Whitaker International Scholar, 2008-09

Home Institution: Brown University

Host Country, Institution: Switzerland, ETH Zurich

Project Title: Engineered Microenvironment with Geometric and Mechanical Constraints to Regulate Stemcell Function

Project Abstract:

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of three-dimensional geometric constraints and mechanical forces on differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Cells respond to their microenvironments and geometric constraints, and applied mechanical forces have been observed to affect cell functions such as differentiation and apoptosis.  Complex microenvironments that incorporate 3D architecture are well suited to test force transduction as the application of forces can be geometry dependent.  Taking this viewpoint, we will determine the role of 3D geometry, substrate rigidity and mechanical forces on stem cell proliferation, differentiation and extracellular matrix production.