Modified Carbon Nanotubes Favor Fibroblast Growth by Tuning the Cell Membrane Potential

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cell Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are known to promote in vitro cell growth, but mechanisms remain unclear.
• Investigating the role of electrostatic fields at cell-scaffold interfaces in influencing cell behavior.
• Focus on primary human fibroblasts cultured on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds with embedded multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs).

Purpose of the Study:

• To test the hypothesis that electrostatic fields from CNT-polymer scaffolds can enhance nonexcitable cell growth by modulating membrane potential.
• To evaluate the effect of functionalized MWCNTs within PLA electrospun fibers on fibroblast behavior and physiology.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms through experimental characterization and numerical simulations.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of electrospun PLA/MWCNT scaffolds with functionalized MWCNTs for improved dispersion.
• Biocompatibility assessment of PLA and PLA/MWCNT fiber samples.
• Characterization of fibroblast responses using scanning electron microscopy, immunocytochemistry, Rt-qPCR, and electrophysiology.
• Numerical simulations to model cell membrane potential changes.

Main Results:

• PLA/MWCNT scaffolds were biocompatible and demonstrated altered surface potential compared to pure PLA.
• Fibroblasts cultured on PLA/MWCNT scaffolds exhibited healthier states, including physiological spreading, attachment, and membrane potential (Vm).
• Electrical functionalization of the scaffold created a more suitable extracellular environment for fibroblast biofunctionality.
• Numerical simulations confirmed substrate-dependent effects on cell membrane potential.

Conclusions:

• Functionalized MWCNTs integrated into PLA scaffolds significantly improve fibroblast health and function.
• Electrostatic fields generated at the PLA/MWCNT interface play a crucial role in modulating fibroblast membrane potential and promoting growth.
• This research highlights the potential of engineered nanomaterial scaffolds for enhancing nonexcitable cell behavior in regenerative medicine applications.