Authors:
Todd C. McDevitt, Richard L. Carpenedo, Ross Marklein, Scott Seaman, and Andrés Bratt-Leal
Summary:
Pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) represent a robust cell source for various regenerative cell therapies, however the inability to efficiently direct differentiation of the cells limits their potential clinical utility. Differentiation of ESCs is commonly induced via 3D cell aggregates referred to as “embryoid bodies” (EBs) which yield a heterogeneous population of different cell types. Incorporation of polymeric microparticles within EBs may enable locally controlled spatiotemporal presentation of morphogenic factors to ESCs in order to better direct differentiation of the cells. Our results demonstrate that microparticle incorporation within EBs can be controlled by different adhesive protein coatings, microparticle to cell feed ratio and dynamic mixing conditions. Using this approach, controlled release of differentiation factors, such as retinoic acid, from PLGA microparticles enhances the efficiency and purity of ESC differentiation, compared to soluble delivery methods. These results indicate that biomaterials based approaches to regulate stem cell microenvironments may improve differentiation methods.
Source:
235th American Chemical Society National Meeting; 1:30 PM (04/09/08)