Spatial regulation and surface chemistry control of monocyte/macrophage adhesion and foreign body giant cell formation by photochemically micropatterned surfaces

Mass Spectrometry, Structural Analysis, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Photo-Cross-Linked Human Albumin Hydrogels

Albumin-based hydrogels offer unique benefits such as biodegradability and high binding affinity to various biomolecules, which make them suitable candidates for biomedical applications. Here, we report a non-immunogenic photocurable human serum-based (HSA) hydrogel synthesized by methacryloylation of human serum albumin by methacrylic anhydride (MAA). We used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, as well as size exclusion chromatography to evaluate the extent of modification, hydrolytic and enzymatic degradation of methacrylated albumin macromer and its cross-linked hydrogels. The impacts of methacryloylation and cross-linking on alteration of inflammatory response and toxicity were evaluated in vitro using brain-derived HMC3 macrophages and Ex-Ovo chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Results revealed that the lysines in HSA were the primary targets reacting with MAA, though modification of cysteine, threonine, serine, and tyrosine, with MAA was also confirmed. Both methacrylated HSA and its derived hydrogels were nontoxic and did not induce inflammatory pathways, while significantly reducing macrophage adhesion to the hydrogels; one of the key steps in the process of foreign body reaction to biomaterials. Cytokine and growth factor analysis showed that albumin-based hydrogels demonstrated anti-inflammatory response modulating cellular events in HMC3 macrophages. Ex-Ovo results also confirmed the biocompatibility of HSA macromer and hydrogels along with slight angiogenesis-modulating effects. Photocurable albumin hydrogels may be used as a non-immunogenic platform for various biomedical applications including passivation coatings.

Macrophages, the main marker in biocompatibility evaluation of new hydrogels after subcutaneous implantation in rats

Biocompatibility of materials is one of the most important conditions for their successful application in tissue regeneration and repair. Cell-surface interactions stimulate adhesion and activation of macrophages whose acquaintance can assist in designing novel biomaterials that promote favorable macrophage-biomaterial surface interactions for clinical application. This study is designed to determine the distribution and number of macrophages as a means of biocompatibility evaluation of two newly synthesized materials [silver/poly(vinyl alcohol) (Ag/PVA) and silver/poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene (Ag/PVA/Gr) nanocomposite hydrogels] in vivo, with approval of the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade. Macrophages and giant cells were analyzed in tissue sections stained by routine H&E and immunohistochemical methods (CD68⁺). Statistical relevance was determined in the statistical software package SPSS 20 (IBM corp). The results of the study in terms of the number of giant cells localized around the implant showed that their number was highest on the seventh postoperative day (p.o.d.) in the group implanted with Ag/PVA hydrogels, and on the 30th p.o.d. in the group implanted with Ag/PVA/Gr. Interestingly, the number of macrophages measured in the capsular and pericapsular space was highest in the group implanted with the commercial Suprasorb^© material. The increased macrophage number, registered around the Ag/PVA/Gr implant on 60th p.o.d. indicates that the addition of graphene can, in a specific way, modulate different biological responses of tissues in the process of wound healing, regeneration, and integration.

Growing a backbone - functional biomaterials and structures for intervertebral disc (IVD) repair and regeneration: challenges, innovations, and future directions

Back pain and associated maladies can account for an immense amount of healthcare cost and loss of productivity in the workplace. In particular, spine related injuries in the US affect upwards of 5.7 million people each year. The degenerative disc disease treatment almost always arises due to a clinical presentation of pain and/or discomfort. Preferred conservative treatment modalities include the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, chiropractic work, and dietary supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin. Artificial disc replacement, also known as total disc replacement, is a treatment alternative to spinal fusion. The goal of artificial disc prostheses is to replicate the normal biomechanics of the spine segment, thereby preventing further damage to neighboring sections. Artificial functional disc replacement through permanent metal and polymer-based components continues to evolve, but is far from recapitulating native disc structure and function, and suffers from the risk of unsuccessful tissue integration and device failure. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine strategies combine novel material structures, bioactive factors and stem cells alone or in combination to repair and regenerate the IVD. These efforts are at very early stages and a more in-depth understanding of IVD metabolism and cellular environment will also lead to a clearer understanding of the native environment which the tissue engineering scaffold should mimic. The current review focusses on the strategies for a successful regenerative scaffold for IVD regeneration and the need for defining new materials, environments, and factors that are so finely tuned in the healthy human intervertebral disc in hopes of treating such a prevalent degenerative process.

Bio-Inspired Micropatterned Platforms Recapitulate 3D Physiological Morphologies of Bone and Dentinal Cells

Cells exhibit distinct 3D morphologies in vivo, and recapitulation of physiological cell morphologies in vitro is pivotal not only to elucidate many fundamental biological questions, but also to develop new approaches for tissue regeneration and drug screening. However, conventional cell culture methods in either a 2D petri dish or a 3D scaffold often lead to the loss of the physiological morphologies for many cells, such as bone cells (osteocytes) and dentinal cells (odontoblasts). Herein, a unique approach in developing a 3D extracellular matrix (ECM)-like micropatterned synthetic matrix as a physiologically relevant 3D platform is reported to recapitulate the morphologies of osteocytes and odontoblasts in vitro. The bio-inspired micropatterned matrix precisely mimics the hierarchic 3D nanofibrous tubular/canaliculi architecture as well as the compositions of the ECM of mineralized tissues, and is capable of controlling one single cell in a microisland of the matrix. Using this bio-inspired 3D platform, individual bone and dental stem cells are successfully manipulated to recapitulate the physiological morphologies of osteocytes and odontoblasts in vitro, respectively. This work provides an excellent platform for an in-depth understanding of cell-matrix interactions in 3D environments, paving the way for designing next-generation biomaterials for tissue regeneration.

Fabricating Optical-quality Glass Surfaces to Study Macrophage Fusion

Visualizing the formation of multinucleated giant cells (MGCs) from living specimens has been challenging due to the fact that most live imaging techniques require propagation of light through glass, but on glass macrophage fusion is a rare event. This protocol presents the fabrication of several optical-quality glass surfaces where adsorption of compounds containing long-chain hydrocarbons transforms glass into a fusogenic surface. First, preparation of clean glass surfaces as starting material for surface modification is described. Second, a method is provided for the adsorption of compounds containing long-chain hydrocarbons to convert non-fusogenic glass into a fusogenic substrate. Third, this protocol describes fabrication of surface micropatterns that promote a high degree of spatiotemporal control over MGC formation. Finally, fabricating glass bottom dishes is described. Examples of use of this in vitro cell system as a model to study macrophage fusion and MGC formation are shown.

