Peptoid-Cross-Linked Hydrogel Stiffness Modulates Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Immunoregulatory Potential in the Presence of Interferon-Gamma.

Human mesenchymal stromal cell (hMSC) manufacturing requires the production of large numbers of therapeutically potent cells. Licensing with soluble cytokines improves hMSC therapeutic potency by enhancing secretion of immunoactive factors but typically decreases proliferative ability. Soft hydrogels, however, have shown promise for boosting immunomodulatory potential, which may compensate for decreased proliferation.