Peptide- and Protein-Graphene Oxide Conjugate Materials for Controlling Mesenchymal Stem Cell Fate

Abstract

Stem cells hold great potential in tissue engineering due to their prolonged self-renewal and ability to differentiate into a variety of cell lines. Leveraging stem cells in regenerative healing requires the ability to support stem cell vitality, localize and retain the stem cells at the site where they are needed, and control their differentiation into specified cell types. To address these needs, graphene oxide (GO), a two-dimensional nanocarbon material, has been widely investigated due to its unique structural characteristics that interface with biomolecules and impart cytocompatibility. To expand on the utility of GO in tissue engineering applications, researchers have incorporated GO with peptides and proteins to provide an additional level of control over stem cell fate. This review focuses on how peptide- and protein-GO conjugates are utilized for stem cell instruction, growth, delivery, and retention in the following ways: GO as a delivery vehicle for stem cell-inducing proteins; peptide- and protein-GO conjugates as two- or three-dimensional cell scaffolds; and GO as an additive in peptide- and protein-based hydrogels. These technologies highlight the value that peptide- and protein-GO conjugates possess in addressing the challenges associated with stem cell therapies. Future directions for the continued research of peptide- and protein-GO conjugates are projected as we look to further advance the field of regenerative tissue engineering using these powerful hybrid materials. Stem cell therapies can be used to replace or rebuild damaged tissue through natural healing pathways. However, using stem cells in tissue engineering requires novel technologies that control stem cell fate. Hybrid materials comprised of graphene oxide (GO) and proteins represent a promising new technology with the ability to interface with stem cells. In these systems, the GO acts as a scaffold for cell growth and supports the protein which, in turn, supplies the appropriate chemical cues to direct stem cell fate toward regenerative healing.