News Health & Medicine New material could support stem cell development 'Smart' gel could help coax stem cells to develop into heart cells By Tina Hesman Saey December 14, 2009 at 6:38 pm - More than 2 years ago Share this:Share Share via email (Opens in new window) Email Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit Share on X (Opens in new window) X Print (Opens in new window) Print The right kind of support could make stem cells more biddable. BIOIMITATION The elasticity profile of a new synthetic gel matrix (red) is similar to that of a chick’s developing heart tissue (black). J. Young A new gel may give physical cues that coax stem cells to develop correctly and repair tissue damaged by heart attacks.