Selective Adhesion and Directional Migration of Endothelial Cells Guided by Cys-Ala-Gly Peptide Density Gradient on Antifouling Polymer Brushes

Abstract

Selective adhesion and directional migration of endothelial cells (ECs) on biomaterials is critical to realize the rapid endothelialization. In this study, a Cys-Ala-Gly (CAG) peptide density gradient is generated on homogeneous cell-resisting poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate-co-glycidyl methacrylate) brushes by immersing the brushes in a complementary gradient solution of CAG and competitive mercapto-terminated methoxyl poly(ethylene glycol). The adhesion and spreading of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) is impaired effectively on the gradient surface. About six folds of adherent ECs over SMCs are achieved at the position (10 mm) of highest CAG density on the gradient surface in a co-culture condition. Due to the gradient cues, ECs migrate fastest with the best directionality of 86.7% at the middle of the gradient, leading to the maximum net displacement as well.

Keywords: CAG peptide; cell-repelling surface; directional migration; gradient substrate; selective adhesion.