Effect of cell-adhesive-molecule-coated poly(lactide- co-glycolide) film on the cellular behaviors of olfactory ensheathing cells and Schwann cells

The surface properties of polymeric devices that are used to repair damaged nervous tissue are a point to be considered for axon regeneration in the nervous system. In this study, we investigated the interaction of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) and Schwann cells (SCs) with poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) film surfaces coated with various cell-adhesive molecules. We used cell adhesives such as fibronectin, fibrinogen, laminin, vitronectin, poly(d-lysine), and poly(l-lysine) to coat PLGA film surfaces. We cultured 1 x 10⁴ cells/cm² (OECs or SCs) on coated or uncoated PLGA film surfaces, and then we examined the cell attachment and proliferation by cell count and scanning electron microscopy observation. In addition, we evaluated relative messenger RNA expression of neuronal cell-adhesion molecules by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cell count results revealed differences caused by initial cell adhesion related to protein adsorption on the PLGA surface. In addition, neurite outgrowth and the proliferation rate of OECs or SCs revealed differences according to the presence of serum in the medium. As a result, we recognized that the attachment and proliferation of OECs or SCs were affected by specific cell-adhesive molecules. In conclusion, the selection of optimal adhesive molecules is an important consideration for manufacturing nerve guidance and neural cell cultures for tissue-engineered nerve regeneration. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2008