Shaping and Controlling Stem and Progenitor Cells (C2.1)

The 3D microenvironments of cells and tissues are highly dynamic and anisotropic. This is a challenge, but also an opportunity to control the behavior and fate of stem and progenitor cells. We will investigate how active 3D bio-metamaterials (including photo-switches and light-controlled host-guest systems) influence the cellular microenvironment in multicellular systems derived from various stem cell lines as well as patient-derived cells. We pay close attention to both mechanical and biochemical cues. As readouts, we will use single cells genomics, morphological analysis and pathway-specific reporters.