Year 1

The goal of the project is to develop well-defined synthetic matrices composed of polymers and peptides that provide the optimum cell-matrix interactions for hPSC proliferation and differentiation by using a microarray technology recently developed in our laboratory. We have selected PMVE-alt-MA and PSS-hydorgel (coplolymer) as the candidates for supporting hPSC expansion; other polymers will also be tested. A platform for peptide array has been established for the future peptide screening for hPSC expansion and differentiation. We identified poly(allylamine hydrochloride) as a polymer that supports differentiated hNPC self renewal; other polymers and peptides will be tested for supporting hPSC differentiation. The time line remains the same.