Optimized Hyaluronic Acid–Hydrogel Design and Culture Conditions for Preservation of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Properties

A novel approach that preserved most mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) characteristics was developed using MSC encapsulation in a hydrogel based on hyaluronic acid (HA). An optimized HA–hydrogel composition, whose characteristics were assessed by scanning electron microscopy and viscoelastic property analyses, as well as the more favorable MSC seeding density, was established. These optimal three-dimensional MSC culture conditions allowed morphological cell remodeling, maintained the expression of stem cell markers over 28 days of culture, and preserved MSC differentiation plasticity. In addition, MSCs in HA–hydrogel submitted for 7 days to mechanical constraint that aimed at mimicking in vivo cardiac beat displayed enhanced cell survival by more than 40% compared to static culture conditions. Thus, the optimized HA-based hydrogel provides a niche for MSCs, which preserves their properties and opens ways for cell therapy, in particular in aortic repair medicine.