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Laser Direct Writing of Dual-Scale 3D Structures for Cell Repelling at High Cellular Density

Summary

Researchers used advanced laser technology to create tiny mushroom-shaped structures decorated with nano-sized fingerprint patterns on surfaces. These structures were inspired by spider webs and designed to repel cells from sticking to the surface. Even when many cells were present, these specially designed surfaces kept about 60% of the cells from adhering, which could be useful for medical devices, sensors, and antibacterial coatings.

Background

Cell adhesion to material surfaces is influenced by both chemical and topographical properties. Dual-scale structures with microstructures decorated with nanopatterns have shown promise for controlling cell attachment. Previous laser-assisted fabrication methods relied on stochastic processes limiting control over structure geometry.

Objective

To fabricate reproducible dual-scale 3D structures inspired by spider calamistrum with fully controllable geometry using Laser Direct Writing via Two-Photon Polymerization, and to optimize their design and laser parameters for cell-repellent properties at high cellular densities.

Results

Optimized NMP structures with fingerprint-like nanofeatures (200-300 nm periodicity and height) achieved approximately 60% reduction in cell adhesion compared to flat glass surfaces, even at five times higher cellular density than previous studies. Laser power was the most critical parameter, with 13.25 mW producing optimal structure stability and nanopattern definition.

Conclusion

Laser Direct Writing via Two-Photon Polymerization successfully created dual-scale 3D cell-repellent structures with fully controllable and reproducible topography, demonstrating potential applications in biosensors, implantable devices, and antibacterial surfaces even under high cellular density conditions.
  • Published in:International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/ijms23063247, PMID: 35328668
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