Photothermal modulation of human stem cells using light-responsive 2D nanomaterials

Two-dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS(2)) nanomaterials are an emerging class of biomaterials that are photoresponsive at near-infrared wavelengths (NIR). Here, we demonstrate the ability of 2D MoS(2) to modulate cellular functions of human stem cells through photothermal mechanisms. The interaction of MoS(2) and NIR stimulation of MoS(2) with human stem cells is investigated using whole-transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq). Global gene expression profile of stem cells reveals significant influence of MoS(2) and NIR stimulation of MoS(2) on integrins, cellular migration, and wound healing. The combination of MoS(2) and NIR light may provide new approaches to regulate and direct these cellular functions for the purposes of regenerative medicine as well as cancer therapy.