Electrospinning of microspheres with ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells for vascular regeneration

[Display omitted] •The study developed Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel microspheres using electrostatic spraying and UV crosslinking, which demonstrated uniform size, high porosity, and tunable degradation properties, ideal for vascular tissue engineering.•Key electrospinning parameters were optimized to produce microspheres with a controlled size (∼150 μm) and pore structure (∼50 μm), ensuring efficient cell encapsulation and nutrient exchange.•EMSCs encapsulated in GelMA microspheres effectively differentiated into endothelial cells and promoted neovascularization in vivo, forming dense vascular structures and integrating with host tissues. The goal of vascular tissue engineering (VTE) is to cure various vascular illnesses by utilizing biomaterials, cells, and growth factors to construct functional vascular structures. In this study, we fabricated hydrogel microspheres encapsulating ectodermal mesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs) by electrostatic spraying and assessed their potential for VTE. To achieve homogenous and highly viable hydrogel microspheres with a diameter of about 150 µm, an internal pore size of approximately 50 µm, a porosity of approximately 45 %, and a degradation duration of approximately 28 days, we improved the electrostatic spraying settings. The hydrogel microspheres supported the adhesion, expansion and proliferation of EMSCs. We induced the microspheres to differentiate into endothelial cells and form vascular-like structures in vitro. We also confirmed the microspheres promoted neovascularization and tissue integration, resulting in a high vascular density in vivo. Electrospun GelMA microspheres loaded with EMSCs offer a promising strategy for VTE. By regulating the composition and structure of microspheres, the directional release of EMSCs and cell signal transduction can be realized, and the therapeutic effect and biocompatibility can be improved. In addition, this technology can also avoid ischemia and hypoxia during cell transplantation and improve the survival rate and functional performance of cells. Their unique properties and angiogenic ability make them a valuable addition to the field. Further investigations are needed to optimize their performance and clinical translation.