Effect of Microgroove Depth of a Micro Pattern-Processed Glass Plate on the Tensile Properties of Stem Cell Based Self-Assembled Tissues (scSAT)

Stem cell-based self-assembled tissues (scSAT) have a potential for the repair of damaged ligaments and tendons. Previous studies indicate that the scSAT exhibits anisotropic structure and property when it is cultured on a plate having a microgroove structure. However, the effect of microgroove depth on the tensile properties of the scSAT remains unknown. Therefore, the effect was determined in the present study. Micro pattern-processed glass plates having an array of parallel grooves (width: 100 m, depth: 10 or 30 m) were developed through lithographic and isotropic wet etching. Human synovium-derived mesencymal stem cells were cultured in the DMEM with ascorbic acid 2-phoshate at the density of 6.0 x 105 cells/cm2. The cells and their native extracellular matrix were subsequently detached from the microgrooved plates with 10 m in depth (MG10) and 30 m in depth (MG30). Microscopic observation indicated that no orientation was observed in the control group, while cells and matrix were oriented along the direction of the grooves in the MG groups. The mechanical properties of the scSAT showed that the tensile strength and stiffness were significantly higher in the MG groups than in the control group. Moreover, the tensile strength was significantly higher in the MG 30 group than in the MG10 group. It is suggested that the micro-processed glass plate having the microgroove with 100 m width and 10 or 30 m in depth provides the scSAT with anisotropic structure and properties.