Chuanyu Gao

Chuanyu Gao


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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24 July 2024 in Scientific Reports
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
YHYan Han
Yan Han
ZSZehua Shao
Zehua Shao
YZYuanhao Zhang
Yuanhao Zhang
HZHuan Zhao
Huan Zhao
ZSZirui Sun
Zirui Sun
CGChuanyu Gao
Chuanyu Gao
This study investigates how dynamic fluctuations in matrix stiffness affect the behavior of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) within a three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel environment. Using hybrid hydrogels with tunable stiffness, we created an in vitro model to mimic the varying stiffness of the cardiac microenvironment. By manipulating hydrogel stiffness, we examined CF responses, particularly the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), a marker of myofibroblast differentiation. Our findings reveal that increased matrix stiffness promotes the differentiation of CFs into myofibroblasts, while matrix softening reverses this process. Additionally, we identified the role of focal adhesions and integrin β1 in mediating stiffness-induced phenotypic switching. This study provides significant insights into the mechanobiology of cardiac fibrosis and suggests that modulating matrix stiffness could be a potential therapeutic strategy for treating cardiovascular diseases.