Reduction of 3T3 fibroblast adhesion on SS316L by methyl-terminated SAMs

Inhibiting the non-specific adhesion of cells and proteins to biomaterials such as stents, catheters and guide wires is an important interfacial issue that needs to be addressed in order to reduce surface-related implant complications. Medical grade stainless steel 316L was used as a model system to address this issue. To alter the interfacial property of the implant, self-assembled monolayers of long chain phosphonic acids with –CH3, –COOH, and –OH tail groups were formed on the native oxide surface of medical grade stainless steel 316 L. The effect of varying the tail groups on 3T3 fibroblast adhesion was investigated. The methyl-terminated phosphonic acid significantly prevented cell adhesion however presentation of hydrophilic tail groups at the interface did not significantly reduce cell adhesion when compared to the control stainless steel 316L.