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A High-throughput Cell Microarray Platform for Correlative Analysis of Cell Differentiation and Traction Forces
Published on: March 1, 2017
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Peptide microarray patterning for controlling and monitoring cell growth
Edith Lin1, Adhirath Sikand1, Jessica Wickware1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G2, Canada.
Acta Biomaterialia
|January 26, 2016
Summary
Researchers developed a new method using DNA microarray printers to create peptide-based surfaces that control cell differentiation, like epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). This technique enables precise spatial control over cellular responses for biomaterial development and cell culture applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Surface Chemistry
Background:
- Cell fate is dictated by microenvironmental cues, including extracellular matrix (ECM) and growth factors.
- Immobilized cues offer precise spatial control over cell differentiation within a population.
- Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key differentiation process influenced by TGF-β and cell-surface interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-throughput methodology for producing peptide microarrays for cell culture.
- To create instructive biomaterials that spatially control cell differentiation via surface-bound ligands.
- To investigate the induction of EMT in mammary epithelial cells using peptide microarrays.
Main Methods:
- Repurposed a DNA microarray printing technique to generate peptide-terminated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs).
- Fabricated high-density peptide microarrays displaying TGF-β receptor (TGFβRI/II) and integrin-binding peptides.
- Utilized murine mammary gland (NMuMG) cells for long-term culture and phenotypic assays, including immunofluorescent staining for E-cadherin expression.
Main Results:
- Successfully produced peptide microarrays suitable for extended cell culture and microscopy.
- Demonstrated spatial control of EMT induction in NMuMG cells cultured on specific peptide areas.
- Observed growth arrest and decreased E-cadherin expression in cells on EMT-stimulating peptide surfaces.
Conclusions:
- The developed methodology simplifies the production of peptide microarrays for cell-based assays.
- This approach enables the screening of instructive biomaterials for controlling cell differentiation and receptor signaling.
- The technique is adaptable for various applications, including stem cell culture and studying asymmetric cell division.
