Fabrication of polymeric replicas of cell surfaces with nanoscale resolution

Langmuir. 2006 Sep 26;22(20):8266-70. doi: 10.1021/la0608563.

Abstract

We report an approach for fabricating biomimetic surface replicas of cells with nanoscale resolution. Fixed cells serve as a template for a two-stage replica molding process. Cast from the template, the impression replica contains a reproduction of cellular topographical features indented into its surface, and cast from the impression replica, the relief replica contains a copy of these features protruding from its surface. Various polymers and cells can be utilized, and scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and white light interferometry analyses confirm the replication of nanoscale features. These replicas are useful for investigating cellular function and for biomimetic tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomimetic Materials / chemistry*
  • Cell Line
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / chemistry*
  • Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / ultrastructure
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Rats
  • Schwann Cells / chemistry*
  • Schwann Cells / ultrastructure
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Polymers