Mechanically regulated microcarriers with stem cell loading for skin photoaging therapy

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation compromises skin structural integrity and results in disruption of normal physiological functions. Stem cells have gained attention in anti-photoaging, while controlling the tissue mechanical microenvironment of cell delivery sites is crucial for regulating cell fate and achieving optimal therapeutic performances. Here, we introduce a mechanically regulated human recombinant collagen (RHC) microcarrier generated through microfluidics, which is capable of modulating stem cell differentiation to treat photoaged skin. By controlling the cross-linking parameters, the mechanical properties of microcarriers could precisely tuned to optimize the stem cell differentiation. The microcarriers are surface functionalized with fibronectin (Fn)-platelet derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) to facilitate adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (Ad-MSCs) loading. In in vivo experiments, subcutaneous injection of stem cell loaded RHC microcarriers significantly reduced skin wrinkles after ultraviolet-injury, effectively promoted collagen synthesis, and increased vascular density. These encouraging results indicate that the present mechanically regulated microcarriers have great potential to deliver stem cells and regulate their differentiation for anti-photoaging treatments. • Mechanical properties can be precisely tuned to optimize the stem cell differentiation. • Ultrasoft RHC microcarriers provided resistance against apoptosis and ROS in photoaged HaCaT cells. • Ad-MSC-loaded RHC microcarriers offering a promising strategy for anti-aging therapy.