SKM 2023 – scientific programme

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CPP: Fachverband Chemische Physik und Polymerphysik

CPP 35: Poster Session II

CPP 35.5: Poster

Wednesday, March 29, 2023, 11:00–13:00, P1

Microgels for Enhanced Adsorption of Endothelial Cells on Artificial Networks — •Souraj Mandal and Regine von Klitzing — Soft Matter at Interfaces, Department of Physics, Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany

Artificial 3-D supply networks can be applied as a transport system for oxygen and nutrients, which can promote vascularization for organ-like 3-D cell culture systems. In the human body, the inner surface of such networks (blood vessels) is lined with a layer of endothelial cells and they play a vital role in cell maturation and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels). So far, the attachment of endothelial cells on the surface of the artificial network system is not sufficient. Addressing this problem, this study focuses on designing a suitable mediator between the inner walls of the artificial network and endothelial cells, which should be mechanically stable to flows of nutrient solutions. Here we employ Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm) microgel (MG) as cell-culturing surface mediator. However, the main challenges are (i) ensuring the firm adhesion of MGs on the surface of the artificial polymeric network, and (ii) seeding endothelial cells on top of them. As a primary approach, we synthesized positively charged MGs to attach them on plasma-treated silicon (Si) and 3-D printed polymeric surfaces. MG particles are characterized by their Zeta potential and hydrodynamic radius. As a rapid fabrication technique, spin coating was used to deposit a thin polymeric layer of MG particles on the substrates. AFM analyses showed a stable adhesion of MG particles on the flat surfaces even upon water washing and mechanical stress.