Effect of an avidin–biotin binding system on chondrocyte adhesion, growth and gene expression

Cell adhesion to synthetic biomaterials is a prerequisite for anchorage cell culture and tissue engineering. The current study investigated utilization of an avidin–biotin binding system in enhancing chondrocyte adhesion to tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS). Biotinylated chondrocytes adhered to avidin-coated TCPS more quickly than untreated chondrocytes to bare TCPS. Also the avidin–biotin binding system enhanced cell initial spreading. However, the effects were only transient. The growth of biotinylated chondrocytes was first decreased during the first 3 days but increased afterwards. The progeny of biotinylated chondrocytes still maintained the ability in expressing cartilage extracellular matrix proteins such as type II collagen, type IX collagen and aggrecan. These results show potential for the application of the avidin–biotin binding system to cell culture and tissue engineering.