In situ QCM-D study of nano-bio interfaces with enhanced biocompatibility

When biomaterials are implanted into an animal body, the body fluid proteins initially adsorb and then cells recognize these surfaces. Adherent cell functions respond differently to diverse biomaterial surfaces with different properties. Thus, an understanding of cellular responses to biomaterials is crucial for effective control of biomaterial - cell interactions. I have researched how to clarify interfacial phenomena via protein adsorption and subsequent cell adhesion to hydroxyapatite nanocrystals using a quartz crystal microbalance with a dissipation technique. In this review, I focused on the current understanding of enhanced biocompatibility by exploring the roles of protein mediation at the interface. The most promising nano-bio interfaces are explained, and different protein adsorption and cell adhesion processes are highlighted depending on their interfacial states. This approach will clarify several ambiguities of interfacial phenomena between biomaterials and cells and will help in the design of novel biomaterials that can be implanted.