Advances in Controlling Differentiation of Adult Stem Cells for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration

Abstract

Adult stems cells, possessing the ability to grow, migrate, proliferate, and transdifferentiate into various specific phenotypes, constitute a great asset for peripheral nerve regeneration. Adult stem cells' ability to undergo transdifferentiation is sensitive to various cell-to-cell interactions and external stimuli involving interactions with physical, mechanical, and chemical cues within their microenvironment. Various studies have employed different techniques for transdifferentiating adult stem cells from distinct sources into specific lineages (e.g., glial cells and neurons). These techniques include chemical and/or electrical induction as well as cell-to-cell interactions via co-culture along with the use of various 3D conduit/scaffold designs. Such scaffolds consist of unique materials that possess controllable physical/mechanical properties mimicking cells' natural extracellular matrix. However, current limitations regarding non-scalable transdifferentiation protocols, fate commitment of transdifferentiated stem cells, and conduit/scaffold design have required new strategies for effective stem cells transdifferentiation and implantation. In this progress report, a comprehensive review of recent advances in the transdifferentiation of adult stem cells via different approaches along with multifunctional conduit/scaffolds designs is presented for peripheral nerve regeneration. Potential cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways associated with differentiation are also included. The discussion with current challenges in the field and an outlook toward future research directions is concluded.

Biochemical and structural cues of 3D-printed matrix synergistically direct MSC differentiation for functional sweat gland regeneration

“…Although several studies indicated that engineering 3D microenvironments enabled better control of stem cell fates and effective regeneration of functional tissues (27)(28)(29)(30), there were no studies concerning the establishment of 3D-bioprinted microenvironments that can preferentially induce MSCs differentiating into glandular cells with multiple tissue phenotypes and overall functional tissue. To find an optimal microenvironment for promoting MSC differentiation into specialized progeny, biochemical properties are considered as the first parameter to ensure SG specification.…”

Enhanced electrochemical biosensor and supercapacitor with 3D porous architectured graphene via salt impregnated inkjet maskless lithography

“…[1][2][3] Specifically, electrodes comprising graphene and graphene derivatives (graphene nanoparticles, reduced graphene oxides, oxidized graphene, functionalized graphene) have demonstrated high electrical conductivity and/or catalytic capability. For example, in the past decade graphene has been used for electrode materials in electrochemical devices such as supercapacitors, 4 batteries, 5 fuel cells, 6 cell electrode stimuli 7,8 and sensors. 9,10 Graphene is typically produced by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) which can yield nearly pristine (defect-free) single or few layer 2D sheets.…”

Determination of Electrical Stimuli Parameters To Transdifferentiate Genetically Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Neuronal or Glial Lineages

“…However, there are three main challenges that need to be addressed for the clinical transition of this strategy. These challenges include (1) precise control on the final fate of the implanted cell population during the in vivo regeneration period, (2) non-scalable differentiation protocols, and (3) design of multifunctional conduit with desired properties that mimics the complex extracellular matrix microenvironment [16][17][18][19]. Thus, addressing these challenges makes tMSCbased strategies a viable solution for PN injury repair.…”