Cell Adhesion and Interactions with Biomaterials

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Abstract
The related phenomena of biocompatibility and biodegradation are of major concern in the selection of synthetic polymers for use as implantable biomedical devices. These properties are largely determined by the consequences of the cellular interactions that occur at the polymer/tissue interface during inflammation. Using an in vivo cage implant system, in conjunction with surface analysis techniques, we have investigated the variation in the cellular events that occurred on a polyetherure-thaneurea and a cytotoxic polyvinyl chloride). Quantitative and qualitative information that describe the cellular response to polymer implantation will be presented. From the results, a chronological sequence has been established which suggests that the important events follow cellular adhesion, and include cell spreading over a polymer surface accompanied by lysosomal degranulation of the adherent cells.