Microfluidic Encapsulation of Human Bone Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (hBMSCs) in Microgels for Cartilage Regeneration

Articular cartilage degeneration causes severe pain and disability. There is always a need to develop new strategies for cartilage repair. Cell-laden microgels hold promise in cartilage tissue engineering since they can deliver mesenchymal stromal cells and biologics into the cartilage defect sites by injection to repair degenerated tissue. This thesis developed an optimised microgel system (sizes and structures) with great features to support cell development and provide structural support during and post-implantation to achieve functional cartilage formation. The project outcomes provide significant insights to support a minimally invasive treatment strategy and improve future clinical cartilage tissue engineering.