Programming cell fate on bio-functionalized silicon.
Controlling the growth of cells on the surface of silicon without an additive layer or topographical modification is unexplored. This research article delineates the discovery of unique properties of a bio-functionalized silicon substrate, programmed to repel or control cells, generated by ultrafast femtosecond pulse interaction with silicon. Remarkably, bio-functionalization in any shape or size without change in topology or morphology is observed indicating only sub-surface phase transformations. Material characterization reveals the presence of a unique mixture of phases of SiO2 and Si. Consequently, these variations in phase alter the physicochemical characteristics on the surface of silicon resulting in its bio-functionalization. The culture of mouse embryonic fibroblasts shows unique adhesion characteristics on these bio-functionalized silicon surfaces that include cell controlling, cell trapping, and cell shaping. Furthermore, the directionality of fibroblasts is restrained parallel to bio-functionalized zones as evidenced by changes in cytoskeleton. The controlling of proliferation, migration and adhesion of cells is attributed to unique phase bio-functionalization. This method presents considerable promise in a myriad of applications such as tissue engineering, MEMS, and lab-on-a-chip devices.
Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M5B 2K3. Electronic address: priyatha.premnath@ryerson.ca.
Priyatha
P
Premnath
Department of Aerospace Engineering, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M5B 2K3. Electronic address: tanbo@ryerson.ca.
Bo
B
Tan
Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, Canada M5B 2K3. Electronic address: venkat@ryerson.ca.
Krishnan
K
Venkatakrishnan
D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000648:ultrastructure; D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion / Q000187:drug effects; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D002460:Cell Line; D002465:Cell Movement / Q000187:drug effects; D049109:Cell Proliferation / Q000187:drug effects; D048430:Cell Shape / Q000187:drug effects; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D054018:Lasers, Excimer; D051379:Mice; D012825:Silicon / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D012822:Silicon Dioxide / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D013499:Surface Properties
D012822:Silicon Dioxide; D012825:Silicon
Cell repelling; Femtosecond laser; Fibroblasts; Phase transformation; Silicon