Control of cellular activity of fibroblasts on size-tuned fibrous hydroxyapatite nanocrystals

We controlled the performance of L929 mouse fibroblasts using various hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocrystals, such as nanofibers, nanoneedles, and nanosheets, to better understand the effects of size and shape of the HA nanocrystals on the cells. The cellular activity on nanofibers with a diameter of 50–100 nm was significantly enhanced relative to that on a flat HA surface because large amounts of the proteins needed for adhesion and proliferation could be stored in the substrate. On the other hand, initial adhesion and subsequent proliferation were inhibited on surfaces consisting of fine nanoneedles and nanosheets with a diameter/thickness of less than 30 nm due to the limited area available for the formation of focal adhesions. These facts indicate that fibroblast activity is highly sensitive to the surface topography. Therefore, size tuning of the nanoscale units composing the substrate is essential to enhance cellular performance.