Injectable Peptide Hydrogel Encapsulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improved Viability, Stemness, Anti-Inflammatory Effects, and Early Stage Wound Healing.

Human-adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs) are adult stem cells and are relatively easy to access compared to other sources of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). They have shown immunomodulation properties as well as effects in improving tissue regeneration. To better stimulate and preserve the therapeutic properties of hADMSCs, biomaterials for cell delivery have been studied extensively. To date, hyaluronic acid (HA)-based materials have been most widely adopted by researchers around the world. PGmatrix is a new peptide-based hydrogel that has shown superior functional properties in 3D cell cultures. Here, we reported the in vitro and in vivo functional effects of PGmatrix on hADMSCs in comparison with HA and HA-based Hystem hydrogels. Our results showed that PGmatrix was far superior in maintaining hADMSC viability during prolonged incubation and stimulated expression of SSEA4 (stage-specific embryonic antigen-4) in hADMSCs. hADMSCs encapsulated in PGmatrix secreted more immune-responsive proteins than those in HA or Hystem, though similar VEGF-A and TGFß1 release levels were observed in all three hydrogels. In vivo studies revealed that hADMSCs encapsulated with PGmatrix showed improved skin wound healing in diabetic-induced mice at an early stage, suggesting possible anti-inflammatory effects, though similar re-epithelialization and collagen density were observed among PGmatrix and HA or Hystem hydrogels by day 21.

Complications and Comorbidities in Foals Undergoing Surgical Repair for Uroperitoneum.

Surgical repair is frequently effective at resolving uroperitoneum in foals, though complications occur. Despite their occurrence, management strategies used to address these complications, and their impact on survival are not clearly defined. To better describe the complications following surgical correction of uroperitoneum and to document treatment strategies and outcomes after intervention, a multi-center retrospective case series was performed. Medical record data of foals undergoing surgical treatment for uroperitoneum were retrieved from three surgical centers, and cases identified with complications or comorbidities were reviewed. Long-term follow-up was obtained through owner contact. Of 45 foals with uroperitoneum, 13 (29%) had complications or comorbidities following surgical repair. Uroperitoneum recurred in 9 (20%) foals 12-264 hours after surgery. Foals with recurrence were managed medically with an indwelling urinary catheter, repeat celiotomy, or were euthanized. Other comorbidities following repair included sepsis and persistent azotemia. One horse developed cystic calculi 14 months later. Urinary catheters maintained for 3-7 days in combination with medical and surgical interventions successfully resolved uroperitoneum. The decision to debride bladder tear edges or the selection of suture material or pattern did not impact recurrence or survival. Six (67%) foals with recurrent uroperitoneum survived to hospital discharge; 86% survived if treatment was attempted. Four (80%) of cases treated for recurrent uroperitoneum were alive without active medical problems >2 years later. Despite recurrence, medical or surgical treatment of recurrent uroperitoneum enables short-term survival, and maintenance of long-term health. Indwelling urinary catheters should be considered in select cases with recurrent uroperitoneum.