Osteoblast adhesion and proliferation on poly(3-octylthiophene) thin films

In this study we assessed the suitability of semiconducting P3OT thin films (30 nm) to sustain attachment, spreading, and proliferation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Cell area correlated with surface wettability: area was larger on the more hydrophilic surface (TCPS) and lower on the more hydrophobic surface (P3OT). Cells were rounder, characterized by higher circularity values, on TCPS and Si compared to P3OT. P3OT proliferation rate at 24 h fell twofold after 48 h, then recovered at 72 h to a value significantly higher than that on TCPS. Presoaking experiments showed no evidence of cytotoxic effects or leachants from P3OT. Overall, we conclude that P3OT is a viable substrate for osteoblast attachment and proliferation.