Enzymatically degradable poly (ethylene glycol) hydrogels for long term maintenance and differentiation of human embryonic stem cell derived pancreatic precursor cells

摘要

We developed a collagenase sensitive hydrogel platform whereby cell aggregates can be encapsulated, maintained in culture, and then released. Cell viability and aggregate morphology were maintained within the hydrogels over six weeks. β-cell markers increased during the first two weeks in culture and appeared to be highest with gamma secretase inhibitor. However, differentiation was not maintained suggesting the need to identify additional factors to support β-cell maturation.