(T1145) Colloidal self-assembled patterns (cSAPs) promote intestinal differentiation via TGF-β pathway and serotonin neuron differentiation via Sonic Hedgehog pathway
Researcher Oujiang Lab/Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
Abstract: Colloidal self-assembled patterns (cSAPs) exhibit highly organized surface structures with heterogeneous surface chemistries, generating well-defined physicochemical cues that influence cellular behavior. Binary colloidal crystals (BCCs), a subset of cSAPs, possess intricate surface micro/nanostructures and heterogeneous chemical properties, positioning them as significant regulators of the in vitro microenvironment. Previous research has shown that BCCs can modulate the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). However, limited studies have explored the potential of BCCs in facilitating hESC differentiation into endodermal (intestinal organoids) and ectodermal (serotonin-producing neurons) lineages. Our results demonstrate that one type of BCCs enhances hESC differentiation into endodermal cells and accelerates intestinal organoid formation through the TGF-β signaling and integrin-mediated signaling pathways. Another type of BCCs promotes hESC differentiation into serotonin neurons via the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway. This study offers valuable insights into the role of physicochemical cues in directing hESC differentiation into specific cell types, enhancing our understanding of mechanotransduction. It also presents a promising strategy for reducing culture time and facilitating the transition from laboratory research to clinical applications.
Funding Source: PYW thanks the support from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2022YFA1105101) and the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (LZ23C070004).
