Directed differentiation of human iPSCs into mesenchymal lineages by optogenetic control of TGF-β signaling.

In tissue development and homeostasis, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling is finely coordinated by latent forms and matrix sequestration. Optogenetics can offer precise and dynamic control of cell signaling. We report the development of an optogenetic human induced pluripotent stem cell system for TGF-β signaling and demonstrate its utility in directing differentiation into the smooth muscle, tenogenic, and chondrogenic lineages.

Bioengineering Human Cartilage-Bone Tissues for Modeling of Osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease worldwide, yet we continue to lack an understanding of disease etiology and pathology and effective treatment options. Essential to tissue homeostasis, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic responses are the stratified organization of cartilage and cross talk at the osteochondral junction. Animal models may capture some of these features, but to establish clinically consistent therapeutics, there remains a need for high-fidelity models of OA that meet all the above requirements in a human patient-specific manner.

Tissue engineered autologous cartilage-bone grafts for temporomandibular joint regeneration.

Joint disorders can be detrimental to quality of life. There is an unmet need for precise functional reconstruction of native-like cartilage and bone tissues in the craniofacial space and particularly for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Current surgical methods suffer from lack of precision and comorbidities and frequently involve multiple operations.

Long-Acting IL-33 Mobilizes High-Quality Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells More Efficiently Than Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor or AMD3100.

Mobilization of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) has become increasingly important for hematopoietic cell transplantation. Current mobilization approaches are insufficient because they fail to mobilize sufficient numbers of cells in a significant fraction of patients and are biased toward myeloid immune reconstitution. A novel, single drug mobilization agent that allows a more balanced (myeloid and lymphoid) reconstitution would therefore be highly favorable to improve transplantation outcome.