Fibroblast cell behavior on chemically functionalized carbon nanomaterials

This paper describes the interaction of 3T3 fibroblast cells with chemically functionalized carbon nanomaterial substrates. Multiwall carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers were functionalized using acid treatment. A more hydrophilic surface was obtained by adding functional groups which are defects at the ends of the multi-walled carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers. 3T3 fibroblast cells were cultured on both as-grown and functionalized carbon nanomaterials on a glass slide. Visual differential interference contrast (DIC) images and fluorescent images of stained α, β tubulin showed the effectiveness of the functionalized nanomaterials as substrate materials. Good adhesion of the 3T3 fibroblast cells to the functionalized nanomaterials was verified and indicates that nanomaterials have potential for tissue scaffold development. No significant toxic effects of the nanomaterials on the 3T3 cells were observed. Possible explanations of why cells grow on nanomaterials are given.