The Effect of a Wheat Protein-based Magnesium Silicate Hydrogel Loaded with a Glucosamine Composite on the Regeneration of Cartilage

Abstract

Abstract How to treat cartilage defects effectively in the clinic has become a great challenge. Due to the lack of blood vessels, nerves and the lymphatic system, self-repair of cartilage usually cannot be achieved when damaged. Therefore, identifying a potential therapeutic method for cartilage regeneration is necessary. In the present study, wheat protein (WP)-based hydrogels loaded with magnesium silicate (MS) and glucosamine (GA) were fabricated via the sol-gel method, and the restorative effect of the resulting hydrogel composite (MSWG) on cartilage defects was also evaluated. The mechanical strength, biodegradability and hydrophilicity of MSW have been largely improved. Moreover, the porous structure of MSWG promotes cell adhesion, proliferation and migration. MSWG promotes the expression of genes and proteins related to chondrogenic differentiation in vitro To evaluate the effect of MSWG on cartilage regeneration in vivo, rabbit knee cartilage defects were established in this study, and MSWG composites were implanted into the defects. More cartilage and subchondral bone appeared around the defect in the MSWG group, and the chondrocytes seemed to mature. In conclusion, the addition of GA to MSW improved its physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. The synergistic effect of hydrogel composites has been proven to promote the expression of chondrogenic biomarkers and accelerate the repair of cartilage defects. MSWG hydrogel composites, as potential candidates, are promising for application in cartilage regeneration.