PEG-4MAL hydrogels for human organoid generation, culture, and in vivo delivery

Nat Protoc. 2018 Sep;13(9):2102-2119. doi: 10.1038/s41596-018-0036-3.

Abstract

In vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived organoids (HOs) facilitates the production of multicellular three-dimensional structures analogous to native human tissues. Most current methods for the generation of HOs rely on Matrigel, a poorly defined basement membrane derivative secreted by Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm mouse sarcoma cells, limiting the potential use of HOs for regenerative medicine applications. Here, we describe a protocol for the synthesis of a fully defined, synthetic hydrogel that supports the generation and culture of HOs. Modular, cell-encapsulating hydrogels are formed from a four-armed poly(ethylene glycol) macromer that has maleimide groups at each terminus (PEG-4MAL) and is conjugated to cysteine-containing adhesive peptides and cross-linked via protease-degradable peptides. The protocol also includes guidelines for the localized in vivo delivery of PEG-4MAL hydrogel-encapsulated HOs to injured mouse colon. The PEG-4MAL hydrogel supports the engraftment of the HOs and accelerates colonic wound repair. This culture and delivery strategy can thus be used to develop HO-based therapies to treat injury and disease. Hydrogel and tissue preparation and subsequent encapsulation can be performed within 2.5-3.5 h. Once HOs have been cultured in synthetic hydrogels for at least 14 d, they can be prepared and delivered to the mouse colon in under 5 h.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Colon / surgery
  • Humans
  • Hydrogels / chemical synthesis*
  • Mice
  • Models, Animal
  • Organ Transplantation
  • Organoids / growth & development*
  • Pluripotent Stem Cells / physiology*
  • Tissue Culture Techniques / methods*

Substances

  • Hydrogels