Cell and platelet adhesions on plasma glow discharge-treated poly(lactide-co-glycolide)

Surface treatment, such as plasma glow discharge treatment, onto poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) has been investigated to improve the cell-, tissue- and blood-compatibility. Surface-treated samples were characterized by measurement with a contact angle goniometer and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). The contact angles on the plasma-treated PLGA surfaces decreased with increasing plasma exposure time from 92 degrees to about 30 degrees, i.e., increased hydrophilicity. From the results of ESCA analysis of plasma-treated films, the incorporation of oxygen molecules into plasma onto the PLGA surface was observed. Cell adhesion and growth on plasma-treated PLGA surfaces were more active than on the control. Furthermore, the maximum adhesion and growth of cells in moderate hydrophilicity were investigated. Morphology of the adhered platelets on the plasma-treated PLGA surface showed less activity than on the control, and the number of adhered platelets on the plasma-exposed PLGA sample decreased with decreasing water contact angle. It seems that surface wettability of PLGA plays an important role in cell adhesion, spreading and growth, and platelet adhesion.