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Stem Cell Regulation Using Nanofibrous Membranes with Defined Structure and Pore Size

Electrospun nanofibers have been researched extensively in the culturing of stem cells to understand their behavior since electrospun fibers mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) in many types of mammalian tissues. Here, electrospun nanofibers with defined structure (orientation/alignment) and pore size could significantly modulate human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) behavior. Controlling the fiber membrane pore size was predominantly influenced by the duration of electrospinning, while the alignment of the fiber membrane was determined by parallel electrode collector design. Electric field simulation data provided information on the electrostatic interactions in this electrospinning apparatus.hMSCs on small-sized pores (~3-10 µm²) tended to promote the cytoplasmic retention of Yes-associated protein (YAP), while larger pores (~30-45 µm²) promoted the nuclear activation of YAP. hMSCs also displayed architecture-mediated behavior, as the cells aligned along with the fiber membranes orientation. Additionally, fiber membranes affected nuclear size and shape, indicating changes in cytoskeletal tension, which coincided with YAP activity. The mechanistic understanding of hMSC behavior on defined nanofiber structures seeks to advance their translation into more clinical settings and increase biomanufacturing efficiencies.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:unt.edu/info:ark/67531/metadc1986047
Date08 1900
CreatorsBlake, Laurence A
ContributorsYang, Yong, Meckes, Brian, Yang, Huaxiao
PublisherUniversity of North Texas
Source SetsUniversity of North Texas
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis or Dissertation
FormatText
RightsPublic, Blake, Laurence A, Copyright, Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights Reserved.

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