A paper-based scaffold for enhanced osteogenic differentiation of equine adipose-derived stem cells

Objectives: We investigated the applicability of single layer paper-based scaffolds for the three-dimensional (3D) growth and osteogenic differentiation of equine adipose-derived stem cells (EADSC), with comparison against conventional two-dimensional (2D) culture on polystyrene tissue culture vessels. Results: Viable culture of EADSC was achieved using paper-based scaffolds, with EADSC grown and differentiated in 3D culture retaining high cell viability (>94 %), similarly to EADSC in 2D culture. Osteogenic differentiation of EADSC was significantly enhanced in 3D culture, with Alizarin Red S staining and quantification demonstrating increased mineralisation (p < 0.0001), and an associated increase in expression of the osteogenic-specific markers alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.0001), osteopontin (p < 0.0001), and runx2 (p < 0.01). Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed a spherical morphology of EADSC in 3D culture, compared to a flat morphology of EADSC in 2D culture. Conclusions: Single layer paper-based scaffolds provide an enhanced environment for the in vitro 3D growth and osteogenic differentiation of EADSC, with high cell viability, and a spherical morphology.