Current approaches for modulation of the nanoscale interface in the regulation of cell behavior

Abstract

Regulation of cell behavior in response to nanoscale features has been the focus of much research in recent years and the successful generation of nanoscale features capable of mimicking the natural nanoscale interface has been of great interest in the field of biomaterials research. In this review, we discuss relevant nanofabrication techniques and how they are combined with bioengineering applications to mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) and create valuable nanoscale interfaces.

Keywords: Biomaterials; Extracellular matrix; Interface; Nanofabrication.

Figure 1

Integrin adhesion receptors link the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the actin cytoskeleton. The incorporation of ECM proteins and growth factors into biomaterials, allows for cells to respond to such materials via integrin binding. Following integrin-based binding of cells to the materials, signals can be transmitted to the nucleus via actin filaments.

Figure 2

The use of molecular self-assembly and electrospinning in the generation of ECM-mimetic biomaterials. Molecular self-assembly involves the spontaneous self-assembly of protein structures and is often used in the generation of nanoscale ECM-mimetic biomaterials. Similarly, electrospinning is used to generate fibrous nanoscale structures, also capable of mimicking the nature of the natural ECM.

Figure 3

Integrins presented in synergy with growth factors. (A) Structure of fibronectin, showing location of major binding sites. The integrin binding region of FN is FNIII9-10, which lies adjacent to FNIII12-14, the growth factor binding region. (B) AFM images (phase magnitude) of FN adsorbed on material substrates. The scale bar is 0.5 μm. FN adsorption results in a self-assembled FN nanonetwork at the material interface of PEA but not PMA, this promotes synergystic signaling through integrins and growth factor receptors. (Reprinted (adapted) with permission from Copyright 2015 American Chemical Society.)