Methods for cell culture using a synthetic defined collagen mimetic surface

Abstract

The present invention discloses methods for enhancing cell attachment, cell proliferation and cell function using a surface which mimics a collagen coated surface. Advantageously, such methods employ a xeno-free, synthetic, chemically defined surface.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61 / 420,860, filed December 8, 2010, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. technical field [0003] The present invention relates to methods for enhancing cell adhesion, proliferation and function using surfaces that mimic collagen-coated surfaces. More particularly, the invention relates to methods of utilizing xeno-free, synthetic surfaces. Background technique [0004] Cell culture models rely on the ability of cells to adhere, proliferate, and function in vitro in a manner comparable to in vivo. Specifically, various culture models utilize keratinocytes or hepatocytes to test compounds in vitro prior to in vivo application. For example, keratinocyte cultures are used to predict skin irritation and hepatocyte cultures are used to predict liver toxicity. The use of collagen-coated cell culture surfaces to support cell adhesi...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The use of collagen-coated cell culture surfaces to support cell adhesion and cell function is problematic because the collagen used for the coating is generally derived from human or other animal sources and thus often has poor certainty

Furthermore, the use of such collagens derived from humans or other animals can be extremely problematic in human therapeutic applications: an immunogenic reaction can arise which leads to the rejection of transplanted cells

Although isolated human collagen can be used to coat such surfaces, the associated costs are high and may still result in an immunogenic response

Also, as with recombinant collagen, different batches of isolated collagen may result in variability in cell culture due to variability in the contaminants present in it

Alternatively, variability in cell culture may also result from the self-encapsulation process itself, which is commonly used with both isolated and recombinant collagen

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