The Effect of Layer-by-Layer Assembly Coating on the Proliferation and Differentiation of Neural Stem Cells

Nanocoating of a single-cell with biocompatible materials creates a defined microenvironment for cell differentiation and proliferation, as well as a model for studies in cell biology. In addition, the acidic environment in the tissue of stroke victims necessitates drug release upon pH stimuli. Here, we report the encapsulation of single neural stem cells (NSCs) using a layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique with polyelectrolytes gelatin and alginate. Analysis of the NSCs showed that the LbL encapsulation would not affect the viability, proliferation, or differentiation of the cells. When insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) was loaded on the coating material alginate, its release from alginate into the medium presented in a time-dependent and pH-dependent way. IGF-1 significantly enhanced the proliferation of the encapsulated NSCs, demonstrating a drug-carrier function of the LbL single-cell nanocoating. It provided a potential treatment strategy for nervous system disorders such as stroke.