Nano-ligand System for Reversible Stem Cell Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for controlling stem cell adhesion and differentiation are static and unable to reversibly change macroscale ligand density in real-time, limiting the remote control of regenerative processes.

Innovation Solution

A nano-ligand system comprising magnetic nanoparticles, a coating layer with integrin-binding ligand peptides, and a polyethylene glycol linker, allowing for electrostatic coupling and reversible spatiotemporal control of nano-ligand density using an external magnetic field.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static nano-ligand presentation is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to reversibly change macroscale ligand density in real-time is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereversible control of ligand densityVSAvoidnano-ligand system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by designing a nano-ligand system where magnetic nanoparticles can dynamically change their position and density on the substrate in response to external magnetic fields. The nano-ligands are not fixed but can be remotely controlled to slide and reposition, enabling real-time reversible changes in macroscale ligand density. This transforms a static presentation system into a dynamic one that can adapt to different cellular needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or chemical methods of controlling ligand density with a magnetic field-based system. Instead of using mechanical actuators or chemical reactions to reposition nano-ligands, an external magnetic field is applied to control the movement of magnetic nanoparticles. This substitution enables non-contact, remote control with high spatial and temporal precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If magnetic nanoparticles with coating layers and linkers are used, then remote control capability is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control of stem cell adhesionVSAvoidnano-ligand preparation process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the nano-ligand into distinct functional components: a magnetic nanoparticle core, a coating layer containing integrin-binding ligand peptides, and a linker connecting them. This modular structure allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall manufacturing process by enabling separate preparation and assembly of parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite materials by combining magnetic nanoparticles with biological ligand peptides through a linker and coating layer. This creates a hybrid material that integrates the magnetic properties of inorganic nanoparticles with the biological functionality of organic peptides, enabling both remote control and specific cell adhesion promotion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Productivity

If dynamically adjustable nano-ligand density is implemented, then real-time control of stem cell differentiation is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol efficiency of stem cell adhesion and differentiationVSAvoidmagnetic field control system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems with a magnetic field-based control mechanism. By applying external magnetic fields, the system can remotely and non-invasively control the position and density of magnetic nanoparticle-based nano-ligands in real-time, achieving efficient control of stem cell adhesion and differentiation without mechanical actuators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the strength and distribution of external magnetic fields to control nano-ligand density dynamically. By adjusting magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, spatial distribution), the system can reversibly modulate ligand density at different locations and times, enabling precise control over stem cell behavior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables efficient and reversible control of stem cell adhesion and differentiation both ex vivo and in vivo, mimicking extracellular matrix remodeling for remote regulation of cellular processes.

Implementation Method 1

controlling adhesion and differentiation of stem cells by treating the nano-ligand presenting substrate with stem cells and then applying an external magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a nano-ligand which is electrostatically coupled with a substrate and is movable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic coupling: Electrostatics

Data Source

PatentUS11828719B2Nano-ligand for promoting cell adhesion and differentiation of stem cells and method of promoting cell adhesion and differentiation of stem cells by using the same
Publication Date: 2023.11.28 KOREA UNIV RES & BUSINESS FOUND
  • US11828719B2 patent drawing
  • US11828719B2 patent drawing
  • US11828719B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a nano-ligand for promoting cell adhesion and differentiation of stem cells and a method of promoting cell adhesion and differentiation of stem cells by using the nano-ligand, and the method of promoting cell adhesion and differentiation of stem cells according to the present invention may temporally and spatially, and reversibly control nano-ligand sliding by applying a magnetic field to a substrate including the nano-ligands, and efficiently control stem cell adhesion and differentiation ex vivo or in vivo through the magnetic-field based on spatiotemporal control.