An integrated biodegradable, immunoprotective, dual nanoporous capsule for cell-based therapies

In summary, a new biodegradable cell-based device has been developed based on the integration of two techniques: microcapsules and surface coated PCL capsule. Microcapsules provide a 3-D microenvironment for spatial cell growth with good viability and proliferation. Coating biocompatible and hydrophilic PEG gelatin on the PCL surface could mediate the inflammatory response, minimize the fibrosis formation, and maintain the release performance. Our ongoing work is to test AP and PCL nanoporous membrane immunoprotection and controlled release functions for therapeutic cell secreting products. Hopefully, the dual nanoporous construct provides a unique way to allow superior cell growth, immuoprotection, fibrosis prevention and controllable release of secreted product in a biodegradable device.