Berlin 2024 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 26: Biopolymers, Biomaterials and Bioinspired Functional Materials (joint session CPP/BP)

BP 26.9: Talk

Thursday, March 21, 2024, 12:00–12:15, H 0111

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, Darmstadt 64289, Germany

In human physiology, endothelial cells (ECs) form a lining inside blood vessels, which is essential for cell maturation and the development of capillary vessels. However, replicating this process ex vivo, especially ensuring the adequate adherence of ECs to the surfaces of 3D-printed artificial networks, presents a significant challenge. In this study, we focus on designing an effective mediator between the inner wall of the artificial network and endothelial cells that would remain mechanically stable against the flow of the nutrient solutions for cell maturation. Our strategy involves the use of Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) microgels (MGs) as mediators for cell culturing surfaces. To enhance their attachment, we synthesized charged MGs and tested their adhesion on plasma-treated silicon (Si), glass, and 3D-printed polymeric surfaces. The MG particles were characterized based on their Zeta potential and hydrodynamic radius. To achieve rapid deposition, we employed spin coating to form a thin polymeric layer of MG particles on the substrates. We conducted atomic force microscopy (AFM) analyses and observed stable adhesion of MG particles on flat surfaces, even after water washing and exposure to mechanical stress. Moreover, we observed that these MG coatings yield superior endothelial cell adhesion and spreading compared to non-coated substrates.

Keywords: Microgels; Functional Surface; Surface Chemistry; Endothelial Cells; Vascular Networks