Engineering protein and cell adhesivity using PEO-terminated triblock polymers

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Surface Engineering
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Microfabrication techniques control cell adhesion by spatial localization of proteins or immobilization of nonadhesive polymers.
• Polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based polymers are used to inhibit protein adsorption and cell adhesion on surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply a PEO-terminated triblock polymer, Pluronic F108, for creating micropatterned nonadhesive domains on various biomaterials.
• To assess the effectiveness of Pluronic F108 in deterring cell adhesion and controlling tissue organization.
• To demonstrate the versatility of the technique across different biomaterials.

Main Methods:

• Utilized microfluidic tools and photolithographic techniques to apply Pluronic F108.
• Adsorbed Pluronic F108 to surfaces including tissue culture polystyrene, methylated glass, silicone, and polylactic-co-glycolic acid.
• Quantified the inhibition of cell adhesion in the presence of collagen I.

Main Results:

• Successfully created stable micropatterned nonadhesive domains using Pluronic F108.
• Demonstrated effective deterrence of cell adhesion for up to 4 weeks on various biomaterials.
• Showcased the ability to control tissue organization using these patterned surfaces.
• Quantified Pluronic F108's effectiveness against cell adhesion even with collagen I present.

Conclusions:

• Pluronic F108 offers a simple and effective method for micropatterning nonadhesive surfaces on diverse biomaterials.
• This technique provides a valuable tool for biomolecular surface engineering, controlling protein and cell interactions.
• The method facilitates precise control over cell adhesion and tissue organization for advanced biological applications.