Gelatin Microspheres for Regenerative Micro-Delivery Systems
Gelatin microspheres are tiny biodegradable carriers used to deliver therapeutic molecules in a highly controlled manner. In regenerative medicine, precise delivery of growth factors, cytokines, or drugs is critical for effective healing. Gelatin microspheres provide a stable environment for these molecules and release them slowly as the microspheres degrade.
Their fabrication involves emulsification, crosslinking, and drying processes that allow engineers to tailor particle size, surface properties, and degradation rate. This flexibility makes gelatin microspheres suitable for a wide range of tissues, including bone, cartilage, skin, and muscle.
When incorporated into scaffolds or hydrogels, microspheres act like concentrated reservoirs that stimulate regeneration over time. For example, bone-forming factors can be loaded into microspheres embedded inside collagen scaffolds, providing sustained stimulation for osteoblasts. Similarly, anti-inflammatory microspheres can reduce tissue damage after injury.
Because gelatin is biocompatible and non-toxic, microspheres do not provoke immune reactions. This safety profile makes them ideal for long-term therapeutic strategies. As regenerative medicine advances, gelatin microspheres are expected to play an even greater role in precision healing.