In Vitro and in Vivo Hemocompatibility Evaluation of Graphite Coated Polyester Vascular Grafts

Attempts have been made in this study to prepare a homogeneous and stable coating of graphite on polyester vascular grafts (GPVG) using an electrophoresis method to evaluate thromboresistant and blood compatibility of GPVG in comparison to non-coated PVG and InterGard (collagen sealed PVG) as control.

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity measurement was carried out on all PVG types to evaluate platelet adhesion. To examine tissue reaction GPVG and non-coated sheets of knitted polyester fabric were implanted simultaneously in the dorsal flank of rats subcutaneously. The GPVG, non-coated and control were implanted in descending aorta as end-to-end or end-to-side implantation substitution in 25 sheep for 4–60 weeks.

Results showed that the graphite coating on polyester vascular grafts reduced the number of adherent platelets and prevent platelet activation and spreading on the surface in comparison with non-coated and control. Pathological investigation showed inflammatory reactions were totally resolved after 12 weeks and there was no difference in the tissue reaction between graphite coated, non-coated and control patches. All grafts remained patent and there was no significant difference in patency rate between these three types of PVG. We found that GPVG has no need for pre-clotting and it showed lower platelet aggregation, thinner capsule formation and lower calcification after 15 months. However, suturing of GPVG was more difficult in comparison with the other types.

Development of fusogenic glass surfaces that impart spatiotemporal control over macrophage fusion: Direct visualization of multinucleated giant cell formation

Implantation of synthetic material, including vascular grafts, pacemakers, etc. results in the foreign body reaction and the formation of multinucleated giant cells (MGCs) at the exterior surface of the implant. Despite the long-standing premise that fusion of mononucleated macrophages results in the formation of MGCs, to date, no published study has shown fusion in context with living specimens. This is due to the fact that optical-quality glass, which is required for the majority of live imaging techniques, does not promote macrophage fusion. Consequently, the morphological changes that macrophages undergo during fusion as well as the mechanisms that govern this process remain ill-defined. In this study, we serendipitously identified a highly fusogenic glass surface and discovered that the capacity to promote fusion was due to oleamide contamination. When adsorbed on glass, oleamide and other molecules that contain long-chain hydrocarbons promoted high levels of macrophage fusion. Adhesion, an essential step for macrophage fusion, was apparently mediated by Mac-1 integrin (CD11b/CD18, α_Mβ₂) as determined by single cell force spectroscopy and adhesion assays. Micropatterned glass further increased fusion and enabled a remarkable degree of spatiotemporal control over MGC formation. Using these surfaces, we reveal the kinetics that govern MGC formation in vitro. We anticipate that the spatiotemporal control afforded by these surfaces will expedite studies designed to identify the mechanism(s) of macrophage fusion and MGC formation with implication for the design of novel biomaterials.

Macrophages, Foreign Body Giant Cells and Their Response to Implantable Biomaterials

All biomaterials, when implanted in vivo, elicit cellular and tissue responses. These responses include the inflammatory and wound healing responses, foreign body reactions, and fibrous encapsulation of the implanted materials. Macrophages are myeloid immune cells that are tactically situated throughout the tissues, where they ingest and degrade dead cells and foreign materials in addition to orchestrating inflammatory processes. Macrophages and their fused morphologic variants, the multinucleated giant cells, which include the foreign body giant cells (FBGCs) are the dominant early responders to biomaterial implantation and remain at biomaterial-tissue interfaces for the lifetime of the device. An essential aspect of macrophage function in the body is to mediate degradation of bio-resorbable materials including bone through extracellular degradation and phagocytosis. Biomaterial surface properties play a crucial role in modulating the foreign body reaction in the first couple of weeks following implantation. The foreign body reaction may impact biocompatibility of implantation devices and may considerably impact short- and long-term success in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, necessitating a clear understanding of the foreign body reaction to different implantation materials. The focus of this review article is on the interactions of macrophages and foreign body giant cells with biomaterial surfaces, and the physical, chemical and morphological characteristics of biomaterial surfaces that play a role in regulating the foreign body response. Events in the foreign body response include protein adsorption, adhesion of monocytes/macrophages, fusion to form FBGCs, and the consequent modification of the biomaterial surface. The effect of physico-chemical cues on macrophages is not well known and there is a complex interplay between biomaterial properties and those that result from interactions with the local environment. By having a better understanding of the role of macrophages in the tissue healing processes, especially in events that follow biomaterial implantation, we can design novel biomaterials-based tissue-engineered constructs that elicit a favorable immune response upon implantation and perform for their intended applications.

Towards an in vitro model mimicking the foreign body response: tailoring the surface properties of biomaterials to modulate extracellular matrix

Despite various studies to minimize host reaction following a biomaterial implantation, an appealing strategy in regenerative medicine is to actively use such an immune response to trigger and control tissue regeneration. We have developed an in vitro model to modulate the host response by tuning biomaterials' surface properties through surface modifications techniques as a new strategy for tissue regeneration applications. Results showed tunable surface topography, roughness, wettability, and chemistry by varying treatment type and exposure, allowing for the first time to correlate the effect of these surface properties on cell attachment, morphology, strength and proliferation, as well as proinflammatory (IL-1β, IL-6) and antiflammatory cytokines (TGF-β1, IL-10) secreted in medium, and protein expression of collagen and elastin. Surface microstructuring, derived from chloroform partial etching, increased surface roughness and oxygen content. This resulted in enhanced cell adhesion, strength and proliferation as well as a balance of soluble factors for optimum collagen and elastin synthesis for tissue regeneration. By linking surface parameters to cell activity, we could determine the fate of the regenerated tissue to create successful soft tissue-engineered replacement.

Impact of 3-D printed PLA- and chitosan-based scaffolds on human monocyte/macrophage responses: unraveling the effect of 3-D structures on inflammation

Recent studies have pointed towards a decisive role of inflammation in triggering tissue repair and regeneration, while at the same time it is accepted that an exacerbated inflammatory response may lead to rejection of an implant. Within this context, understanding and having the capacity to regulate the inflammatory response elicited by 3-D scaffolds aimed for tissue regeneration is crucial. This work reports on the analysis of the cytokine profile of human monocytes/macrophages in contact with biodegradable 3-D scaffolds with different surface properties, architecture and controlled pore geometry, fabricated by 3-D printing technology. Fabrication processes were optimized to create four different 3-D platforms based on polylactic acid (PLA), PLA/calcium phosphate glass or chitosan. Cytokine secretion and cell morphology of human peripheral blood monocytes allowed to differentiate on the different matrices were analyzed. While all scaffolds supported monocyte/macrophage adhesion and stimulated cytokine production, striking differences between PLA-based and chitosan scaffolds were found, with chitosan eliciting increased secretion of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, while PLA-based scaffolds induced higher production of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12/23 and IL-10. Even though the material itself induced the biggest differences, the scaffold geometry also impacted on TNF-α and IL-12/23 production, with chitosan scaffolds having larger pores and wider angles leading to a higher secretion of these pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings strengthen the appropriateness of these 3-D platforms to study modulation of macrophage responses by specific parameters (chemistry, topography, scaffold architecture).

