Growth factors, matrices, and forces combine and control stem cells.
Stem cell fate is influenced by a number of factors and interactions that require robust control for safe and effective regeneration of functional tissue. Coordinated interactions with soluble factors, other cells, and extracellular matrices define a local biochemical and mechanical niche with complex and dynamic regulation that stem cells sense. Decellularized tissue matrices and synthetic polymer niches are being used in the clinic, and they are also beginning to clarify fundamental aspects of how stem cells contribute to homeostasis and repair, for example, at sites of fibrosis. Multifaceted technologies are increasingly required to produce and interrogate cells ex vivo, to build predictive models, and, ultimately, to enhance stem cell integration in vivo for therapeutic benefit.
Discher
Dennis E
DE
Biophysical Engineering and Nanobiopolymers Laboratory, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. discher@seas.upenn.edu
Mooney
David J
DJ
Zandstra
Peter W
PW
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D002470:Cell Survival; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000502:physiology*; D005355:Fibrosis; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000494:pharmacology; D055153:Stem Cell Niche / Q000502:physiology*; D033581:Stem Cell Transplantation; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology*
D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins