Screening of Nanocomposite Scaffolds Arrays Using Superhydrophobic‐Wettable Micropatterns |
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Authors: | Álvaro J Leite Mariana B Oliveira Sofia G Caridade João F Mano |
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Affiliation: | 1. 3B's Research Group‐Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Avepark‐Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Barco, Guimar?es, Portugal;2. ICVS/3B's‐PT Government Associate Laboratory, Guimar?es, Portugal;3. Department of Chemistry, CICECO, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal |
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Abstract: | Platforms containing multiple arrays for high‐throughput screening are demanded in the development of biomaterial libraries. Here, an array platform for the combinatorial analysis of cellular interactions and 3D porous biomaterials is described. Using a novel method based on computer‐aided manufacturing, wettable regions are printed on superhydrophobic surfaces, generating isolated spots. This freestanding benchtop array is used as a tool to deposit naturally derived polymers, chitosan and hyaluronic acid, with bioactive glass nanoparticles (BGNPs) to obtain a scaffold matrix. The effect of fibronectin adsorption on the scaffolds is also tested. The biomimetic nanocomposite scaffolds are shown to be osteoconductive, non‐cytotoxic, promote cell adhesion, and regulate osteogenic commitment. The method proves to be suitable for screening of biomaterials in 3D cell cultures as it can recreate a multitude of combinations on a single platform and identify the optimal composition that drives to desired cell responses. The platforms are fully compatible with commercially routine cell culture labware and established characterization methods, allowing for a standard control and easy adaptability to the cell culture environment. This study shows the value of 3D structured array platforms to decode the combinatorial interactions at play in cell microenvironments. |
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Keywords: | array‐based screening combinatorial biomaterials screening flat platforms high‐throughput screening nanocomposites nondestructive image analysis |
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