Microfluidic-based generation of size-controlled, biofunctionalized synthetic polymer microgels for cell encapsulation

Abstract

Cell and islet microencapsulation in synthetic hydrogels provides an immunoprotective and cell-supportive microenvironment. A microfluidic strategy for the genaration of biofunctionalized, synthetic microgel particles with precise control over particle size and molecular permeability for cell and protein delivery is presented. These engineered capsules support high cell viability and function of encapsulated human stem cells and islets.

Keywords: cell microencapsulation; hydrogels; microfluidics; pancreatic islets; synthetic microgel.