Return to search

Fabrication of Micropatterns for the Spatial Control of Cell Propagation and DIfferentiation

Challenges in the development of successful cell therapies involve engineering and control of cues to regulate the balance between differentiation and self-renewal. However, the complexity of architecture and function make this an intriguing problem in the context of forming functional connections. Here we present the design and fabrication of microstructured scaffolds that present a biomimetic framework along which neural cell lines can organize into oriented constructs. Specifically, we show microfabricated non-linear architectures that promote cellular fate related to propagation of human neuroblastoma cells and directed differentiation towards neurons. By mimicking biological networks that allow for spreading of the cells instead of confining them in a groove or a well, a nonlinear configuration can promote a relaxed, self-supportive cell niche. The tailoring of non-homogeneous adhesion sites via the geometry and the compliance and roughness of the substrate allows a versatile microenvironment that promotes propagation and neuronal differentiation.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:vcu.edu/oai:scholarscompass.vcu.edu:etd-4522
Date01 January 2014
CreatorsMoustafa, Mahmoud
PublisherVCU Scholars Compass
Source SetsVirginia Commonwealth University
Detected LanguageEnglish
Typetext
Formatapplication/pdf
SourceTheses and Dissertations
Rights© The Author

Page generated in 0.0015 seconds