Stem cell plasticity, osteogenic differentiation and the third dimension

J Mater Sci Mater Med. 2010 Mar;21(3):999-1004. doi: 10.1007/s10856-009-3926-7. Epub 2009 Nov 11.

Abstract

Different cues present in the cellular environment control basic biological processes. A previously established 3D microwell array was used to study dimensionality-related effects on osteogenic differentiation and plasticity of marrow stromal cells. To enable long-term culture of single cells in the array a novel surface functionalization technique was developed, using the principle of subtractive micro contact printing of fibronectin and surface passivation with a triblock-copolymer. Immunohistochemical stainings showed that when cultivated in 3D microenvironments, marrow stromal cells can be maintained in the wells for up to 7 days and be induced to commit to the osteogenic lineage. In conclusion, this work shows the modification of a 3D microwell array allowing the long term study of single stem cell plasticity and fate in controlled microenvironments.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Lineage
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Culture Media / metabolism
  • Cytological Techniques
  • Female
  • Fibronectins / chemistry
  • Fibronectins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteogenesis
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Stromal Cells / cytology*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Culture Media
  • Fibronectins