Micro-stamped ECM proteins enhance endothelial cell adhesion and directed growth

Our goal was to evaluate microvascular endothelial cell growth on hydrophilic glass surfaces micro-stamped with extracellular matrix proteins (ECM). A combination of photo-and soft-lithography was used to fabricate microstamps. We hypothesized that by day 3, human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (hDMECs) would have higher viability and density on the patterned matrices vs. on bare glass. Also, our preferential elongated morphology would be heightened on the stamped matrix. By day 3, we saw a four-fold increase in density on the stamped proteins. Viability was independent of the ECM type (fibronectin, laminin, collagen I and IV). Endothelial cell morphology was preferentially elongated on each ECM type, more so than on bare glass. This demonstrates the ability to concentrate the growth of endothelial cells within regions of microstamped ECM proteins.