Poly(L-lactide) crystallization topography directs MC3T3-E1 cells response

Biomaterial surface topography significantly influences cellular form and function. Using poly(L-lactic acid) films with normal spherulites, banded spherulites, and amorphous surfaces as model substrates, we conducted a systematic assessment of the role for polymer crystallization induced surface morphologies on cell growth and contact guidance. Microscopy and image analysis showed that the MC3T3-E1 cells spread out in a random fashion on the amorphous substrate. At 24 h post-seeding, MC3T3-E1 cells on both types of spherulite surfaces were elongated and aligned along the spherulite radius direction. For the banded spherulite surface with radial stripes and coupling annular grooves, the cell orientation and cell nuclear localization were related to the grooves structure. With increasing time, this orientation preference was weaker. These results demonstrate that the patterning of polymer crystallization structure provide important signals for guiding cells to exhibit characteristic orientation and morphology especially in the early stages of regeneration.