Peptide-Functionalized Hydrogels Modulate Integrin Expression and Stemness in Adult Human Epidermal Keratinocytes.

ABSTRACT: The extracellular matrix (ECM) controls keratinocyte proliferation, migration, and differentiation through β-integrin signaling. Wound-healing research requires expanding cells in vitro while maintaining replicative capacity; however, early terminal differentiation under traditional culture conditions limits expansion. Here, a design of experiments approach identifies poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogel formulations with mechanical properties (elastic modulus, E = 20.9 ± 0.56 kPa) and bioactive peptide sequences that mimic the epidermal ECM. These hydrogels enable systematic investigation of the influence of cell-binding domains from fibronectin (RGDS), laminin (YIGSR), and collagen IV (HepIII) on keratinocyte stemness and β₁ integrin expression. Quantification of 14-day kerati

SUBMITTER: Davis-Hall D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11949078 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature