Cell delivery systems using biomaterials

Biomedical science has made a paradigm shift that comprises the use of human and microbial cells as therapeutic entities. Initially, the term biomaterials was defined as a nonliving substance used in a medical device, such as a joint prosthesis. There are currently three major classes of biomaterials used in cell delivery: protein-based biomaterials, polysaccharide-based biomaterials, and syn-thetic biomaterials. The use of protein-based biomaterials provides a unique and powerful approach to deliver cells. The cell delivery strategy of cell transplantation is critical for the success of cell-based therapy, as the ability of cells to secrete the desired molecules depends on it. Surface modification is an effective approach to improve the transplantation of living cells. One of the most challenging issues in islet transplantation is the early graft loss due to immediate blood-mediated inflammatory reaction (IBMIR). Hydrogels based on both natural and synthetic polymers have been used for the encapsulation of cells.