Methods and devices for controlling stem cell function and gene expression

A method of stimulating and controlling stem cell activity and differentiation on a modified material substrate and a device including the modified material substrate are provided. The method includes providing a material substrate configured for medical use. The material substrate includes at least one surface or interior area available for modification, and the at least one surface or interior area is treated with a plurality of pulsed light beams to obtain a modified material substrate with at least one modified surface or interior area. The at least one modified surface or interior area has a biomimetic architecture with surface and bulk (interior) features, properties, and textures configured to accelerate and control stem cell differentiation when the modified material substrate is contacted with stem cells.