Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) are a promising tool for biomedical research due to their capabilities of self-renewal, almost indefinite proliferation, and ability to give rise to all human cell types. Cytoskeletal organization has proven to be a critical factor for many stem cell behaviors and can effect cellular organization and polarity. This work outlines the role of cell polarization in hPSC commitment. Micro-contact printing was utilized to create patterns with symmetrical and non-symmetrical features to display and promote polarization of cells. Cell polarity, spindle orientation, cell division, and lineage specification of dividing and daughter cells were then quantified and correlated to illicit the role of asymmetric division for hPSCs. Understanding the mechanisms by which cell shape and cell division can control lineage specification has the ability to provide great insight for the design of biomaterials and ultimately their use in regenerative medicine.

Parsing the role of cell asymmetric division in regulation of stem cell lineage specification

245th National Meeting (2013)

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