abstract
Platforms containing multiple arrays for high-throughput screening are demanded in the development of biomaterial libraries. Here, an array platform for the combinatorial analysis of cellular interactions and 3D porous biomaterials is described. Using a novel method based on computer-aided manufacturing, wettable regions are printed on superhydrophobic surfaces, generating isolated spots. This freestanding benchtop array is used as a tool to deposit naturally derived polymers, chitosan and hyaluronic acid, with bioactive glass nanoparticles (BGNPs) to obtain a scaffold matrix. The effect of fibronectin adsorption on the scaffolds is also tested. The biomimetic nanocomposite scaffolds are shown to be osteoconductive, non-cytotoxic, promote cell adhesion, and regulate osteogenic commitment. The method proves to be suitable for screening of biomaterials in 3D cell cultures as it can recreate a multitude of combinations on a single platform and identify the optimal composition that drives to desired cell responses. The platforms are fully compatible with commercially routine cell culture labware and established characterization methods, allowing for a standard control and easy adaptability to the cell culture environment. This study shows the value of 3D structured array platforms to decode the combinatorial interactions at play in cell microenvironments.
keywords
STEM-CELL FATE; TISSUE-ENGINEERING APPLICATIONS; GLASS-CERAMIC NANOPARTICLES; DYNAMIC-MECHANICAL ANALYSIS; IN-VITRO CHARACTERIZATION; HYALURONIC-ACID; BIOACTIVE GLASS; HIGH-THROUGHPUT; REGENERATIVE MEDICINE; COMPOSITE SCAFFOLDS
subject category
Chemistry; Science & Technology - Other Topics; Materials Science; Physics
authors
Leite, AJ; Oliveira, MB; Caridade, SG; Mano, JF
our authors
João Mano
Vice Director
Mariana Braga de Oliveira
Assistant Researcher
Sofia Caridade
Post-doc Fellowshipacknowledgements
This work was supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology Foundation (FCT) through the doctoral grant SFRH/BD/73174/2010 of A.J.L. and post-doctoral grants SFRH/BPD/111354/2015 of M.B.O. and SFRH/BPD/96797/2013 of S.G.C. The authors would like to thank Elsa Ribeiro for the support given in SEM and EDS analyses, Dr. Joana M. Silva for the cell culture and maintenance of SaOS-2 cell line, and Dr. Rosario Soares for the technical support given in XRD analyses.