Cell fate decisions result from cues present in the extracellular microenvironment or the niche. To exploit the full potential of human pluripotent stem cells for regenerative medicine, developmental biology, and drug discovery, defined culture conditions are needed for propagation and directed differentiation. While most investigations focus on soluble factors, cell fate decisions are also directed by the insoluble components to which cells adhere. To identify synthetic surfaces capable of promoting cell propagation or differentiation, we have developed chemically defined surface arrays. These arrays provide the means to screen multiple substrates that engage different cell surface receptors. The arrays give rise to surfaces that promote the long-term propagation of human pluripotent stem cells. Additionally, we have used the concept of pre-organization to assemble complexes that sensitize cells to signals in their environment. In this way, we devised tailored synthetic surfaces that exert precise spatial control over signaling and therefore cell fate decisions. 

Tailored synthetic surfaces to control pluripotent cell propagation and differentiation

242nd National Meeting (2011)

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