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Hydrogel Viscoelasticity Modulates Cell Nascent Extracellular Matrix Deposition
Matthew L Tan1, Avinava Roy1,2,3, Eleanor M Plaster4
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Macromolecular Rapid Communications
|August 14, 2025
Summary
This study shows that high-viscosity hydrogels increase nascent extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition by cells, influencing cell-environment interactions. This finding offers new insights into how cells remodel their microenvironment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Polymeric hydrogels mimic native tissue extracellular matrix (ECM) mechanical properties.
- Cells remodel their microenvironment by depositing nascent ECM, which influences mechanical signaling.
- Understanding nascent ECM's role in cell response to time-dependent mechanics is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how hydrogel viscosity affects nascent ECM deposition and remodeling.
- To explore the relationship between hydrogel mechanics and cell function.
- To develop an interpenetrating polymer network for independent control of hydrogel properties.
Main Methods:
- Developed an interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel system.
- Independently controlled viscous and elastic properties of hydrogels.
- Cultured cells on hydrogels with varying viscosity and measured ECM deposition and remodeling.
Main Results:
- Cells on high-viscosity hydrogels deposited more nascent ECM.
- Increased nascent ECM deposition correlated with enhanced hydrogel remodeling.
- Nascent ECM deposition on high-viscosity hydrogels was independent of intracellular contractility.
Conclusions:
- Hydrogel viscosity directly influences nascent ECM deposition by cells.
- Nascent ECM remodeling is linked to hydrogel viscosity, impacting cell-hydrogel interactions.
- Findings provide insights into cell mechanobiology and biomaterial design.
