Targeted cellular adhesion at biomaterial interfaces

The interface of biomaterials must be carefully designed to elicit and eliminate specific responses when placed in contact with the body. The interaction of cells with the surfaces of biomaterials is a complex phenomenon that depends on a large number of variables. To design novel biomaterials that possess the desired characteristics, materials scientists and engineers rely heavily upon information provided by molecular biologists. Information regarding cell receptor—ligand interactions is used to understand the role of cellular adhesion in the natural environment so that synthetic biomaterials may be developed successfully. The production of new synthetic materials, understanding how native proteins mediate cellular adhesion with these materials, molecularly engineering surfaces with controlled spatial patterns for optimal responses, evaluation of mechanical properties, and analyzing bioadhesion and surface properties of these materials are topics that must be addressed when discussing targeted cellular adhesion at biomaterial surfaces.