Biomechanical Regulation of Stem Cell Fate

This review summarizes the current insights into stem cell fate determination by biomechanics. We also highlight recent findings that illustrate how mechanotransduction conveys changes in the extrinsic environment to program stem cell fate and how the intrinsic mechanical properties of stem cells regulate their functions. Emerging evidence in stem cell biology has shown that extrinsic mechanical cues, especially the viscoelasticity and topography of the extracellular matrix (ECM), influence many aspects of stem cell behavior, including self-renewal and differentiation. Cell-intrinsic mechanical properties of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) play crucial roles in maintaining HSCs attachment to the physical microenvironment (niche), which is critical for preserving HSCs quiescence and hematopoietic regeneration. The intrinsic and extrinsic mechanical properties play important roles in controlling stem cell function and fate direction. Using biomechanics as a novel regulator of stem cell fate will provide insight into stem cell biology and aid in understanding the molecular mechanisms and crosstalk between biomechanics and stem cells. Ultimately, advances in the biomechanical regulation of stem cell fate will contribute to the development of regenerative medicine.