke.

ABSTRACT: Stem cell therapy for stroke is hindered by poor cell survival and integration within the ischemic microenvironment. Injectable microgels have been widely employed in cell delivery for their ability to promote cell infiltration, but dense hydrogel networks often limit cell survival. Here we present an injectable microgel-matrix composite scaffold that combines microporous microgels for neural progenitor cells (NPCs) delivery with interstitial spaces to support vascular growth. Using a gas-shearing fabrication approach, primary rat NPCs are efficiently encapsulated in phase-separated microporous microgel (PSMM), exhibiting superior survival and proliferation. In vitro studies demonstrate that PSMM scaffolds support endothelial cell (EC) sprouting and vascular formation, and in ischemic stro

SUBMITTER: Wu H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12549824 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature