Interactions of cells with silk surfaces

Abstract

Polymers are often employed in tissue engineering to replace damaged extracellular matrix (ECM). During the last few decades silk proteins have been extensively investigated concerning their use as biopolymers for the generation of biocompatible, artificial scaffolds. Including the low or absence of immune-response and lack of cell toxicity, silk proteins present interesting properties useful for tissue engineering and organ repair. Since cell–matrix interactions define the behaviour of cells and posterior graft integration, this review is focused on the influence of surface properties of silk scaffolds (wettability, charge, elasticity and biodegradability) on the biological activity (adhesion, proliferation and/or migration) of cells cultured thereon. Further, it is highlighted how the origin of silk proteins (natural source, regenerated or recombinantly produced), as well as the scaffold morphology and its treatment/post-treatment influence the scaffold surface properties in the context of biomedical applications.