The effect of adsorbed fibronectin and osteopontin on macrophage adhesion and morphology on hydrophilic and hydrophobic model surfaces

Macrophages play a crucial role in the host response to biomaterials. Here we investigated the effect of adsorbed fibronectin (FN) and osteopontin (OPN), two important proteins for tissue repair, on macrophage adhesion and morphology. Since cell-biomaterial interactions are modulated via proteins adsorbed onto biomaterial surfaces, FN and OPN were adsorbed on model self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of alkanethiols on gold with different functional terminal groups (CH(3), OH and tetra(ethylene-glycol)). The initial interaction of inflammatory cells with a biomaterial is crucial for the ensuing phases of an inflammatory reaction. For this reason short-term cultures of primary human macrophages were performed. To account for the competitive adsorption of other proteins serum was added to the culture medium and the effect compared with serum-free medium cultures. In the presence of serum hydrophilic surfaces increased macrophage adhesion. In particular, FN induced a higher cell density, while OPN tended to decrease it. In serum-free medium cell adhesion was greater on hydrophobic surfaces, except for OPN-coated SAMs. Importantly, FN no longer enhanced macrophage adhesion, while OPN maintained its inhibitory effect. Cell polarization studies indicated that macrophage morphology variations induced by surface chemistry are overcome by pre-adsorbed OPN. Taken together our results show that in the presence of serum macrophage adhesion is promoted by FN hydrophilic surfaces, but impaired on OPN-coated surfaces. The effects of inhibited macrophage adhesion on macrophage fusion, and its relevance to the initial stages of the inflammatory response to biomaterials are discussed.

Modulation of cellular responses on engineered polyurethane implants

An in vivo rat cage implant system was used to study the effect of polyurethane surface chemistries on protein adsorption, macrophage adhesion, foreign-body giant cell formation (FBGCs), cellular apoptosis, and cytokine response. Polyurethanes with zwitterionic, anionic, and cationic chemistries were developed. The changes in the surface topography of the materials were determined using atomic force microscopy and the wettability by dynamic contact angle measurements. The in vitro protein adsorption studies revealed higher protein adsorption on cationic surfaces when compared with the base, while adsorption was significantly reduced on zwitterionic (**p < 0.01) and anionic (*p < 0.05) polyurethanes. Analysis of the exudates surrounding the materials revealed no differences between surfaces in the types or levels of cells present. Conversely, the proportion of adherent cells undergoing apoptosis, as determined by annexin V-FITC staining, increased significantly on anionic followed by zwitterionic surfaces (60 + 5.0 and 38 + 3.7%) when compared with the base. Additionally, zwitterionic and anionic substrates provided decreased rates of macrophage adhesion and fusion into FBGCs, whereas cationic surfaces promoted macrophage adhesion and FBGC formation. Visualization of the F-actin cytoskeleton by Alexa Fluor 488 phalloidin showed a significant delay in the cytoskeletal fusion response on zwitterionic and the anionic surfaces. The real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-10) and pro-wound healing cytokines (IL-4 and TGF-β) revealed differential cytokine responses. Cationic substrates that triggered stimulation of TNF-α and IL-4 were associated with more spread cells and higher FBGCs, whereas zwitterionic and anionic substrates that suppressed these cytokines levels were associated with less spread cells and few FBGCs. These studies have revealed that zwitterionic and anionic polyurethane surface chemistries can not only reduce nonspecific adhesion, fusion, and inflammatory events but also effectively promote cellular apoptosis in vivo.

Human macrophage adhesion on polysaccharide patterned surfaces

Despite many advances in designing biocompatible materials, inflammation remains a problem in medical devices and implants. We report two methods, microcontact printing and photodegradation by UV exposure, to pattern dextran and hyaluronic acid on glass, as well as demonstrate their utility for use as an anti-inflammatory biomaterial. The dextran/glass patterned surface can be further modified by grafting hyaluronic acid to glass, creating a binary polysaccharide patterned surface. We used two geometries, 90 µm squares and 22 µm stripes, to study the human macrophage (THP-1) adhesion on the patterned surfaces containing dextran, hyaluronic acid and the binary pattern. The results indicate that a majority of the macrophages are non-adherent on hyaluronic acid for three day culture. The ranking of surfaces according to macrophage adhesion is 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane-modified glass culture dish, dextranized surfaces, glass, and hyaluronic acid-modified surfaces. On the binary pattern of dextran and hyaluronic acid, macrophages preferentially attach and adhere to the dextranized area. Patterned surfaces provide an excellent platform for mimicking the complexity of the glycocalyx and investigating the interface between this surface and cells. This binary polysaccharide pattern also offers a new route to address anti-inflammatory potential of surface coatings on biomaterials in a high through-put fashion.

The topographical effect of electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds on the in vivo and in vitro foreign body reaction

Topographical cues play an important role in influencing cellular behavior and are considered as significant parameters to be controlled in tissue engineering applications. This work investigated the biocompatibility with regard to scaffold architecture and topographical effect of nanofibrous scaffolds on the in vivo and in vitro foreign body reaction. Random and aligned polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning technique, with diameters of 313 +/- 5 nm and 506 +/- 24 nm, respectively. Primary monocytes isolated from five human donors were cultured on PCL nanofibers, PCL film, and RGD-coated glass in vitro and cell density and morphology was evaluated at time points of day 0 (2 h), day 3, day 7, and day 10. The in vivo study was carried out by implanting PCL nanofibers and film scaffolds subcutaneously in rats to test the biocompatibility and host response at time points of week 1, week 2, and week 4. The in vitro studies revealed that the initial monocyte adhesion on the aligned fiber scaffold was significantly less (p < 0.001) when compared to the random fiber scaffold. The in vivo study showed that the thicknesses of fibrous capsule on fibrous scaffolds were 7.55 +/- 0.54 microm for aligned fibers and 4.13 +/- 0.31 microm for random fibers, which were significantly thinner than that of film implants 37.7 +/- 0.25 microm (p < 0.001). Additionally, cell infiltration was observed in aligned fibrous scaffolds both in vitro and in vivo, while on random fibers and films, distinct fibrous capsule boundaries were found on the surfaces. These results indicate that aligned electrospun nanofibers may serve as a promising scaffold for tissue engineering by minimizing host response, enhancing tissue-scaffold integration, and eliciting a thinner fibrous capsule.

