Overall concept of the study.

<p>DFAT cells derived from adipocytes are encapsulated into the center core of alginate fibers and allowed to form into cell fiber. DFAT cell fiber is subsequently induced for differentiation into smooth muscle cell lineage in induction media containing TGF-β. As cells’ inherent cell traction force increases during this process, linear cell fiber self-assembles to coiled spring structure. Such smooth muscle-like cell springs may serve as tissue engineering building blocks.