Surface functionalization and dynamics of polymeric cell culture substrates

The promise of growing tissues to replace or improve the function of failing ones, a practice often referred to as regenerative medicine, has been driven in recent years by the development of stem cells and cell lines. Stem cells are typically cultured outside the body to increase cell number or differentiate the cells into mature cell types. In order to maximize the regenerative potential of these cells, there is a need to understand cell–material interactions that direct cell behavior and cell–material dynamics. Most synthetic surfaces used for growth and differentiation of cells in the lab are impractical and cost prohibitive in clinical labs. This review focuses on the modification of low cost polymer substrates that are already widely used for cell culture so that they may be used to control and understand cell–material interactions. In addition, we discuss the ability of cells to exert dynamic control over the microenvironment leading to a more complex, less controlled surface.