Homogeneous and organized differentiation within embryoid bodies induced by microsphere-mediated delivery of small molecules.

ABSTRACT: Cell specification and tissue formation during embryonic development are precisely controlled by the local concentration and temporal presentation of morphogenic factors. Similarly, pluripotent embryonic stem cells can be induced to differentiate in vitro into specific phenotypes in response to morphogen treatment. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are commonly differentiated as 3D spheroids referred to as embryoid bodies (EBs); however, differentiation of cells within EBs is typically heterogeneous and disordered. In this study, we demonstrate that in contrast to soluble morphogen treatment, delivery of morphogenic factors directly within EB microenvironments in a spatiotemporally controlled manner using polymer microspheres yields homogeneous, synchronous and organized ESC differentiation. Deg

SUBMITTER: Carpenedo RL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2921510 | biostudies-literature | 2009 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature