Magnetic Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Directing Myofibroblast Activity in Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Abstract

Dynamic cell-culture materials that can change mechanical properties in response to extrinsic stimuli are emerging as promising tools for cell and tissue engineering research. However, most of these techniques involve a one-way stiffening or softening through changes in the materials chemistry, which does not allow reversibility. Here, the incorporation of superparamagnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles within poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels as dynamic cell culture materials is demonstrated. Using simple permanent magnets and adipose-derived stem cells, a near twofold increase in cell spread area and an accompanying 20% enrichment in cells expressing alpha-smooth muscle actin is seen. This platform provides a means to study relationships between dynamic stiffening and cell behavior, using permanent magnets and clinically viable composite materials, with scope for use as a tool to enrich the myofibroblast population in stromal cells.