Hydrogel carrier for stem cells

History

2023: Development Announcement

In mid-February 2023, researchers at Johns Hopkins University announced the creation of an injectable hydrogel carrier for stem cells, which should help treat such a complex complication of Crohn's disease as perianal fistulas.

Perianal fistulas are very difficult to treat as of early 2023, but stem cells have shown promising help in this process. However, it is difficult to ensure that the cells remain in place. This hydrogel delivery vehicle acts as a reliable cell depot when administered near the fistula, keeping the cells alive and in place so that they can positively affect the healing process in the patient. The technology showed its reliability in a rat model of perianal fistulas associated with Crohn's disease.

Principle of operation of hydrogel carrier

Approximately 30-40% of patients with Crohn's disease develop perianal fistulas. They are an inflamed tunnel between the surface of the body and the internal anal opening, which sometimes forms as a result of a perianal abscess. These structures are painful and uncomfortable, can swell and leak blood or pus. Surgery is often required, but more than half of patients see no significant benefit from existing treatments.

The scientists used their gel to deliver adipose-derived stem cells in a rat model of perianal fistulae associated with Crohn's disease. The gel itself contained fragments of nanofibers that are designed to create sufficient mechanical strength to keep the cells in place, regardless of the mechanical deformation of the gel bolus in the tissue. Gel treatment has reduced the size of the fistula stroke by a factor of six compared to surgical treatment, suggesting that the technology has significant potential as a treatment for perianal fistulas.^[1]

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