Biochemical and Physical Signal Gradients in Hydrogels to Control Stem Cell Behavior

Three-dimensional (3D) gradients of biochemical and physical signals in macroscale, degradable hydrogels have been engineered that can regulate photoencapsulated human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) behavior. This simple, cytocompatible and versatile gradient system may be a valuable tool for researchers in biomaterials science to control stem cell fate in 3D and guide tissue regeneration.