Nanofiber Design for Human Stem Cell Culture

This review describes the recent developments in natural and synthetic nanofibers to support human stem cell (hSC) propagation and differentiation. Nanofibers are promising substrates for regenerative medicine because of their morphologies that structurally mimic the in vivo microenvironment, that is, the extracellular matrix (ECM). Cellular behavior, including attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, can be modulated by modifying nanofiber properties. Nanofibers that have been successfully used for the culture of including human pluripotent stem cells are classified as oligopeptide-immobilized nanofibers prepared from synthetic polymers,or natural polymers, and ECM-modified nanofibers. The combination of human ECM proteins or cell adhesion molecules and nanofibers with well-designed properties provides an alternative to traditional 2D media for the culture and maintenance of the pluripotency or the differentiation of hSCs. Nanofibers with macroporous networks could enhance cell infiltration. Three-dimensional nanofiber scaffolds offer an opportunity for functional tissue regeneration. This review explores the effects of nanofibers on human stem cell pluripotency and their fates.