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Abstract
Objective: In a recent study, we developed a new microencapsulating method for β-cell microencapsulation, but cell viability declined rapidly, post microencapsulation, due to potential polymer-polyelectrolyte chelation and non-porous microcapsules’ membranes resulting in cell apoptosis. Thus, this study tested the effects of incorporating cationic polyamine at 1% w/v, on microcapsule strength and cell viability, in the absence or presence of an anionic tertiary bile acid (ATBA) with potential cell-protective effects.
Methods: 1% w/v polyamine was used without or with ATBA, to form β-cell microcapsules and physical and biological analyses was carried out 50 h post microencapsulation.
Results: Microcapsules containing 1% w/v polyamine showed weak physical properties and low cell viability and ATBA incorporation resulted in >30% reduction in cell viability and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusion: Neither 1% w/v polyamine nor the presence of ATBA resulted in optimised cell viability, but rather reduced cell viability, enhanced inflammation and lowered insulin secretion.
Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the following:
The ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology (UWA) for support, training and access to equipment.
The generous donation of NIT-1 cells from Professor Grant Morahan (UWA).
Disclosure statement
The authors report that they have no conflicts of interest.
Funding
Australian Postgraduate Award and Curtin Research Scholarship.
The use of laboratory equipment, scientific and technical assistance of the Curtin University Microscopy and Microanalysis Facility, which has been partially funded by the University, State and Commonwealth Governments.