Heparinized Micropatterned Surfaces for the Spatial Control of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells

In this study, a heparinized micropattern surface was prepared for the spatial control of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) that can differentiate into the desired tissues. Poly(styrene-co-vinylbenzyl N,N-diethyl-dithiocarbamate) (poly(ST-co-VBDC)) was synthesized as a photoreactive polymer; poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA) was polymerized on the poly(ST-co-VBDC) coated surface by UV irradiation. XPS spectra revealed the residual DC moieties on the PEGMA-grafted surface and the linear chain growth of PEGMA was monitored according to irradiation time. After chemical immobilization of heparin onto this PEGMA surface, surface micropatterning was carried out by additional photopolymerization of PEGMA using a photomask. After incubation for 4 hour, the hMSCs adhered to the heparinized surface, while the hydrophilic PEGMA surface demonstrated no cell adhesion even after basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) treatment. Good alignment of hMSCs on the pattern-surface was distinctly observed along micron-sized grooves due to the presence of both heparin and bFGF. This heparinized micropattern surface can be used to study in vitro hMSCs responses with various heparin-binding growth factors in tissue engineering fields as well as cellular array for the spatial control of hMSCs.

Assays on the influence of biomaterials on allogeneic rejection in tissue engineering

In tissue engineering, innate responses to biomaterial scaffolds will affect rejection of allogeneic cells. Biomaterials directly influence innate and adaptive immune cell adhesion, reactive oxygen intermediate production, cytokine secretion, nuclear factor-kappa B nuclear translocation, gene expression, and cell surface markers, all of which are likely to affect allogeneic rejection responses. A major goal in tissue engineering is to induce transplant tolerance, potentially by manipulating the biomaterial component. This review describes methods of measuring responses of macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells stimulated in vitro and in vivo and addresses key factors in assay development. Such tests include mixed leukocyte reactions, enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot assays, trans-vivo delayed-type hypersensitivity assays, and measurement of dendritic cell subsets and anti-donor antibodies; we propose extending these studies to tissue engineering.

Characterization of microglial attachment and cytokine release on biomaterials of differing surface chemistry

The clinical usefulness of central nervous system recording electrodes is currently limited by inconsistent long-term performance that is believed to be governed by the brain tissue response to the implant. In this study, we observed persistent macrophage biomarker expression at the biotic-abiotic interface surrounding implanted electrodes over a 12-week indwelling period. Using the cell type-specific marker CD11b to examine the cells attached to electrodes retrieved over the indwelling period, we found that most of the cells were activated microglia, the resident macrophage of brain tissue, indicating that the implanted electrodes behave as a persistent inflammatory stimulus. To determine the potential usefulness of different materials as coatings for implanted electrodes, we examined brain-derived microglial cell attachment and cytokine release on a number of medically relevant materials. Our results suggest that activated microglia attach to many of the materials used as external coatings for electrode manufacture, and likely serve as a source of pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic cytokines that may be responsible for reducing the biocompatibility of such implants. Our results also indicate that low protein-binding coatings may be useful in reducing microglial attachment upon implantation in brain tissue and may provide a means of improving electrode biocompatibility.

Reduced foreign body response at nitric oxide-releasing subcutaneous implants

The tissue response to nitric oxide (NO)-releasing subcutaneous implants is presented. Model implants were created by coating silicone elastomer with diazeniumdiolate-modified xerogel polymers capable of releasing NO. The host tissue response to such implants was evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 weeks and compared to that of uncoated silicone elastomer blanks and xerogel-coated controls incapable of releasing NO. Delivery of NO (approximately 1.35 micromol/cm2 of implant surface area) reduced foreign body collagen capsule ("scar tissue") thickness by >50% compared to uncoated silicone elastomer after 3 weeks. The chronic inflammatory response at the tissue/implant interface was also reduced by >30% at NO-releasing implants after 3 and 6 weeks. Additionally, CD-31 immunohistochemical staining revealed approximately 77% more blood vessels in proximity to NO-releasing implants after 1 week compared to controls. These findings suggest that conferring NO release to subcutaneous implants may promote effective device integration into healthy vascularized tissue, diminish foreign body capsule formation, and improve the performance of indwelling medical devices that require constant mass transport of analytes (e.g., implantable sensors).

Cellular and Molecular Dynamics in the Foreign Body Reaction

Intracorporally implanted materials, such as medical devices, will provoke the body to initiate an inflammatory reaction. This inflammatory reaction to implanted materials is known as the foreign body reaction (FBR) and is characterized by 3 distinct phases: onset, progression, and resolution. The FBR proceeds in the creation of a dynamic microenvironment that is spatially well organized. The progression of the FBR is regulated by soluble mediators, such as cytokines, chemokines, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are produced locally by tissue cells and infiltrated inflammatory cells. These soluble mediators orchestrate the cascade of cellular processes in the microenvironment that accompanies the FBR, consisting of cellular activation, angiogenesis, extravasation, migration, phagocytosis, and, finally, fibrosis. The nature of the FBR requires that the soluble mediators act in a spatial and temporally regulated manner as well. This regulation is well known for several inflammatory processes, but scarce knowledge exists about the intricate relationship between the FBR and the expression of soluble mediators. This review discusses the key processes during the initiation, progression, and resolution phase, with emphasis on the role of soluble mediators. Besides other sites of implantation, we focus on the subcutaneous implantation model.

Generation of cell adhesive substrates using peptide fluoralkyl surface modifiers

Previous studies reported on the delivery of vitamin E to the surface of a polycarbonate polyurethane (PCNU) to produce antioxidant surfaces, using a bioactive fluorinated surface modifer (BFSM). In the current report, a cell adhesive peptide sequence was coupled to the BFSM, and when blended into PCNU, generated a cell adhesive substrate. An NH2-GK*GRGD-CONH2 peptide sequence (referred to as RGD) with a dansyl label (*) on the lysine residue was coupled via the N-terminal to a BFSM precursor molecule. The resulting RGD BFSM was purified and the pmol peptide/mg BFSM value was assayed by amino acid quantification. The migration of the RGD BFSM in a PCNU blend was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. U937 macrophage-like cells and human monocytes were seeded onto the PCNU and blends of PCNU with non-bioactive fluorinated surface modifier or the RGD BFSM, in order to study the cell response. Both U937 cells and human monocytes adhered in greater numbers to the RGD BFSM substrate when compared to unmodified PCNU or the blend of PCNU with the non-bioactive fluorinated surface modifying macromolecule substrate. The study demonstrated a novel approach for the introduction of peptides onto the surface of polymers by modifying the surface from within the polymer as opposed to the use of cumbersome post-surface modification techniques. The generation of a peptide substrate points to the possibility of producing complex bioactive surfaces using various peptide BFSMs or pharmaceuticals simultaneously to manipulate cell functions.

Student Research Award in the Undergraduate Degree Candidate category, 30th Annual Meeting of the Society for Biomaterials, Memphis, Tennessee, April 27-30, 2005. Monocyte/lymphocyte interactions and the foreign body response: in vitro effects of biomaterial surface chemistry

To determine the effect of biomaterial surface chemistry on leukocyte interaction and activity at the material/tissue interface, human peripheral blood monocytes and lymphocytes were cultured on a series of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)-based biomaterials. Both monocytes and lymphocytes were isolated from whole human blood and separated by a nonadherent density centrifugation method before being plated on PET disks, surface modified by photograft copolymerization to yield hydrophobic, hydrophilic, anionic, and cationic surface properties. Monocytes and lymphocytes were cultured separately, to elicit baseline levels of activity, in direct coculture, to promote direct cell surface interactions, or in an indirect coculture system with both cell types separated by a -0.02-microm Transwell apparatus, to promote indirect paracrine interactions. Monocyte adhesion, macrophage fusion, and lymphocyte proliferation were measured on days 3, 7, 10, and 14 of culture. Results demonstrated that the presence of monocytes increased the activity of cocultured lymphocytes at the biomaterial/tissue interface, while the corresponding presence of lymphocytes increased the activation and fusion of indirectly cocultured monocytes. Biomaterial surface chemistry was also found to have a significant effect on monocyte adhesion and activation, and lymphocyte activity. Hydrophilic surfaces significantly inhibited both initial and longterm monocyte adhesion, and inhibited lymphocyte proliferation at longer time points. Anionic and cationic surfaces both exhibited mild inhibition of monocyte adhesion at prolonged time points and increased levels of macrophage fusion, while cationic surfaces decreased levels of lymphocyte proliferation and inhibited monocyte activity. These results elucidate the complex role of juxtacrine and paracrine interactions between monocytes and lymphocytes in the foreign body response, as well as promote the consideration of hydrophilic surfaces in future designs of implantable biomedical devices and prostheses.

Inhibition of macrophage development and foreign body giant cell formation by hydrophilic interpenetrating polymer network

The ability of monocytes to adhere, differentiate into macrophages, and fuse to form foreign body giant cells (FBGCs) on an implanted material surface is a critical step toward biomaterial degradation. Novel homogeneous surfaces were utilized to mediate adhesion. These surfaces consisted of N-(2 aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (EDS) and an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) of polyacrylamide and poly(ethylene glycol). These surfaces were designed to control cell adhesion and morphology and mediate cell differentiation, activation, metabolic ability, and apoptosis, resulting in a reduced or controlled inflammatory response. The EDS surface promotes cell adhesion and the IPN minimizes protein adsorption and subsequent cell adhesion. Both surfaces had similar cellular adhesion rates at each respective time point. However, the adherent macrophage morphology was similar at 2 h and day 3, and at days 7 and 10 adherent macrophages on the EDS surface formed FBGCs (46% at day 7 and 40% at day 10). Adherent cells on the IPN surface did not form FBGCs but instead formed monocyte aggregates (73% of adherent cells formed aggregates at day 7 and 63% at day 10). It is indicated that the two surface chemistries differentially controlled monocyte differentiation into macrophages and subsequent macrophage fusion to form FBGCs.

Adhesion Behavior of Peritoneal Cells on the Surface of Self-Assembled Triblock Copolymer Hydrogels

Adhesion behavior of cells to the surface of physical hydrogel membranes prepared by water-induced self-organization of precisely synthesized ABA-triblock copolymers comprised of poly(beta-benzyl L-aspartate) (PBLA) as A segment and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO, molecular weight = 20 000) as the B segment were investigated. The cast film from the methylenechloride solution of these copolymers swelled in water very rapidly forming hydrogels (100-400% water content of total weight). The content of PBLA affected the strength, the hydrophobicity, and the amount of water involved in the hydrogel surface. During the early stage of cultivation with murine peritoneal cells, cell adhesion on the hydrogels of PEO and PBLA with 18 (20K18) and 25 (20K25) monomeric units was not observed, while adhesion on the hydrogels of PEO and PBLA with 32 (20K32) and 55 (20K55) monomeric units was successful, suggesting more than 12 mol % in PBLA content is necessary for adhesion of these cells. Although cell spreading on the hydrogels of 20K18, 20K25, and 20K32 was not sufficient, the hydrogel of 20K55 allowed cell adhesion and spreading to be bipolar with leading edge whose raffling is active with pseudopodium and lamellipodium as well as PBLA homopolymer, suggesting active motility of these cells. Remarkably, prolonged incubation restored adhesiveness onto the films at 20K18 in contrast to adhesion with 20K25 despite low hydrophobicity. It is conceivable that adaptation of proteins and chemical changes to the surface during the culture period may participate in these phenomena. Mechanical properties and interaction between cell and these copolymer hydrogels could be controlled by composition of block segments, and optimization for implants could also be attainable.

Biomimetic materials and micropatterned structures using iniferters

In the preparation of biomimetic materials it is often required that efficient methods of polymerization be used, often methods that can lead to biomimetic polymers with relatively narrow molecular weight distribution. Living radical polymerization techniques have successfully been used to create low polydispersity linear polymers by free-radical polymerizations. Although this technique slows down the polymerization of multifunctional monomers, there is little effect on the network structure due to the high concentration of pendent double bonds. There are applications of the living radical polymerization in the synthesis of block copolymers. Essentially, the technique involves polymerizing a single type of monomer first to create a macromonomer that is capable of acting as an initiator because of the reversible bond between the polymer end group and the terminating group. This terminating group may be a thiol or a halogen and, under the right conditions, will dissociate to form radicals. A second monomer is then added to the system and the polymerization proceeds with the second monomer chemically attached to the polymer of the first monomer. We review methods of creating biomimetic block copolymers using the iniferter radical polymerization technique. The block copolymers would be used in the synthesis of micropatterned polymer films for use in biomaterials and other biomedical applications.

