Application of encapsulation technology in stem cell therapy.

Stem cells are characterized by their capacity for self-renewal and their ability to differentiate into specific cell types under the influence of their microenvironment. These cells are potent therapeutic tools to treat various regenerative diseases based on their ability to produce a therapeutic protein or restore natural tissue function with minimal side effects. However, a major problem that must be overcome is to find a suitable stem cell delivery system. Cell encapsulation is a novel concept in which cells are immobilized inside a biocompatible and semi-permeable natural or synthetic matrix. The purpose of encapsulation is to protect the cell from the host's immune system, improve cell expansion and maintain cell viability, self-renewal potency and direct cell differentiation toward a desired lineage. This review will provide an overview of the application of encapsulation technology for phenotypic and functional improvement of stem cells and using these encapsulated cells to treat various diseases.