Substrate topography determines the fate of chondrogenesis from human mesenchymal stem cells resulting in specific cartilage phenotype formation.

To reproduce a complex and functional tissue, it is crucial to provide a biomimetic cellular microenvironment that not only incorporates biochemical cues, but also physical features including the nano-topographical patterning, for cell/matrix interaction. We developed spatially-controlled nano-topography in the form of nano-pillar, nano-hole and nano-grill on polycaprolactone surface via thermal nanoimprinting. The effects of chondroitin sulfate-coated nano-topographies on cell characteristics and chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) were investigated. Our results show that various nano-topographical patterns triggered changes in MSC morphology and cytoskeletal structure, affecting cell aggregation and differentiation. Compared to non-patterned surface, nano-pillar and nano-hole topography enhanced MSC chondrogenesis and facilitated hyaline cartilage formation. MSCs experienced delayed chondrogenesis on nano-grill topography and were induced to fibro/superficial zone cartilage formation. This study demonstrates the sensitivity of MSC differentiation to surface nano-topography and highlights the importance of incorporating topographical design in scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering. From the clinical editor: These authors have developed spatially-controlled nano-topography in the form of nano-pillar, nano-hole and nano-grill on polycaprolactone surface via thermal nanoimprinting, and the effects of chondroitin sulfate-coated nano-topographies on cell characteristics and chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were investigated. It has been concluded that MSC differentiation is sensitive to surface nano-topography, and certain nano-imprinted surfaces are more useful than others for cartilage tissue engineering.