StemGel represents a novel advancement in hydrogel technology, characterized by its biocompatibility, lack of xenogenic components, fully synthetic nature, and biodegradability. It serves as a crucial consumable in both stem cell research and therapy, facilitating cell cultivation and analysis. StemGel surpasses the conventional Matrigel® as it boasts superior properties. Its versatility finds application across various domains including pharmaceutical research, drug screening, advanced cell culture studies, and the production of cells for clinical trials and gene therapy. These applications necessitate consumable products that provide a conducive environment for the growth and differentiation of stem cells and organoids. Initial findings on the development of an artificial extracellular matrix (ECM) were published in "Advanced Functional Materials" (DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202010630) and patented by the FU Berlin (WO 2022/263560 A1).

The core innovation of this project lies in its utilization of renewable resources. By harnessing "green glycerin" sourced from biodiesel production, the hydrogel's primary component can be derived sustainably, eliminating the need for toxic precursors.

The GreenCHEM funding aims to steer the research towards a sustainable approach, characterized by resource-efficient synthesis.

www.stemgel.de

Lasse Riediger, PI (lasse@zedat.fu-berlin.de)

Yi-An Yang, Ph.D