CHED 721 |
| In order to create implants that can function within a cellular environment, it is important to understand cell-material interactions. Recent model studies performed "in vitro" using artificial materials as growth substrates have shown that cell function can be altered by varying the density and spatial arrangement of the integrin binding ligands on the polymeric materials. Attempts have been made to also understand how the mechanical properties will regulate cell response but a complete understanding is lacking. Our research seeks to decouple the effects of mechanical and adhesive properties of polymers. There are two main goals for our project. First, we will prepare a library of polymers that vary in elasticity and secondly, modify the surface of each member of the library with the same adhesive ligands such that their cellular adhesivity remains constant. In this way, we will create a unique research tool: By growing cells on this library of polymers and observing their cellular responses such as attachment, growth, migration or differentiation, we will decouple the effects of polymer elasticity and cellular adhesivity. We have synthesized a small library of methacrylate polymers within the preferred range of mechanical stiffness by AIBN-mediated radical polymerization. Subsequent surface modification with adhesive ligands showed preferential cell proliferation on these surfaces. Detailed studies of surfaces with varying stiffness and density of adhesive ligands are in progress. |
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Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Polymer Chemistry
11:00 AM-1:00 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster
Division of Chemical Education |