Biomimetic Hydrogels to Recapitulate the 3D Cellular Microenvironment

Dear Colleagues,

The native cellular microenvironment is inherently complex, with biochemical cues contributed by protein and polysaccharide extracellular matrix (ECM) components and soluble signaling factors, heterogeneous mechanical properties, and microstructural features spanning several orders of magnitude in size. The versatility of hydrogel materials in recapitulating these microenvironmental features makes them attractive platforms for culturing cells in physiologically relevant 3D contexts ex vivo. Biomimetic engineered hydrogel platforms are being investigated as culture systems to expand, differentiate, and transplant stem cells for therapeutic applications, as in vitro models to study the underlying biology of development and disease, and as drug screening and diagnostic tools.

This Special Issue focuses on the development of hydrogel platforms that mimic aspects of the native cellular microenvironment. Emphasis is placed on novel methods for controlling hydrogel biochemical and biophysical properties, such as development of new chemistries to crosslink and functionalize cell-laden hydrogels, protein-engineered materials, self-assembling materials, and additive manufacturing approaches to impart spatial organization in engineered constructs. 

Dr. Christopher M. Madl
Guest Editor

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