Author Archives: Kyra Baricaua

Synthetic scaffolds outperform traditional methods for growing hPSCs-derived cardiomyocytes

VitroGel® Hydrogel Matrix serves as a key benchmark for 3D cell culture in developing a novel thermo-responsive platform . The research successfully demonstrated that the new synthetic scaffold supports robust stem cell expansion and directs them to differentiate into functional cardiomyocytes with high efficiency. By using  VitroGel® as a reliable control, the study validated its […]

Decoding the Crucial Role of Carotid Body in Maximizing Exercise Metabolism with VitroGel

VitroGel® 3D enables precise chemogenetic targeting of carotid body cells to uncover metabolic function. During intense exercise, our bodies have a “ceiling” for oxygen consumption, known as peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ peak), which is a key determinant of athletic endurance. For decades, scientists have known that a tiny organ in the neck, the carotid body, […]

Scalable Expansion of MSCs in 3D VitroGel® MSC Microcapsules for Biomanufacturing

VitroGel® MSC overcomes the limitations of 2D and microcarrier systems by delivering a reproducible, scalable, and functional workflow for MSC biomanufacturing, from expansion to genetic engineering. The production of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) at a clinical scale faces persistent challenges. Traditional 2D culture systems and microcarriers are limited by scalability, high costs, and difficulties in […]

The Growth and Neuronal Differentiation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Xeno-Free Functional Synthetic Hydrogel​

Abstract: Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer a powerful starting point to study the molecular dynamics of the developing nervous system. Further, they provide an invaluable tool for developing patient-specific models to study the disease process. Therefore, optimizing their growth in a defined, native 3D state is of paramount importance to both guide and […]

Developing a Biofunctional Xeno-free Hydrogel Platform for Long-term 3D Neuronal Differentiation and Maintenance

Abstract: The development of in vitro systems for long-term neuronal differentiation and survival is crucial for understanding both physiological processes and various disease states. While traditional two-dimensional (2D) neuron models have been instrumental in neuroscience research, these systems fail to maintain neuron viability over extended periods, impeding prolonged neuronal maturation. One reason for this limitation is that 2D-based models misrepresent […]

Inside-Out or Outside-In? How Organoid Polarity Shapes Nutrition and Drug Discovery Research

Epithelial polarity, the organized distinction between an apical surface (that faces lumen or the outside) and a basolateral surface (that interfaces with stroma and blood) is a fundamental feature of many tissues, especially the intestinal epithelium. In recent years, three-dimensional (3D) organoid models have become central to nutrition, pharmacology, infection biology, and personalized medicine because […]

See you at SfN – Neuroscience 2025

Discover the Future of 3D Cell Culture at SfN – Neuroscience 2025 We’re excited to announce our first-ever participation at Neuroscience 2025! Join us on November 15–19, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center to explore how VitroGel®, our xeno-free, synthetic hydrogel system, is driving the shift toward animal-free, reproducible, and scalable 3D cell culture […]