Nanofibrous GelMA-Based Scaffolds Support Human Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell Adhesion, Viability, and Growth

Abstract

Drawing inspiration from the extracellular matrix (ECM), where fiber organization profoundly influences cell behavior, electrospun scaffolds have emerged as powerful tools for modulating cellular responses in vitro. While electrospinning enables the replication of ECM architecture, selecting suitable materials is paramount for effective cell adhesion and growth. In this study, we aimed to develop cost-effective scaffolds for human adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hAD-MSCs) using gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) blended with either polycaprolactone (PCL) or poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA). Through comparing randomly oriented and aligned fibers, we identified fiber direction as a critical factor in determining cell behavior. Surprisingly, we found that despite material hydrophobicity, the cells aligned with the fiber direction, highlighting the dominant influence of fiber alignment on cell spreading. This research underscores the importance of material selection and fiber orientation in engineering scaffolds for directing cell behavior in tissue regeneration applications.