In vitro and in vivo hemocompatibility evaluation of graphite coated polyester vascular grafts

Attempts have been made in this study to prepare a homogeneous and stable coating of graphite on polyester vascular grafts (GPVG) using an electrophoresis method to evaluate thromboresistant and blood compatibility of GPVG in comparison to non-coated PVG and InterGard (collagen sealed PVG) as control.

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity measurement was carried out on all PVG types to evaluate platelet adhesion. To examine tissue reaction GPVG and non-coated sheets of knitted polyester fabric were implanted simultaneously in the dorsal flank of rats subcutaneously. The GPVG, non-coated and control were implanted in descending aorta as end-to-end or end-to-side implantation substitution in 25 sheep for 4–60 weeks.

Results showed that the graphite coating on polyester vascular grafts reduced the number of adherent platelets and prevent platelet activation and spreading on the surface in comparison with non-coated and control. Pathological investigation showed inflammatory reactions were totally resolved after 12 weeks and there was no difference in the tissue reaction between graphite coated, non-coated and control patches. All grafts remained patent and there was no significant difference in patency rate between these three types of PVG. We found that GPVG has no need for pre-clotting and it showed lower platelet aggregation, thinner capsule formation and lower calcification after 15 months. However, suturing of GPVG was more difficult in comparison with the other types.

Effects of adsorbed proteins and surface chemistry on foreign body giant cell formation, tumor necrosis factor alpha release and procoagulant activity of monocytes

The adhesion and activation of monocytes and macrophages are thought to affect the foreign body response to implanted medical devices. However, these cells interact with devices indirectly, because of the prior adsorption of proteins. Therefore, we preadsorbed several "model" biomaterial surfaces with proteins and then measured foreign body giant cell (FBGC) formation, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) release, and procoagulant activity. The model surfaces were tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS), untreated polystyrene (PS), and Primaria, whereas the proteins used were albumin, fibronectin, fibrinogen, and immunoglobulin. FBGC formation, TNFalpha release, and procoagulant activity of monocytes were the highest for surfaces preadsorbed with IgG. FBGC formation was lower on surfaces with adsorbed fibrinogen and fibronectin than on uncoated surfaces. TNFalpha release and procoagulant activity of monocytes were similar on surface adsorbed with fibrinogen, fibronectin, or albumin. Monocyte activation was also affected by the surface chemistry of the substrates, because FBGC formation was the highest on PS and the lowest on TCPS. Monocyte procoagulant activity was the highest on Primaria. Adsorbed proteins and surface chemistry were found to have strong effects on FBGC formation, monocyte TNFalpha release, and procoagulant activity in vitro, providing support for the idea that these same variables could affect macrophage-mediated foreign body response to biomaterials in vivo.

Chemically patterned, metal oxide based surfaces produced by photolithographic techniques for studying protein- and cell-surface interactions I: Microfabrication and surface characterization

Chemical patterns on smooth wafer substrates comprising areas with two different metals have been produced by vacuum metal deposition and photolithographic techniques. The combination of metals has been chosen from the series titanium (Ti), aluminium (Al), vanadium (V) and niobium (Nb), producing patterns (dots and stripes with dimensions of 50, 100 and 150 micrometer) with one of the metals as the background and with the second metal (foreground pattern) deposited on the background metal. The structure and chemical composition of the patterned surfaces were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and imaging time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry. The surfaces proved to be geometrically well defined with the expected surface-chemical composition, i.e. a surface oxide (passive) film essentially composed of TiO(2),Al(2)O(3),V(2)O(5), or Nb(2)O(5). Ti/Ti patterned surfaces were produced as controls and found to show no chemical composition contrast. The surface roughness of the pattern was greater than that of the background by a factor of 2-3, but was still extremely smooth with Ra<2nm. The patterns serve as model surfaces for studying in vitro the behaviour of cells as well as the adsorption of serum proteins on different metal oxides, which will be reported in a companion paper. These surfaces can be used to compare and contrast the response of osteoblasts to Ti and other alloy components, such as Al, V, or Nb, which are used in load-bearing medical implants.

In vivo leukocyte cytokine mRNA responses to biomaterials are dependent on surface chemistry

An in vivo mouse cage implant system was used to determine whether leukocyte cytokine mRNA responses to implanted biomaterials were dependent on surface chemistry. Surfaces displaying various chemistries (hydrophobic, hydrophilic, anionic, and cationic) were placed into stainless steel cages and implanted subcutaneously. Semiquantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed that hydrophilic surfaces showed a decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and IL-8, and pro-wound healing cytokines, IL-10 and TGF-beta by adherent cells, and mRNA levels of the proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1beta, and the pro-wound healing cytokine IL-13 were decreased in surrounding, exudate cells. Cytokine responses by adherent and exudate cells to hydrophobic, anionic and cationic surfaces were similar and indicative of a strong inflammatory response at the earliest time point followed by a wound healing response at later time points. However, no differences in the types or levels of exudate cells for any of the surfaces or the empty cage at each of the respective time points were observed, indicating their respective biocompatibility. These studies identify hydrophilic surface chemistries as having significant effects on leukocyte cytokine responses in vivo by decreasing the expression of inflammatory and wound healing cytokines by inflammatory cells adherent to the biomaterial as well as present in the surrounding exudate.

Biomaterial adherent macrophage apoptosis is increased by hydrophilic and anionic substrates in vivo

An in vivo rat cage implant system was used to identify potential surface chemistries that prevent failure of implanted biomedical devices and prostheses by limiting monocyte adhesion and macrophage fusion into foreign-body giant cells while inducing adherent-macrophage apoptosis. Hydrophobic, hydrophilic, anionic, and cationic surfaces were used for implantation. Analysis of the exudate surrounding the materials revealed no differences between surfaces in the types or levels of cells present. Conversely, the proportion of adherent cells undergoing apoptosis was increased significantly on anionic and hydrophilic surfaces (46 +/- 3.7 and 57 +/- 5.0%, respectively) when compared with the polyethylene terephthalate base surface. Additionally, hydrophilic and anionic substrates provided decreased rates of monocyte/macrophage adhesion and fusion. These studies demonstrate that biomaterial-adherent cells undergo material-dependent apoptosis in vivo, rendering potentially harmful macrophages nonfunctional while the surrounding environment of the implant remains unaffected.

