Alginate Encapsulation to Ensure Greater Cell Survival Following Transplantation

In this study, scientists delivered the new algae-based capsules containing macrophages to areas of injured muscle tissue in the back legs of mice. Alginate from the cell walls of brown algae, which is mainly found in cold waters in the Northern Hemisphere, was used to form the capsules. They found that these macrophages successfully remained in the injured area, new blood vessels formed, and as a result more blood reached the damaged area. Currently, to treat CLI and restore blood flow in the limbs, the blocked section of the artery has to be either bypassed during surgery or widened using a small piece of expandable mesh called a stent. However, in up to a third of patients, these methods will eventually fail or are not possible to begin with and amputation is the only option. The researchers therefore hope that this new way of delivering cells could be the key to creating an effective treatment for people suffering with CLI. Link: https://www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/news-from-the-bhf/news-archive/2019/march/algae-could-prevent-limb-amputation
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs