Single-Layer Graphene Enhances the Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Vitro and In Vivo

In recent years, although several studies have demonstrated the potential of graphene-coated substrates in promoting attachment, proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the effects of single-layer graphene on the osteogenic differentiation of human MSCs (hMSCs) remains unclear, especially in vivo. In this study, we transferred chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown single-layer graphene to glass slides and observed its effects on adhesion, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) and human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMMSCs) in vitro. Then, in vivo, we incubated hASCs and hBMMSCs on single-layer graphene-coated smooth titanium (Ti) disks before implanting them into the back subcutaneous area of nude mice. We found that single-layer graphene accelerated cell adhesion to the substrate without influencing cell proliferation of hMSCs. Moreover, we present the first study that explores the epigenetic role of single-layer graphene in determining stem cell fate. By utilizing epigenetic approaches, we reveal that single-layer graphene promotes osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs both in vitro and in vivo, potentially by upregulating methylation of H3K4 at the promoter regions of osteogenesis-associated genes. Overall, our results highlight the potential of this material in implants and injured tissues in clinical applications.