Effects of electric fields on the modulation of chondrocytes dynamics in gelatin scaffolds: a novel approach to optimize cartilage tissue engineering.

Abstract

The treatment of degenerative pathologies affecting articular cartilage remains a significant clinical challenge. Non-invasive biophysical stimuli, such as electric fields, have demonstrated potential as therapeutic tools for cartilage tissue restoration. Previous studies have reported that electric fields enhance chondrocyte proliferation and the synthesis of key extracellular matrix components, such as glycosaminoglycans. However, inconsistencies in experimental designs have led to variable findings. This study examines the effects of capacitively coupled electric fields on chondrocytes cultured in gelatin hydrogels. Alternating voltages of 50 V (7.7 mV/cm) and 100 V (8.7 mV/cm) at a frequency of 60 kHz were applied for 21 days. Cell quantification and glycosaminoglycan analysis were performed on both stimulated and control samples. On day 7, exposure to the electric field resulted in a significant reduction in cell proliferation by 24.7% and 39.2% at 7.7 mV/cm and 8.7 mV/cm, respectively (p < 0.05). However, stimulation at 8.7 mV/cm led to a 35.7% increase in glycosaminoglycan synthesis compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These findings indicate that electric field stimulation can modulate the synthesis of essential extracellular matrix components, such as glycosaminoglycans, in hyaline cartilage. This highlights the potential of electric fields as a promising strategy to enhance outcomes in articular cartilage tissue engineering, particularly in hydrogel-based therapeutic approaches.