Date of Graduation

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Biomedical Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Samsonraj, Rebakah

Abstract

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent adult stem cells that are capable of differentiating into various skeletal tissues, making them promising candidates for regenerative medicine. A critical factor influencing their differentiation potential is mechanosensitivity, the ability to respond to mechanical stimuli. The mechanosensitive calcium ion channel PIEZO1 has emerged as a key regulator in this process, particularly in osteogenic differentiation. This study investigated the role of PIEZO1 in MSC osteogenesis through pharmacological activation using YODA1 and gene silencing via siRNA. Human bone marrow-derived MSCs were cultured and induced for osteogenic differentiation under varying concentrations and durations of YODA1 treatment. Alizarin Red staining demonstrated enhanced calcium deposition in YODA1-treated groups compared to controls, indicating increased osteogenic differentiation. Quantitative PCR revealed that YODA1-induced PIEZO1 expression was both dose- and time-dependent. However, higher concentrations and prolonged exposure led to diminished expression, suggesting a feedback regulatory mechanism. Additionally, siRNA-mediated silencing of PIEZO1 significantly reduced mineralization, confirming its necessity in osteogenesis. These findings underscore the pivotal role of PIEZO1 in MSC differentiation and highlight its potential as a target for enhancing bone tissue engineering strategies.

Keywords

osteogenic differentiation; PIEZO1; YODA1

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