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A New Gel for Stem Cell
Engineering team invents ultra-dynamic hydrogel to promote stem cell differentiation and tissue engineering development
A multidisciplinary research team from CUHK has developed a super dynamic cross-linked hydrogel that can promote the differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchyme stem cells. The research is of great significance to the development of tissue engineering repair materials.
Co-led by Prof. Bian Liming of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Prof. Wang Yi of the Department of Physics, the team recently invented a supramolecular hydrogel that serves as an excellent three-dimensional cell culture experiment tool for basic biomedical research such as stem cells and tumour in vitro models, and can be used as an effective delivery vehicle for therapeutic cells to serve many transformational types, including regenerative medicine.
‘Hydrogels have unique physical properties and high biocompatibility. They can mimic the components of extracellular matrix and promote the replenishment of endoprogenitor cells,’ explained Professor Bian. ‘As a carrier of stem cells, the gels with ultra-dynamic mechanical properties encapsulated with the cultivated stem cells can be injected into the defect site to support the spreading and directed differentiation of the cells in them. They will assist the body in self-recovery and rebuild tissues, which can provide a strong foundation for the future development of regenerative medicine.’
Related research results were published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature Communications.