Deconstructing the Effects of Matrix Elasticity and Geometry in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Lineage Commitment

• DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201303400
• Publication Date: 2013-12-23T13:55:38Z
• Authors: Greg M. Harris; Maria E. Piroli; Ehsan Jabbarzadeh
• Keywords: Elasticity; Matrix (chemical analysis)

A wide variety of environmental factors including physical and biochemical signals are responsible for stem cell behavior function. In particular, matrix elasticity shape have been shown to determine function, yet little is known about the interplay between how these cues control differentiation. For first time, by using ultraviolet (UV) lithography pattern poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) hydrogels, it possible manufacture microenvironments capable parsing effects elasticity, shape, size in order explore relationship mesenchymal (MSC) lineage commitment. These data show that cells cultured on 1000 μm 2 circles, squares, rectangles primarily adipogenic regardless while 2500 5000 shapes more heavily depend specification. It further characterized modifying cytoskeleton through pharmacological inhibitors can modify behavior. By showing MSC commitment relationships due signals, this study highlights importance understanding future tissue engineering strategies.