Date of Award
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Chemistry
Committee Chair
Bernhard Vogler
Committee Member
Anuradha Subramanian
Committee Member
Carmen Scholz
Research Advisor
Anuradha Subramanian
Subject(s)
Synovial membranes, Macrophages, Colloids
Abstract
This study explores macrophage cell function in healthy and diseased tissue that alters the synovial membrane housing fibroblasts and macrophages by examining how substrate stiffness impacts macrophage function. Current research suggests macrophages adapt, becoming more inflammatory in this environment. Divalent ions (CaCl2 or SrCl2) are used to adjust alginate hydrogel stiffness. The monocyte cell line THP-1 is transformed into macrophages through PMA, LPS, and IFNγ treatment within hydrogels, then cultured for 12 days. Divalent ions affect macrophage functionality; Sr2+ crosslinked hydrogels show higher viability, as well as an increased expression of M1 markers CD197 and IL1β, while M2 marker expression stays consistent for both ions. Ca2+ crosslinked hydrogels show higher secretion of MCP-1, IL1β, and TNFα, and persist longer compared to Sr2+ crosslinked hydrogels. Despite lower cytokine expression in Sr2+ crosslinked hydrogels, their viability and gene expression surpass Ca2+ crosslinked hydrogels. This suggests Sr2+ hydrogels promote M1 macrophages more effectively.
Recommended Citation
Newchurch, Aaron, "Impact of the substrate stiffness on macrophage function" (2024). Theses. 668.
https://louis.uah.edu/uah-theses/668