Investigation of the effect of cell-ECM density ratio on chondrogenic differentiation of three-dimensional stem cell cultures

Tissue engineering has been a promising approach to restoring dysfunctional tissues and increasing life expectancy in treating patients experiencing organ or tissue loss or failure. However, the product obtained in tissue engineering is expected to be closest to the natural structure and will provide the highest benefit. Using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in tissue engineering applications is extremely common, and three-dimensional tissue engineering products can be designed by utilizing the chondrogenic differentiation abilities of MSCs. Cell-ECM density differences, which determine the tissue's mechanical properties, are important to design a functional cartilage tissue that can support the existing cartilage tissue. In this study, the effects of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell – ECM density on chondrogenic differentiation investigated in a three-dimensional cell culture medium. Spheroids were prepared at four different concentrations of ĸ-carrageenan and in two different culture mediums (standard and chondrogenic complete culture medium) for the cell-ECM density difference by keeping the cell number constant in the 3D culture medium. Morphological measurements, fusion experiments and histochemical staining of spheroids prepared in both culture media and at four different concentrations for chondrogenic differentiation examined. As a result of the study, it determined that spheroids prepared by the 3D culture method showed chondrogenic differentiation.