Our new paper explored the effects of compression loading in mesenchymal stem cells encapsulated in 3D collagen micro-tissues. Short-term dynamic compression results suggested crosstalk between integrin-based signalling and mechanosensing, while long-term compression loading induced maturation of 3D matrix adhesions (3DMAs) and potentiated hMSC osteogenesis.
Check out the published paper here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120292
Extracellular matrix (ECM) provides both physical support and bioactive signals such as growth factors and cytokines to cells at their microenvironment or niche. Engineering the matrix niche becomes an important approach to study or manipulate cellular fate. This work presents an overview on the reconstitution of the ECM niche through a wide range of approaches ranging from coating culture dish with ECM molecules to decellularization of native tissues.
Check out the published book chapter here: https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.mcb.2020.01.001