# Physical and Chemical Modifications of Polymeric Surfaces to Enhance Epithelial Cell Adhesion

## TL;DR

This paper explores how modifying polymer surfaces can improve epithelial cell adhesion for better tissue engineering outcomes.

## Contribution

A new surface treatment method is introduced to enhance epithelial cell adhesion on biocompatible polymer scaffolds.

## Key findings

- A surface treatment method was developed to alter polymer surface charge and improve cell adhesion.
- The method is compatible with two-photon polymerization for fabricating cell scaffolds.
- The treatment enhances cell functions relevant to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

## Abstract

In tissue engineering, 3D scaffolds and chemical treatments
are
often used to provide a cell-friendly surface that improves cell adhesion
and tissue growth. Indeed, cell adhesion can be regulated through
physicochemical modifications of the substrate surface, including
wettability, surface charge, and roughness. In this work, we present
the synthesis, characterization, and cytocompatibility analysis of
photoresins suitable for fabricating cell scaffolds via two-photon
polymerization. Furthermore, we demonstrate a simple surface treatment
method that promotes cell adhesion. This method alters the surface
charge of the polymer and enhances the adhesion of epithelial cells.
Our results indicate an efficient approach to modifying the surface
of biocompatible polymer scaffolds with the purpose of enhancing the
performance of cell functions that are suitable for tissue engineering
and regenerative medicine.