Inspired by the intrinsic morphology of smooth muscle cells (SMCs), a micropatterned hydrogel is developed to direct and define the boundary conditions for efficient SMC differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The results show that in conjunction with TGF-β1 treatment, muscle-mimicking shapes with intermediate aspect ratios ranging from 5:1 to 10:1 exert the strongest pro-SMC differentiation effects in a structural–contractile force-dependent manner. These findings are expected to provide critical insights and design rules for vascular-related engineered tissue grafts.
- Chor Yong Tay
- Yun-Long Wu
- Lay Poh Tan
