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Light-Responsive Liquid Crystal Surface Topographies for Dynamic Stimulation of Cells.

Ruth M C Verbroekken1,2, Oksana K Savchak2,3, Thom F J Alofs1

  • 1Stimuli-Responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands.

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Summary

This study introduces light-responsive polymer films that create dynamic surface topographies, significantly altering cell behavior and mechanosensitive signaling. These dynamic cues enhance cell responses, offering new ways to control cells in vitro.

Keywords:
fibroblast cellslight-responsive liquid crystal polymersmateriobiologymechanical cell-stimulationreconfigurable dynamic topographiessurface actuation

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Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Cell Biology
  • Surface Engineering

Background:

  • Biological surfaces have dynamic topographies crucial for cell behavior.
  • Current research on biomechanics often overlooks dynamic cellular environments, focusing on static surfaces.
  • Understanding dynamic surface topography effects is vital for mimicking in vivo conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of dynamic, micrometer-scale surface topographies on cell behavior under physiological conditions.
  • To develop and utilize light-responsive liquid crystal polymer films for controlled topographical changes.
  • To quantify cellular responses to dynamic surface topographies, including mechanosensitive signaling and focal adhesion distribution.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of light-responsive liquid crystal polymer films capable of dynamic topographical changes.
  • Application of controlled topographical stimuli (pillars and grooves) at 37 °C in water.
  • Measurement of yes-associated protein (YAP) translocation and focal adhesion distribution in response to topography.
  • Assessment of cellular responses to repeated cycles of topographical changes.

Main Results:

  • Dynamic topographies significantly increased mechanosensitive cell signaling, with up to 2-fold higher YAP nuclear translocation.
  • Grooved topographies led to increased mechanical activation and cell alignment compared to pillared topographies.
  • Subsequent changes in surface topography amplified cellular responses, showing a 3-fold increase in YAP translocation and 5-fold increase in vinculin heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

  • Light-responsive liquid crystal polymer films can generate dynamic biomechanical cues to modulate cell behavior.
  • Dynamic surface topographies offer a powerful tool for steering and controlling cellular responses in vitro.
  • This technology holds potential for advanced tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.