Fig. 3.

An injectable hydrogel designed for tissue regeneration involves isolating cells from a small biopsy, culturing them in vitro, and encapsulating them in hydrogel precursors. These precursors are then injected into the patient through a needle. The hydrogel provides initial structural support, retaining cells within the damaged tissue area, which aids in metabolism, cell proliferation, and the synthesis of new ECM. As the cells secrete ECM, the hydrogel gradually degrades. This approach allows minimally invasive transplantation of the combination of cells, growth factors, and hydrogel [50]. Copyright 2010. Adapted from MDPI.