ABSTRACT
To overcome certain problems encountered in cell therapy, particularly cell survival, lack of cell differentiation and integration in the host tissue, we developed pharmacologically active microcarriers (PAM). These biodegradable particles made with poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and coated with adhesion molecules may serve as a support for cell culture and may be used as cell carriers presenting a controlled delivery of active protein. They can thus support the survival and differentiation of the transported cells as well as their microenvironment. To develop this tool, nerve growth factor (NGF)-releasing PAM, conveying PC12 cells, were produced and characterized. Indeed, these cells have the ability to differentiate into sympathetic-like neurons after adhering to a substrate, in the presence of NGF, and can then release large amounts of dopamine. Certain parameters such as the size of the microcarriers, the conditions enabling the coating of the microparticles and the subsequent adhesion of cells were thus studied to produce optimized PAM.
Subject(s)
Cell Culture Techniques/methods , Cell Transplantation/methods , Drug Carriers/chemistry , Lactic Acid/chemistry , Nerve Growth Factor/administration & dosage , Neurons/cytology , Neurons/physiology , Polyglycolic Acid/chemistry , Polymers/chemistry , Animals , Cell Adhesion/drug effects , Cell Differentiation/drug effects , Cell Differentiation/physiology , Cell Survival/drug effects , Cell Survival/physiology , Coated Materials, Biocompatible/administration & dosage , Coated Materials, Biocompatible/chemistry , Materials Testing , Microspheres , Neurons/drug effects , PC12 Cells , Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer , RatsABSTRACT
The article investigates the role that adolescents' perceptions of the family plays as he/she adapts to living away from home. Family atmosphere perceptions of adolescents who study at a residential school and adolescents who live at home were evaluated. The adaption of these two groups of adolescents, as perceived by their teachers, was also evaluated. Results have shown differential contributions of family dimensions to adolescent adaptation in residential and nonresidential schooling. Results are discussed in connection with the process of adolescent separation from the family and the increased impact of the peer group.
