Extracellular Matrix Components as Modulators of Adult Stem Cell Differentiation in an Adipose System

Abstract

The viability of a cell-based device may be controlled post-implantation by managing the level of cellular differentiation. Cellular adhesion to extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins is fundamentally linked to tissue development, maintenance of tissue organization, and many pathological conditions. Cellular interaction with ECM regulates the proliferation and differentiation of cells. This study investigates the efficacy of ECM components (laminin and collagen) in modulating the differentiation of adult mouse bone marrow stem cells (D1) to adipocytes. This study should assist in the development of clinically viable soft-tissue implants.