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Spatially controlled stem cell differentiation via morphogen gradients: A comparison of static and dynamic
Kiara W Cui1, Leeya Engel1, Carolyn E Dundes2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305.
Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. A, Vacuum, Surfaces, and Films : an Official Journal of the American Vacuum Society
|April 8, 2020
Summary
Researchers developed two microfluidic methods to create controlled morphogen gradients for human pluripotent stem cells. This technique successfully patterned stem cells into primitive streak cells, advancing tissue engineering.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Bioengineering
Background:
- Embryonic development relies on morphogen gradients to pattern tissues.
- Replicating these gradients in vitro is crucial for tissue engineering.
- Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) offer a model for studying differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop microfluidic strategies for creating controlled extracellular signal gradients.
- To expose hPSCs to these gradients for directed differentiation.
- To analyze the spatial and temporal dynamics of differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two microfluidic platforms (one commercial, one fabricated) for static and dynamic culture.
- Computationally modeled morphogen distribution within the platforms.
- Exposed hPSCs to differentiation-inducing signals and monitored primitive streak formation using fluorescent reporters and live-cell imaging.
Main Results:
- Achieved precise control over extracellular signal distribution while maintaining hPSC viability.
- Demonstrated regionalized differentiation of hPSCs into primitive streak cells within the gradient.
- Characterized the spatial and temporal dynamics of primitive streak differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Microfluidic platforms provide a powerful tool for generating controlled morphogen gradients.
- These methods enable precise patterning of stem cells in vitro.
- This approach holds promise for advancing the engineering of complex tissuelike constructs.
