ABSTRACT
Introduction
Many chronic diseases have evolved and to circumvent the limitations of using conventional drug therapies, smart cell encapsulating delivery systems have been explored to customize the treatment with alignment to disease longevity. Cell therapeutics has advanced in tandem with improvements in biomaterials that can suitably deliver therapeutic cells to achieve targeted therapy. Among the promising biomacromolecules for cell delivery are those that share bio-relevant architecture with the extracellular matrix and display extraordinary compatibility in the presence of therapeutic cells. Interestingly, many biomacromolecules that fulfil these tenets occur naturally and can form hydrogels.
Areas covered
This review provides a concise incursion into the paradigm shift to cell therapeutics using biomacromolecules. Advances in the design and use of biomacromolecules to assemble smart therapeutic cell carriers is discussed in light of their pivotal role in enhancing cell encapsulation and delivery. In addition, the principles that govern the application of cell therapeutics in diabetes, neuronal disorders, cancers and cardiovascular disease are outlined.
Expert opinion
Cell therapeutics promises to revolutionize the treatment of various secretory cell dysfunctions. Current and future advances in designing functional biomacromolecules will be critical to ensure that optimal delivery of therapeutic cells is achieved with desired biosafety and potency.
Article highlights
Discusses current approaches in the use of biomacromolecules to encapsulate therapeutic cells
Critically evaluates the chemical structure and physicochemical of advanced biomacromolecules having bio-relevant architecture for optimal cell therapeutics
Provides a critical analysis of the various methods and inherent factors of cell encapsulation mechanisms of action and fabrication processes
Assimilates various cell therapeutic approaches for customized treatment duration and system longevity
Outlines key clinical applications of cell therapeutics and future trends for ideal biomacromolecule-based technologies for cell therapeutics
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Acknowledgments
This article is dedicated to Professor Viness Pillay who passed away on the 24 July 2020.
Reviewer disclosures
Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.
Declaration of interest
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.