Biomaterials for clinical therapy utilizing cells differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells

Tissue progenitor cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) with and without usage of biomaterials are promising drugs for treating damaged tissue and organs in patients. Universal or hypoimmunogenic hPSC-derived progenitor cells with and without biomaterials could avoid immune rejection and the need for immunosuppressive drugs. The types of cell assembly that are optimal for the transplantation of hPSC-differentiated cells include (i) cell suspensions, (ii) cell sheets, (iii) cells on porous membranes or scaffolds, (iv) cells entrapped in porous material packages, and (v) cells with injectable hydrogels. Biomaterials such as scaffolds, porous or nonporous biomaterial sheets, and injectable hydrogels (a) support and prolong cell viability at the transplanted site in patients, (b) prevent cell migration from injured sites, and (c) support easy transplantation into patients. Biomaterials can also be used as packaging for hPSC-derived cells, helping them avoid contact with immune cells and promoting the permeation of oxygen, nutrients, and trophic factors. Biomaterials should be prepared from natural polymers and polymerized without heavy metal catalysts. Combining hPSC-derived cells with specific forms of biomaterials will enhance the biocompatibility, polarized cell morphology, and therapeutic effects of the cells after they are transplanted into patients’ lesion sites.