A Method for the Large-Scale Production of Nanotopographical Surfaces for Cellular Studies

The physical environment of cells impacts their behavior and plays a role in biological processes. Finding ways to mimic in vivo characteristics of cells’ physical surroundings can give a clearer picture of their response to natural textures. We developed a method for fabricating patterns of arbitrary shape and replicating them on a large scale for use in cellular studies. Multiphoton absorption polymerization (MAP), a two-photon lithographic technique, was used to design and fabricate the topographical features. Solvent-assisted nanotransfer molding allowed for the creation of a negative-relief mold made of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Replica molding, with this PDMS mold and a photocurable resin, can reproduce the original pattern made with MAP. The replica nanotopographies can be adapted to fit specific experimental requirements, including surface coating. The patterned films have been shown to be biocompatible. To demonstrate their use, we examined the cytoskeletal arrangement of MCF10A cells on one nanotopographical pattern.