Kathleen N. Halwachs

Matrix Stiffness Regulates Mechanotransduction and Vascular Network Formation of hiPSC-Derived Endothelial Progenitors Encapsulated in 3D Hydrogels

This study shows that vascular network formation by hiPSC-derived endothelial progenitors in 3D hydrogels depends on matrix stiffness, contractility, and cell-induced remodeling, not just mechanotransduction.

Dynamic Stiffening to Improve Vasculogenesis of hiPSC-Derived Endothelial Progenitors

This study shows that dynamically adjusting hydrogel stiffness during vasculogenesis improves vascular network formation, while late stiffening disrupts it, with effects mediated by FAK and Rho kinase.

Tuning Scaffold Degradation with Non-Natural Peptidomimetics to Control Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cell Morphology and Vessel Formation

This study shows that tuning hydrogel degradation using non-natural peptoid substitutions affects HUVEC morphology and vessel formation by altering MMP secretion.