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Preparation of Light-responsive Membranes by a Combined Surface Grafting and Postmodification Process
Published on: March 21, 2014
Cell adhesion and proliferation onto chitosan-based membranes treated by plasma surface modification
Sandra M Luna1, Simone S Silva, Manuela E Gomes
13B's Research Group - Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, Department of Polymer Engineering, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine - AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra - Caldas das Taipas 4806-909, Guimarães, Portugal.
Plasma treatments enhance chitosan membrane biocompatibility. Argon and nitrogen plasma improved cell attachment and proliferation without cytotoxicity, making them suitable for biomedical applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Surface Chemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Surface properties significantly influence biomaterial function.
- Modifying biomaterial surfaces can improve cellular interactions.
- Chitosan is a promising biomaterial for various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of argon and nitrogen plasma treatments on chitosan membrane surface properties.
- To evaluate the impact of these modifications on L929 fibroblast cell behavior, including adhesion, proliferation, and cytotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Chitosan membranes were treated with argon and nitrogen plasma.
- Surface characterization using atomic force microscopy, contact angle measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assessment and direct contact assays with L929 cells.
Main Results:
- Plasma treatments altered chitosan membrane roughness, surface chemistry, and hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity.
- No cytotoxic effects were observed from any of the treated or untreated membranes.
- Significantly improved L929 cell adhesion and attachment on plasma-treated chitosan membranes compared to untreated controls.
Conclusions:
- Plasma surface modification is an effective strategy to enhance chitosan membrane biocompatibility.
- Improved cell adhesion and proliferation indicate enhanced biomaterial performance.
- Plasma-treated chitosan membranes show potential for advanced biomedical applications.

