Plasma-Treated Collagen Functionalized With Chondroitin Sulfate as Bioactive and Nanostructured Extracellular Matrix Mimics

Abstract

Aim: Cell microenvironment contains a plethora of information that influences cell modulation. Indeed, the extracellular matrix plays a central role in tissue development. Reproducing the cell–extracellular matrix crosstalk able to recapitulate both physical and biochemical signals is crucial to obtain functional tissue models or regenerative strategies. Materials & methods: Here, a combined method is proposed to easily functionalize collagen surface films, tailoring morphological properties. Oxygen nonthermal plasma treatment and glyco-conjugation with chondroitin sulfate are used to modify surface properties. Results: It results in higher adhesion, proliferation and morphological organization of U87 glioblastoma cells. Conclusion: Our finding suggests new promising strategies for the development of collagen-based biomaterials, which can be employed for advanced in vitro models.

Keywords: :

• biomaterials
• chondroitin sulfate
• collagen
• ECM mimic
• glycans
• plasma

Financial disclosure

This work was funded by the National Plan for NRRP Complementary Investments (PNC, established with the decree-law 6 May 2021, No. 59, converted by law No. 101 of 2021) in the call for the funding of research initiatives for technologies and innovative trajectories in the health and care sectors (Directorial Decree no. 931 of 06-06-2022) – project no. PNC0000003 – Advanced Technologies for Human-centred Medicine (ANTHEM). This work reflects only the authors' views and opinions: neither the Ministry for University and Research nor the European Commission can be considered responsible for them. The authors also received financial support from Ministero della Salute, Ricerca Finalizzata RF-2021-12371959 ‘Tackling immunomodulatory properties of stromal cells to improve therapeutic strategies in lung cancer’ (30.4.2023-29.4.2026), and MUR PRIN 2022, 2022MY7AZT Dynamic multifunctional hydrogels for glioblastoma therapy (DINGO). The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

Competing interests disclosure

The authors have no competing interests or relevant affiliations with any organization or entity with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Writing disclosure

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.