Stress Relaxation Timescale and Hydrogel Network Connectivity Regulate Neural Progenitor Cell Stemness and Differentiation

Key Points

• This research investigates how stress relaxation timescale and hydrogel network connectivity affect neural progenitor cell characteristics.
• Utilized chemically defined three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels for experimentation
• Adjusted crosslink exchange rates in hydrogels
• Assessed neural progenitor cell stemness and differentiation
• Increased hydrogel connectivity promotes stemness in NPCs
• Optimal stress relaxation timescale supports differentiation
• Findings inform design strategies for cell replacement therapies