Data - The impact of ultrashort pulse laser structuring of metals on in-vitro cell adhesion of keratinocytes

The in-vitro data of the study - The impact of ultrashort pulse laser structuring of metals on in-vitro cell adhesion of keratinocytes - are published here. Background: Laser patterning is a suitable method for modifying the surface of biomaterials to improve cell adhesion, i.e., designing a new surface topography for external bone fixation pins or implants. Aim: The principle of this study was to observe how bio-inspired (deer antler) laser-induced nano microstructures affect skin cell adhesion and growth. Objective: The aim was to create pins that enable bacteria-tight skin adhesion to the biomaterial surface. Methods: For this purpose, typical fixator metals, steel, and titanium alloys were patterned with ultrashort laser pulses, resulting in periodic nano- and microstructures. In vitro studies with human HaCaT keratinocytes focused on cell adhesion, morphology, actin formation, and growth within 7 days. Results: The study showed that surface functionalization influences cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation. Microdimple clusters on polished bulk metals (DC20) do not affect cell viability. However, they must promote the initial adhesion and proliferation of HaCaTs. In contrast, additional nanostructuring with laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) promotes cell behavior. DC20 + LIPSS resulted in improved cell adhesion with a well-distributed cell morphology. Conclusion: The bioinspired structures thus showed an advantage in initial cell adhesion. Laser surface functionalization opens up new possibilities for patterning.