Biomaterial Cues Regulate Epigenetic State and Cell Functions-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials science and epigenetics.
• Cell biology and regenerative medicine.

Background:

• Biomaterial cues significantly regulate the cellular niche and microenvironment.
• Epigenetic regulation is crucial for cell functions like proliferation, differentiation, and reprogramming.
• Biomaterials are known to modulate cellular epigenetic states.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review epigenetic mechanisms by which biomaterial cues influence cell functions.
• To compare and contrast the mechanisms of different biomaterial cues (chemistry, topography, elasticity, mechanical stimulus).
• To establish a mechanogenomic map for advanced biomaterial design in disease treatment and regenerative medicine.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of biomaterial-epigenetic interactions.
• Analysis of how material properties affect nuclear deformation, cell proliferation, differentiation, and reprogramming.
• Synthesis of common and unique properties of various biomaterial cues and their associated epigenetic mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Different biomaterial cues (chemistry, topography, elasticity, mechanical stimulus) uniquely and commonly influence epigenetic regulation of cell functions.
• Identified specific epigenetic pathways modulated by distinct biomaterial properties.
• Established a framework for understanding biomaterial-epigenetic interplay.

Conclusions:

• Biomaterial design can be optimized by understanding their epigenetic impact on cell fate.
• Epigenetic regulation by biomaterials offers novel strategies for disease treatment and regenerative medicine.
• A mechanogenomic map provides insights into designing highly functionalized biomaterials.