Colonization by such reactive cell types may be an undesirable response to some types of CNS-based implants, especially for those that are intended to interact specifically with selected cell types, like neurons, as exemplified by microelectrodes and implants intended to promote the regeneration of neurons. To address this matter we have focused our efforts on generating surfaces that resist colonization by non-target cells, and surfaces that specifically target specific behaviors of selected cell types. For example, through the use of protein-resistant coating technology, it is possible to generate material surfaces that resist the attachment and grow th of cells. Subsequent modifications to the technology have allowed us to use the protein-resistant coating to immobilize ligands for promoting desired cell responses with significantly higher degrees of bioactivity than conventional methods. Another important surface property influencing cell behaviors at interfaces is substrate topography.
Cells are exquisitely sensitive to differences in terrain, even on the nanometer scale.
Indeed, the development of highly organized tissues of the body is built upon and guided by both the organization and shape of cells and extracellular matrix elements. Borrowing from observations of developmental biologists, we have focused on developing biomaterials with surfaces that contain topographical features that mimic extracellular matrix fibrils and cellular processes, which may induce organization in developing or regenerating tissues. If there are any questions related to this site, please contact Xuejun Wen .