Biomaterial surface chemistry dictates adherent monocyte/macrophage cytokine expression in vitro

An in vitro human monocyte culture system was used to determine whether adherent monocyte/macrophage cytokine production was influenced by material surface chemistry. A polyethylene terephthalate (PET) base surface was modified by photograft copolymerization to yield hydrophobic, hydrophilic, anionic and cationic surfaces. Freshly isolated human monocytes were cultured onto the surfaces for periods up to 10 days in the presence or absence of interleukin-4 (IL-4). Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis on days 3, 7 and 10 of cell culture revealed that interleukin-10 (IL-10) expression significantly increased in cells adherent to the hydrophilic and anionic surfaces but significantly decreased in the cationic surface adherent monocytes/macrophages. Conversely, interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression was significantly decreased in cells adherent to the hydrophilic and anionic surfaces. Further analysis revealed that the hydrophilic and anionic surfaces inhibited monocyte adhesion and IL-4-mediated macrophage fusion into foreign body giant cells (FBGCs). Therefore, hydrophilic and anionic surfaces promote an anti-inflammatory type of response by dictating selective cytokine production by biomaterial adherent monocytes and macrophages. These studies contribute information necessary to enhance our understanding of biocompatibility to be used to improve the in vivo lifetime of implanted medical devices and prostheses.

Human macrophage adhesion on fibronectin: the role of substratum and intracellular signalling kinases

Fibronectin and Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)- and/or Pro-His-Ser-Arg-Asn (PHSRN)-containing oligopeptides were immobilized onto physicochemically distinct substrata: polyethyleneglycol-based networks or tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS). The role of selected signalling kinases in the adhesion of human primary blood-derived macrophages on these modified substrata was investigated. We demonstrated that the protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) or protein serine/threonine kinase (PSK) dependency and the PTK-PSK cross-talk compensation for macrophage adhesion varied dynamically with the substratum modification and the culture time. The inhibition of MAPK kinase (MAPKK) decreased macrophage adhesion on TCPS, whereas the inhibition of phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3 kinase) decreased macrophage adhesion on networks at 24 h. The PI3 kinase-protein kinase C (PKC)-MAPK cascade was involved in macrophage adhesion on fibronectin-preadsorbed TCPS or networks but not on fibronectin-grafted networks. This fibronectin-mediated adhesion signalling involved both RGD and PHSRN sequences in a form of G(3)RGDG(6)PHSRNG on TCPS but not on networks. Furthermore, G(3)RGDG(6)PHSRNG grafted onto networks evoked unique signalling in macrophage adhesion from that preadsorbed onto networks. Thus, macrophage adhesion and the role of selected signalling kinases were modulated by the substratum and the ligand conjugation method.

Polyamide 6 composite membranes: properties and in vitro biocompatibility evaluation

The aim of the present study was to develop polyamide 6 membrane blended with gelatin and chondroitin sulfate using the phase precipitation method and evaluate its in vitro biocompatibility. Morphology of membranes was studied by laser scanning confocal microscopy which allowed the nondestructive visualization of internal bulk morphology of membranes. Membranes exhibited porous morphology with pores spanning across the membrane width with interconnections at various depths. Membranes showed adequate mechanical properties with tensile strengths of 20.10 +/- 0.64 MPa, % strain of 3.01+/-0.07, and modulus of 1082.50+/-23.50 MPa. In vitro biocompatibility of membranes by direct contact test did not show degenerative effects on NIH3T3 cells and also its leach-out products (LOP), as determined by tetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red uptake (NRU) assay. Mouse peritoneal macrophage cultured in contact with membranes and PTFE control showed comparable expression of activation markers such as CD11b/CD18, CD45, CD14, and CD86 suggesting the membranes' non-activating nature. Membrane LOP did not induce excessive proliferation of mouse splenocytes suggesting its non-antigenic nature. Preliminary blood compatibility of membranes was observed with no detectable hemolysis in static incubation assay. Taken collectively, the present data demonstrate that polyamide 6 composite membranes are biocompatible and prospective candidates for tissue engineering applications.

Micron-scale positioning of features influences the rate of polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration

Microfabrication technology was used to create regular arrays of micron-size holes (2 microm x 2 microm x 210 nm) on fused quartz and photosensitive polyimide surfaces. The patterned surfaces, which possessed a basic structural element of a three-dimensional (3-D) network (i.e., spatially separated mechanical edges), were used as a model system for studying the effect of substrate microgeometry on neutrophil migration. The edge-to-edge spacing between features was systematically varied from 6 microm to 14 microm with an increment of 2 microm. In addition, collagen was used to coat the patterned quartz surfaces in an attempt to change the adhesive properties of the surfaces. A radial flow detachment assay revealed that cell adhesion was the strongest on the quartz surface (approximately 50% cell attached), whereas it was relatively weaker on polyimide and collagen-coated quartz (approximately 25% cell attached). Cell adhesion to each substrate was not affected either by the presence of holes or by the spacing between holes. A direct visualization assay showed that neutrophil migration on each patterned surface could be characterized as a persistent random walk; the dependence of the random motility coefficient (mu) as a function of spacing was biphasic with the optimal spacing at approximately 10 microm on each substrate. The presence of evenly distributed holes at the optimal spacing of 10 microm enhanced mu by a factor of 2 on polyimide, a factor of 2.5 on collagen-coated quartz, and a factor of 10 on uncoated quartz. The biphasic dependence on the mechanical edges of neutrophil migration on 2-D patterned substrate was strikingly similar to that previously observed during neutrophil migration within 3-D networks, suggesting that microfabricated materials provide relevant models of 3-D structures with precisely defined physical characteristics. In addition, our results demonstrate that the microgeometry of a substrate, when considered separately from adhesion, can play a significant role in cell migration.

Cell behavior on laser surface-modified polyethylene terephthalate in vitro

This work has been undertaken to study the cell behavior of L929 fibroblasts on the laser irradiated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) surface. To modify the surface properties of the PET, CO2 pulsed laser at the wavelength of 9.25 microm and KrF excimer laser at 248 nm with various number of pulses were used. Laser irradiation caused some changes in the chemical and physical properties of the laser-treated film surfaces, which were evaluated using different techniques. These changes may affect the cell adhesion and growth on the laser-treated PET. Therefore, cell attachment and spreading were investigated on the laser-treated PET in vitro. The data from in vitro assays showed the fibroblast cells were attached and proliferated extensively on the CO2 and KrF laser-treated films in comparison with the unmodified PET. The results obtained from the cell behavior studies revealed that surface morphology and wettability affected cell adhesion and spreading on the laser-treated PET.

