Manipulation of Stem Cells Fates: The Master and Multifaceted Roles of Biophysical Cues of Biomaterials

Owing to their self-renewal and differentiation ability, stem cells are conducive for repairing injured tissues, making them a promising source of seed cells for tissue engineering. The extracellular microenvironment (ECM) is under dynamic mechanical control, which is closely related to stem cell behaviors. During the design and fabrication of biomaterials for regenerative medicine, the physiochemical properties of the natural ECM should be closely mimicked, which can reinforce stem cell lineage choice and tissue engineering. By reproducing the biophysical stimulations that stem cells may experience in vivo, many studies have highlighted the key role of biophysical cues in regulation of cell fate. Optimization of biophysical factors leads to desirable stem cell functions, which can maximize the effectiveness of regenerative treatment. In this review, the main biophysical cues of biomaterials, including stiffness, topography, mechanical force, and external physical fields are summarized, and their individual and synergistic influence on stem cell behavior is discussed. Subsequently, the current progress in tissue regeneration using biomaterials is presented, which directs the design and fabrication of functional biomaterial. The mechanisms via which biophysical cues activate cellular responses are also analyzed. Finally, the challenges in basic research as well as for clinical translation in this field are discussed.

Automated summary

Stem cells have potential in tissue repair, and the design and fabrication of biomaterials for regenerative medicine should closely mimic the physiochemical properties of the natural ECM to enhance stem cell function. Optimization of biophysical factors can achieve desirable stem cell functions.