Topography-driven alterations in endothelial cell phenotype and contact guidance

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Endothelial cell (EC) phenotype modulation by topography is key for tissue engineering.
• Topographical cues influence cell behavior, guiding the design of novel biomedical tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell (EC) response to topographical gradients.
• To evaluate vascular-like network formation and alignment on nano to microsized topographies.

Main Methods:

• Culturing ECs on directional topographical gradients (nano to micro).
• Microscopic evaluation of cell network formation and alignment.
• Live imaging of ECs on mixed topographies with and without fibronectin or ASC coatings.

Main Results:

• ECs formed unstable vascular-like networks on smaller topographies and flat surfaces, aggregating in these areas.
• ECs aligned on larger topographies.
• ASC coatings sustained network formation on topography, though networks remained influenced by the underlying topography.

Conclusions:

• Large, microsized topographies inhibit vascular network formation but not proliferation.
• Flat and nano/microsized topographies support early network formation.
• ASC instructive layers can stabilize EC vascular networks, offering potential for tissue engineering.