3D Mechanical Confinement Directs Muscle Stem Cell Fate and Function (Adv. Biology 4/2025)

Abstract

3D Confinement Regulates Muscle Stem Cell Fate

In this study a 3D hydrogel bilayer platform is developed that mimics the regenerating muscle stem cell (MuSC) niche by modulating confinement and stiffness. Increased 3D confinement preserves MuSC stemness, limiting activation, proliferation, and differentiation. Findings suggest mechanical cues act as a “brake” on myogenic commitment through nuclear and epigenetic regulation. More details can be found in article number 2400717 by Woojin M. Han and co-workers.