Size-Optimized Layered Double Hydroxide Nanoparticles Promote Neural Progenitor Cells Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells Through the Regulation of M6A Methylation

This study investigates how magnesium aluminum layered double hydroxide (MgAl-LDH) nanoparticles affect the differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into neural progenitor cells (NPCs). They tested MgAl-LDH nanoparticles of varying sizes (30 nm, 50 nm, and 100 nm) to see which size was most effective. The researchers found that all three sizes of MgAl-LDH were biocompatible, but the 100 nm particles were the most effective at promoting the differentiation of ESCs into NPCs. They also discovered that this differentiation process is linked to m6A RNA methylation, a modification that affects gene expression. The study suggests that MgAl-LDH nanoparticles, particularly the 100 nm size, can regulate ESC differentiation into NPCs by increasing m6A RNA methylation of a specific gene called Sox1. This finding could be important for developing new strategies for stem cell therapies.

• 1
  MgAl-LDH nanoparticles of 100 nm size significantly promote the differentiation of ESCs into NPCs compared to 30 nm and 50 nm sizes.
• 2
  The enhanced NPCs differentiation by MgAl-LDH is closely related to the m6A RNA methylation process, specifically through the upregulation of the m6A RNA methyltransferase METTL3.
• 3
  MgAl-LDH nanoparticles increase the m6A level of Sox1 mRNA, enhancing its stability and promoting NPCs differentiation.