Reconstructing the Differentiation Niche of Embryonic Stem Cells Using Biomaterials

Abstract

The biochemical cues and topographical architecture of the extracellular environment extensively influence ES cell fate. The microenvironment surrounding the developing embryo presents these instructive cues in a complex and interactive manner in order to guide cell fate decisions. Current stem cell research aims to reconstruct this multifaceted embryonic niche to recapitulate development in vitro. This review focuses on 2D and 3D differentiation niches created from natural and synthetic biomaterials to guide the differentiation of ES cells toward specific lineages. Biomaterials engineered to present specific physical constraints are also reviewed for their role in differentiation.

Unhealthy Stem Cells: When Health Conditions Upset Stem Cell Properties

“…ESCs have garnered much attention as a source of cells for regenerative therapies due to their almost indefinite self-renewal capacity in culture and their robust differentiation into all cell types. Nonetheless, to maintain karyotypically stable ESC cultures, it is necessary to grow them on embryonic fibroblasts or some other extracellular microenvironment [50], demonstrating their niche requirement in vitro .…”

Reprogramming and Carcinogenesis—Parallels and Distinctions

“…Biomaterials based on components of the ECM may direct differentiation of pluripotent stem cells towards different lineages (Table V) (Dickinson et al, 2011). Besides serving as structural support, the ECM provides biochemical and mechanical signals to the cells, mainly mediated by integrins, which helps control cell fate (Eshghi and Schaffer, 2008 (Wary et al, 1996).…”

Nanodentistry: Combining Nanostructured Materials and Stem Cells for Dental Tissue Regeneration

“…ECM provides nanoscale structures, such as the 15-300 nm in diameter collagen fibrils that allow cell adhesion (via integrins) and immobilization of signaling molecules, thus influencing the fate and behavior (i.e., proliferation, migration and differentiation) of stem cells [107]. The concentration, size, spacing, surface chemistry and shape (e.g., ridges, grooves, pores and pits) of the artificial nanostructures (e.g., nanotubes and nanolines) are important parameters for the development of cell adhesion sites that monitor stem cell behavior [108][109][110]. For example, it has been shown that surface irregularity (e.g., nanoline grating) and diverse surface chemistries (e.g., silica and poly[methyl methacrylate]) are capable of enhancing adhesion, alignment, growth and differentiation of stem cells [108,109].…”