Control of shape and size of vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro by plasma lithography

The ability to control the shape and size of cells is an important enabling technique for investigating influences of geometrical variables on cell physiology. Herein we present a micropatterning technique ("plasma lithography") that uses photolithography and plasma thin-film polymerization for the fabrication of cell culture substrates with a cell-adhesive pattern on a cell-repellent (non-fouling) background. The micron-level pattern was designed to isolate individual vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC) on areas with a projected area of between 25 and 3600 microm(2) in order to later study their response to cytokine stimulation in dependence of the cell size and shape as an indication for the phenotypic state of the cells. Polyethylene terephthalate substrates were first coated with a non-fouling plasma polymer of tetraglyme (tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether). In an organic lift-off process, we then fashioned square- and rectangular-shaped islands of a thin fluorocarbon plasma polymer film of approximately 12-nm thickness. Electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis and secondary ion mass spectroscopy were used to optimize the deposition conditions and characterize the resulting polymers. Secondary ion mass spectroscopy imaging was used to visualize the spatial distribution of the polymer components of the micropatterned surfaces. Rat vascular SMC were seeded onto the patterned substrates in serum-free medium to show that the substrates display the desired properties, and that cell shape can indeed be controlled. For long-term maintenance of these cells, the medium was augmented with 10% calf serum after 24 h in culture, and the medium was exchanged every 3 days. After 2 weeks, the cells were still confined to the areas of the adhesive pattern, and when one or more cells spanned more than one island, they did not attach to the intervening tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (tetraglyme) background. Spreading-restricted cells formed a well-ordered actin skeleton, which was most dense along the perimeter of the cells. The shape of the nucleus was also influenced by the pattern geometry. These properties make the patterned substrates suitable for investigating if the phenotypic reversion of SMC can be influenced by controlling the shape and size of SMC in vitro.

Micropatterning of biomedical polymer surfaces by novel UV polymerization techniques

The "living" radical polymerization with an iniferter was used to create micropatterned biomedical surfaces. Novel, photosensitive biomedical polymers were created by the incorporation of dithiocarbamate groups from iniferters. A second monomer layer was then irradiated onto the photosensitive polymer substrate created with the iniferter to form a copolymer. Patterns were created on the films by application of modified microfabrication-based photolithographic techniques. The technique was used to create patterns with depths from 5 to 80 microm. In addition, various polymers were incorporated, including polyethylene glycol methacrylates, styrene, and methacrylic acid, to synthesize regions with different physico-chemical properties. Applications include novel surfaces for biosensors and biomaterials for the selective adhesion of cells and proteins.

Influence of biomaterial surface chemistry on the apoptosis of adherent cells

A common component of the foreign-body response to implanted materials is the presence of adherent macrophages that fuse to form foreign-body giant cells (FBGCs). These multinucleated cells have been shown to concentrate the phagocytic and degradative properties of macrophages at the implant surface and are responsible for the damage and failure of the implant. Therefore, the modulation of the presence or actions of macrophages and FBGCs at the material-tissue interface is an extensive area of recent investigations. A possible mechanism to achieve this is through the induction of the apoptosis of adherent macrophages, which results in no inflammatory consequence. We hypothesize that the induction of the apoptosis of biomaterial adherent cells can be influenced by the chemistry of the surface of adhesion. Herein, we demonstrate that surfaces displaying hydrophilic and anionic chemistries induce apoptosis of adherent macrophages at a higher magnitude than hydrophobic or cationic surfaces. Additionally, the level of apoptosis for a given surface is inversely related to that surface's ability to promote the fusion of macrophages into FBGCs. This suggests that macrophages fuse into FBGCs to escape apoptosis.

Controlling human polymorphonuclear leukocytes motility using microfabrication technology

We describe a new approach for controlling cell motility on a material surface. Transparent, photosensitive polyimide materials were used to fabricate physical structures on glass; cell motility was then followed over time using optical microscopy. Arrays of pillars and holes with 2 micron square, 4-microm height (or depth) separated by 10 microm were successfully patterned using photolithography. Neutrophils attached and spread on the smooth glass surface and surfaces with pillars. In contrast, cells were rounded and did not adhere to either smooth polyimide film or films with holes. The migration of neutrophils was much faster on holes than on polyimide surface, but it was significantly slower on pillars than on glass. These results suggest that physical patterning may be an effective tool to manipulate cell migration in the design of biomaterials for tissue engineering.

Laboratory-scale mass production of a multi-micropatterned grafted surface with different polymer regions

In this article, we demonstrate laboratory-scale mass production of a regionally precise multi-micropatterned surface photo-graft-copolymerized with three water-soluble monomers based on the photochemistry of an iniferter, which means that it acts as an initiator, a transfer agent and a terminator, benzyl N, N-diethyldithiocarbamate. The surface was semi-automatically prepared using a combination of a custom-designed irradiation apparatus installed with a motor-controlled stage for a substrate and three photomasks with different line-patterned slits (number of slits 20, width 500 microm, length 10 mm), and carbon dioxide laser cutting apparatus. A particular region of poly(styrene-co-vinylbenzyl N,N-diethyldithiocarbamate) coated on a PET film was irradiated in a particular aqueous monomer solution while moving the irradiated portion stepwise after irradiation through each line of the photomask. Photo-graft-copolymerization was carried out sequentially with acrylic acid sodium salt (AANa), N-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]acrylamide methiodide (DMAPAAm), and acrylamide (AAm) using differently patterned photomasks. Characterization of surface elemental distribution by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and light microscopic visualization by dye staining revealed a microprocessed surface with 20 sets of micropatterns, each of which had three line regions grafted with three different polymers. The irradiation of a carbon dioxide laser manipulated via computer-aided design (CAD) software onto the microprocessed surface resulted in automatic circular cutting for each set of micropatterns to mass-produce multi-micropatterned substrates for the study of substrate-dependent endothelial cell responses.

Multinucleated giant cells

Recent studies directed toward developing a better understanding of the molecular and cellular biology basis of monocyte-derived multinucleated giant cell formation, function, and biologic activity are presented. In addition, HIV-1-infected T-lymphocyte syncytia and the significance of adhesion molecule/ligand interactions in the formation of these syncytia are described. Interleukin-4 or interleukin-13 induction of monocyte-macrophage fusion provides a model for foreign body giant cell formation. On the other hand, interferon-gamma induction of monocyte-macrophage fusion provides a model for Langhans' giant cell formation. Variations in monocyte-macrophage adhesion and fusion to form foreign body giant cells are provided by substrates with different surface chemistries. Recent advances in osteoclast biology have identified the role of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in regulating osteoclast bone resorption and receptor-ligand interactions and signal pathways for osteoclast activation. Although foreign body giant cells, Langhans' giant cells, and osteoclasts are derived from monocytes or monocyte progenitor cells, the ways in which they are formed, whether induced by cytokines, receptors, or biologic activity, are markedly different.