title: Physical developmental cues for the maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes.
abstract: Human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hPSC-CMs) are the most promising source of cardiomyocytes (CMs) for experimental and clinical applications, but their use is largely limited by a structurally and functionally immature phenotype that most closely resembles embryonic or fetal heart cells. The application of physical stimuli to influence hPSC-CMs through mechanical and bioelectrical transduction offers a powerful strategy for promoting more developmentally mature CMs. Here we summarize the major events associated with in vivo heart maturation and structural development. We then review the developmental state of in vitro derived hPSC-CMs, while focusing on physical (electrical and mechanical) stimuli and contributory (metabolic and hypertrophic) factors that are actively involved in structural and functional adaptations of hPSC-CMs. Finally, we highlight areas for possible future investigation that should provide a better understanding of how physical stimuli may promote in vitro development and lead to mechanistic insights. Advances in the use of physical stimuli to promote developmental maturation will be required to overcome current limitations and significantly advance research of hPSC-CMs for cardiac disease modeling, in vitro drug screening, cardiotoxicity analysis and therapeutic applications.
authors: Renjun
authors: R
authors: Zhu
authors: Adriana
authors: A
authors: Blazeski
authors: Ellen
authors: E
authors: Poon
authors: Kevin D
authors: KD
authors: Costa
authors: Leslie
authors: L
authors: Tung
authors: Kenneth R
authors: KR
authors: Boheler
mesh_terms: D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D032383:Myocytes, Cardiac / Q000166:cytology*; D039904:Pluripotent Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*