Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasound Transducer (PMUT) driven stem cell differentiation and nerve regeneration for neural repair

Abstract: The interplay between mechanical forces and cellular behavior is a cornerstone of regenerative medicine, driving critical processes such as stem cell differentiation, tissue repair, and functional recovery. In recent years, this relationship has gained attention for its potential in nerve repair and neural tissue regeneration, especially using advanced ultrasonic technologies. Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers (PMUTs) have emerged as a transformative tool for delivering localized, high-frequency mechanical stimuli to cellular environments, enabling precise modulation of stem cell behavior and tissue repair.

This project proposes the design and application of tailored PMUT arrays to enhance stem cell differentiation and promote nerve repair through ultrasound-based stimulation. PMUT technology offers unparalleled control over biomechanical forces, allowing for non-invasive, spatially, and temporally precise delivery of acoustic energy. By leveraging these capabilities, we aim to influence cellular organization, enhance neural differentiation, and foster functional neural tissue repair.

Specifically, this work will validate PMUT arrays capable of generating finely tuned acoustic fields that interact with stem cells in engineered neural tissue models. The study will systematically explore how acoustic parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse patterns modulate stem cell behavior—from promoting neuronal lineage commitment to enhancing integration and functionality of neural networks. Our platform’s flexibility will allow optimization of acoustic stimuli to support neural repair, reduce inflammation, and improve overall recovery outcomes.