The effect of conjugating RGD into 3D alginate hydrogels on adipogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stromal cells

The effects of RGD peptide conjugation to alginate hydrogel on the adipogenic differentiation of ASCs was investigated. After 3 d of culture, RGD-modified alginate hydrogels significantly stimulated FAK and integrin α1 gene expressions and vinculin expression in ASCs. In addition, RGD-modified alginate hydrogels significantly enhanced the adipogenic differentiation of human ASCs to exhibit higher expression levels of oil red O staining and adipogenic genes compared to those of the control group (unmodified gels). These results suggest potential applications of RGD-modified alginate gels for adipose tissue regeneration.