Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
Construction of a Human Aorta Smooth Muscle Cell Organ-On-A-Chip Model for Recapitulating Biomechanical Strain in the Aortic Wall
Published on: July 6, 2022
Human coronary artery smooth muscle cell responses to bioactive polyelectrolyte multilayer interfaces
Robert G Newcomer1, Maroun D Moussallem, Thomas C S Keller
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular Biophysics, The Florida State University, 3501 Chemical Sciences Laboratory Building, 102 Varsity Way, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4390, USA.
Polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEMU) films influence human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (hCASMCs). Certain PEMU surfaces modulate hCASMC phenotype and cytoskeletal organization, suggesting potential for cardiovascular implant coatings.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (hCASMCs) shift from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype under stress.
- This phenotypic modulation is crucial in cardiovascular disease and restenosis.
- Developing biomaterials that control hCASMC behavior is vital for medical implants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEMU) films on hCASMC phenotype and cytoskeletal organization.
- To assess the potential of PEMU coatings for cardiovascular applications, such as coronary artery stents.
Main Methods:
- Culture of hCASMCs on various PEMU-coated surfaces (Nafion, PSS, PAA-co-PAEDAPS).
- Analysis of intracellular protein expression (HSP90, actin) and organization.
- Observation of cytoskeletal component patterns (vimentin).
- Stimulation with ionophore A23187 to assess cell contraction.
Main Results:
- Nafion and PSS terminated PEMU films altered protein expression and organization in hCASMCs.
- A PAA-co-PAEDAPS copolymer surface resisted cell attachment and suppressed cytoskeletal formation.
- Differential expression and localization of HSP90 and actin were observed.
- Vimentin displayed distinct cytoplasmic patterns.
- Nafion surfaces induced hCASMC contraction upon A23187 stimulation.
Conclusions:
- PEMU coatings directly impact hCASMC cytoskeletal organization and phenotype.
- Specific PEMU formulations can impede cell growth or induce phenotypic modulation.
- PEMU surfaces show promise as coatings for coronary artery stents and other medical devices.
