3D conducting polymer platforms for electrical control of protein conformation and cell functions

6^th International Conference and Exhibition on Biosensors & Bioelectronics

September 22-23, 2016 Phoenix, USA

Delphine Gourdon

Cornell University, USA

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Biosens Bioelectron

Abstract :

Fibronectin (Fn) is a prominent extracellular matrix glycoprotein that regulates cell adhesion, migration, differentiation and even pro-angiogenic secretion during processes such as embryonic development and tissue remodeling. Conformational changes of Fn are critically important in guiding these cell functions and have been linked to pathologies ranging from fibrosis to cancer. Fabrication of novel three dimensional (3D) macroporous scaffolds made from poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) :poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) via an ice-templating method is reported. These scaffolds offer tunable pore size and morphology and are electrochemically active. When applying a potential, the scaffolds uptake ions that generate reversible changes in electronic conductivity through their entire volumes, which in turn enable precise control over adsorbed protein (especially Fn) conformation, as assessed by fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Moreover, these scaffolds support the growth of mouse fibroblasts for seven days and show electrical control over both cell adhesion and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor, a crucial signaling protein involved in angiogenesis (vascularization). Collectively, our data show that we have achieved physiologically-relevant 3D platforms with precise control of cell adhesion and pro-angiogenic secretion over large volumes and long cell culture times. As such, these platforms represent a new tool for biological research with many potential applications in basic research, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.

Biography :

Email: dgourdon@gmail.com