Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells on three-dimensional polymer scaffolds.

ABSTRACT: Human embryonic stem (hES) cells hold promise as an unlimited source of cells for transplantation therapies. However, control of their proliferation and differentiation into complex, viable 3D tissues is challenging. Here we examine the use of biodegradable polymer scaffolds for promoting hES cell growth and differentiation and formation of 3D structures. We show that complex structures with features of various committed embryonic tissues can be generated, in vitro, by using early differentiating hES cells and further inducing their differentiation in a supportive 3D environment such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)/poly(L-lactic acid) polymer scaffolds. We found that hES cell differentiation and organization can be influenced by the scaffold and directed by growth factors such as retinoic

SUBMITTER: Levenberg S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC240688 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature